information, including business, scientific, technical, economic, or engineering information, and any [a] formula, design, prototype, pattern, plan, compilation, program device, program, code, device, method, technique, process, procedure, financial data, or list of actual or potential customers or suppliers, whether tangible or intangible and whether or how stored, compiled, or memorialized physically, electronically, graphically, photographically, or in writing if:

1) the information is the subject of efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to maintain its secrecy; and 2) the information derives independent economic value, actual or potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use.

• • First, identifying each trade secret it thinks it has (i.e., making a comprehensive list)
  • Second, brainstorming every step that could possibly be taken to protect the secrecy of each item on the list
  • Third, conferring with its attorney to discuss whether each item on the list may qualify as a trade secret, and whether the steps to protect it will likely be considered as satisfying the reasonable steps requirement.