#United States #Atlanta #Trade Secrets #EchoSpan #Medallia

EchoSpan Triumphs in Trade Secret Case Against Medallia

EchoSpan, a leading provider of 360-feedback and performance management solutions, has secured a major victory in its legal battle against Medallia, Inc. The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit recently ordered a district court to reinstate a jury verdict declaring that Medallia had willfully appropriated EchoSpan's trade secrets. This ruling comes after a lengthy dispute that began in 2021 when a Medallia director accessed EchoSpan's technology under false pretenses.

The legal conflicts stem from actions taken by a Medallia team who, after gaining access to EchoSpan's 360-feedback platform, used it as a basis to develop a competing product, described as a “lift-and-shift” operation. This strategy allowed Medallia to replicate EchoSpan's core technology, which they subsequently marketed to one of EchoSpan's notable clients.

In 2023, a federal jury reached a unanimous verdict, finding Medallia liable for trade-secret misappropriation. The jury awarded EchoSpan a total of $25.7 million, which comprised $11.7 million in compensatory damages and $14 million in punitive damages. However, tensions escalated when the trial court granted Medallia's motion for a judgment as a matter of law, claiming the jury did not have a solid foundation for the awarded damages.

On October 31, 2025, the Ninth Circuit overturned this decision, emphasizing that the jury did indeed possess ample justification to award damages to EchoSpan. This clear acknowledgment from the higher court reinforces the seriousness of Medallia's actions and emphasizes the integrity of the judicial process.

Reaction from EchoSpan CEO

Joe Vance, EchoSpan’s CEO, expressed satisfaction with the Ninth Circuit's ruling, stating, “This case was always about truth and integrity. A jury heard the evidence and unanimously concluded that Medallia stole EchoSpan's technology. Rather than accept that outcome and take responsibility, Medallia spent almost two years trying to avoid the consequences of its actions. We are grateful that the Ninth Circuit agreed with our view of the evidence. We think the truth is plain for everyone to see.”

This legal precedent not only signifies a triumph for EchoSpan but also underlines the importance of protecting intellectual property in today’s competitive landscape. With the Ninth Circuit now reinforcing the initial verdict, EchoSpan intends to pursue full enforcement of this reinstated judgment, ensuring that Medallia is held accountable for its misdeeds.

About EchoSpan

Founded over 20 years ago, EchoSpan specializes in providing innovative HR technology solutions focused on enhancing workplace performance and leadership capabilities. Their robust 360-feedback platform enables organizations worldwide to strengthen their management processes and drive employee development effectively.

As the industry watches closely, the implications of this case extend beyond just EchoSpan and Medallia, highlighting the critical importance of ethical practices in technology and business. With the legal victory firmly in hand, EchoSpan stands poised to reinforce its commitment to integrity and innovation while ensuring that justice prevails in the realm of trade secrets.