Is site layout copyrighted?

Because I'm a copy cat :)

[one_mind]

Hi,

I was wondering if it was against the law to completely clone the layout and functionality of a website but change the logos, wording of links, colour scheme and obviously content.

Is this ok or will it get me into trouble when my competitor finds out?

Thanks

[Rosalind]

If you change the logos and colour scheme, is it still recognisably the same layout? If so, then you may well get into trouble. But it all depends on how distinctive the layout is in the first place.

Lots of websites have a boxed layout, you see it all over the web and nobody can really claim copyright on such a common way of organising a site. But if the navigation is unusual, say in a recognisable cartwheel shape, you might get into trouble for copying it.

Whatever you do, don't use anyone else's graphics without permission. Apart from that, it's difficult to answer this question without seeing the site, because so many sites use fairly similar layouts anyway.

[one_mind]

Think ebay.

What if someone made an auction site with the same style of bidding, the same navigation, same layout exactly but just changed the colors, logos and writing.

Would ebay sue someone who did this?

Thanks

[BigDave]

Do you care if they sue, or do you care if they win the suit?

Are you using the same words that they are?

[engine]

Why not have site developed, or buy a template? That way you are not crossing the line.

[one_mind]

This is more of a learning experience for me because i am studying internet development at uni next year. I think i will just modify my site at the end so it looks a little different.

Cheers