People often view proprietary information as what type of asset?

Proprietary information is considered a trade secret because it encompasses confidential business information that provides a company with a competitive advantage. This type of asset is not publicly known and is actively protected through various means such as non-disclosure agreements and legal actions. A trade secret can include formulas, practices, processes, designs, instruments, or patterns that are kept secret to maintain the uniqueness and competitiveness of the product or service.

In contrast, publicly accessible knowledge, as mentioned in one of the incorrect options, refers to information that anyone can acquire without restrictions, which directly contradicts the very nature of proprietary information. Similarly, a collaborative tool implies shared resources and transparency, whereas proprietary information is inherently exclusive and confidential. Lastly, regulatory data typically pertains to information needed for compliance with laws and regulations, distinct from proprietary information that is focused on a company's internal strategies and competitive position.