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- Understanding the Shareware Concept:
-
- Shareware is not free software. Copyright laws apply to both
- shareware and "commercial" software, and the copyright holder retains
- all rights in the program. The term "shareware" refers to a try-before-
- you-buy method for distributing software. The author specifically
- grants the right to copy and distribute the evaluation version of the
- software, as long as no fee is charged. Where a copying fee is charged,
- certain restrictions may apply.
- Shareware distribution gives you the chance to try software before
- buying it. If you try a shareware program and continue using it, you
- are expected to register your use with the author. With registration,
- you receive a license to continue using the software. This may include
- a copy of the latest version of the program, technical support, and, if
- applicable, future upgrade notification and other services.
- Shareware authors are expert programmers, just like commercial
- authors, and the products are of comparable quality. (In both cases,
- you will find both good and bad programs!) The price of shareware is
- significantly lower than that of commercial software because of the
- method of distribution. When you pay for shareware, you pay for the
- software only, not for expensive advertising and fancy packages. With
- commercial software, you pay for the program before you try it, and you
- may get stuck with a product that does not suit your needs. With
- shareware, you pay for the software after you have found it to be
- useful.
- Shareware authors are paid for their work only when you register
- your use of their products. Your support keeps this system working and
- makes it possible for the authors to keep producing new and better
- products.
- The shareware concept is based entirely on the honor system, and
- generally works quite well. Most people are honest and will not violate
- the trust placed in them by the author of the software. The author
- counts on your integrity.
-
- About the ASP:
-
- The Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP) is an industry
- organization formed to strengthen the future of shareware. All ASP
- members subscribe to a code of ethics designed to ensure that users
- receive superior products and services. These policies work to the
- mutual benefit of authors, users, and vendors.
- For more information on the ASP, write to P.O. Box 5786, Bellevue,
- WA 98006, or visit the ASP forum on CompuServe (GO SHAREWARE at any CIS
- prompt).