Have you ever spent money on retail software only to discover it wasn’t what you expected? In some cases, retail marketing decisions come before content decisions. Because of this, too many retail programs are hidden behind glitzy, showy packaging, and users end up paying painfully higher prices for lower satisfaction. Selecting software based on advertising and packaging information can result in costly mistakes. How many times have you bought a fancy package and found it was not what you expected?

Now, there is an alternative. Shareware is a proven marketing and distribution concept where talented programmers and companies offer their programs directly to you, the end-user. Where else can novice or advanced computer users enjoy programs that meet their exact needs? Where else can you have a voice in the way a program is updated with additional features? Where else can you experience the latest breakthroughs in software development? Shareware gives you all this and more. The concept is simple: you enjoy commercial quality programs before you make your purchase.

Shareware programmers, like retail software publishers, retain all rights under copyright laws. They are confident enough in the quality of their programs that they share them with you for you to enjoy -- with no obligation -- before you buy. If a program does not meet your needs, simply delete it from your system.

Registering shareware has numerous benefits. Although every author has a different registration package, benefits may include:

* printed manuals

* updates

* direct support from the author

* source code

* additional features

Your support means talented authors are able to develop powerful updates and great new software titles. This is why shareware is also known as user-supported software -- you only support the software you find useful.