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RBBSDOCS.28
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1990-11-05
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RBBS-PC, THE LARGEST SOFTWARE HOUSE IN THE WORLD 28-1
28. RBBS-PC, THE LARGEST SOFTWARE HOUSE IN THE WORLD
----------------------------------------------------
RBBS-PC'S "Userware" concept is founded on the principle stated in section
1.1 -- "software which is shared becomes better than it was." Relying on
Federal copyright protection, we believe that RBBS-PC's source code can be
distributed without the risk of "loss of ownership" (i.e. it becoming
"public domain"). We believe all software (commercial and non-commercial)
should be distributed as both compiled/executable files and with their
source code. With few exceptions, RBBS-PC's copyrights have never been
violated -- this is due more to the fact that RBBS-PC enthusiasts are
ever-vigilant of RBBS-PC's copyrights rather than due to any lack of
attempts to "sell" RBBS-PC or RBBS-PC look-alikes to the unsuspecting
public.
Incorporating these new features and ideas into each new release of
RBBS-PC, making sure that upward compatibility with earlier version of
RBBS-PC exists, as well as maintaining RBBS-PC's copyright, are all things
that the authors accept the responsibility for. However, it is RBBS-PC's
"support staff" (i.e. all those who enhance RBBS-PC and share such
enhancements) that continues to make RBBS-PC a unique experiment in PC
software.
No one should feel that the possibilities for RBBS-PC have even begun to be
exhausted. In fact, we are absolutely certain that even as this is written
innovative enhancements are being created for RBBS-PC. It is our sincerest
hope that if RBBS-PC continues to succeed within the IBM PC industry in
becoming the "bulletin-board standard," software vendors will begin
examining the reasons for RBBS-PC's success and come to understand that:
- The best form of software support is user support
- The best source for software enhancements are from it's users
- The best software continually adopts itself to users needs
- The best way to minimize software development is to distribute source
code.
Each RBBS-PC system operator has the opportunity to affect what RBBS-PC
becomes in the future. Many already have. RBBS-PC continues to grow and
expand because hundreds (and quite possibly thousands) of SysOps spend the
time and trouble not only to modify RBBS-PC to meet their needs, but also
to share these modifications with others. We do not know of any other
software for the IBM PC that has such a vast number of programmers
supporting it. In section 1.3, we name many such individuals and
acknowledge that there are a lot more! With the structured code that the
new BASIC compilers allow, even more RBBS-PC system operators are invited
to contribute. Take the time! Make the difference!