alanf%smile@Sun.COM (Alan Fargusson) (07/22/88)
I wonder if someone could tell me the exact definition of "shareware". I kind of know what it is, but I would like a kind of 'legal' definition. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Alan Fargusson Sun Microsystems alanf@sun.com ..!sun!alanf
Robert_C_Tellefson@cup.portal.com (07/23/88)
Here's an explanation we send out with our Shareware product.
---- Questions and Answers about Shareware and the ASP ----
What is "SHAREWARE"?
"Shareware" is a term that describes a unique marketing approach for
software. Shareware, unlike its commercial counterparts, may be freely
copied and passed around. It may (and often is) distributed by
electronic bulletin boards (BBSs), computer clubs, and disk libraries.
The authors of the programs, however, retain all legal rights to the
software (a copyright). They also request that people who try their
software and decide to use it send a "registration fee" (which is
equivalent to purchasing the software).
Isn't it "Public Domain"?
NO! Public domain software has been released completely to the public,
and the author retains no legal rights. Shareware authors, on the other
hand, hold copyrights on their programs. Just as for commerical soft-
ware, the shareware programmer's software is protected by U.S. and inter-
national copyright law.
What do I get if I register?
Many shareware companies offer printed documentation, disks, and tele-
phone support as incentives for users to register their shareware. Some
companies also offer free updates and commissions. But the most important
benefit of registration is that you receive a legal license to continue
using the software.
Aren't registration payments voluntary?
No. While some authors indicate that payment is voluntary, their will-
ingness to give their software away does not infringe upon or modify the
rights of other authors. If a shareware program's documentation clearly
states that a registration payment is required for regular use, then you
are bound by law to register or stop using the program.
What is the Association of Shareware Professionals?
The Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP) is a non-profit organ-
ization incorporated in the state of Washington. It is made up of share-
ware authors nationwide who desire to see recognized standards estab-
lished for shareware programs and companies. The authors share a code of
ethics and have agreed to adhere to the ASP's standards for software and
documentation.
The ASP is also striving to help disk dealers, the media, and the public
to understand the nature and benefits of shareware. Through cooperation
and mutual standards, the ASP hopes to promote shareware as a viable
alternative to commercial software.
Bob Tellefson uucp: tellefson@cup.portal.com
RCT Design Compuserve: 73417,545
Genie: R.TELLEFSON
Voice: (408) 749-9826
USPS: 663 S. Bernardo #7
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Developers of:
JOBS - Job Organization and Backup System
Hard disk managament and DOS shell for the PC/XT/AT/PS2hal@slovax.WA.COM (hal) (01/17/90)
In general, I agree with Jef's (and others') feelings, but not necessarily their reactions. I (of course) have my own method of dealing with shareware authors. If I see 'shareware', I use the 'n' key. If it is something I would like to have, and I can't get it "PD", I write it from scratch myself. No hassles. (I also happen to be a member of the Bar, but all that does in this instance is keep me from the fray!) Hal Miller hal@slovax.wa.com