It’s the hottest acronym banted about when talking about economic development.
Practically any discussion about new companies, new construction, new jobs, a pending business expansion or sale, and maybe even a new recipe and no doubt an NDA will be interjected into the conversation.
NDAs are not new, but the sudden proliferation of officials declining media comments because of an NDA is becoming an almost every day event.
A Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) is a legal contract to protect confidential information. This NDA is NOT to be confused with the acronym for the National Dental Association or the New Drug Application. NDAs are commonly executed with businesses and government officials in the area of economic development.
On the Mike and McCarty KEEL radio show today Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Blanchard Mayor Jim Galambos advised they had signed NDAs regarding a possible new data center for northwest Louisiana. A SWEPCO representative said the same and a major economic recruiter echoed a "no comment about potential projects."
The magic of the " I can't talk because of an NDA" is that it's a universal comment that can NOT be rebutted. It's the new business term that replaces the old "none of your beeswax" response to any inquiry. And as this term becomes more prevalent in the media including social media the NDA acronym can become an everyday excuse to keep a closed month.
In the business world having an “I signed an NDA" lapel pin is becoming a status symbol. Some executives who do not wear sports coats have opted to get an NDA wrist band to replace their worn out WWJD bracelet. And the best part is that no one can question the veracity of this disclaimer.
If a reader is feeling out with no NDA agreements on their computer or cell phone, contact the undersigned. Actually, this media person NEVER discloses sources of information, commonly referred to as "moles", and an NDA is not the protocol when getting scoops.
An NDA can quickly be provided at no cost and no obligation to provide info. This will certainly provide a good ice breaker at the next cocktail party--"Have you signed an NDA?"