Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Path: utzoo!linus!decvax!tektronix!hplabs!sri-unix!W8SDZ@Simtel20.ARPA From: W8SDZ@Simtel20.ARPA Newsgroups: net.micro.cpm Subject: Query on usages of 'public-domain' software Message-ID: <748@sri-arpa.UUCP> Date: Sat, 4-Aug-84 16:03:00 EDT Article-I.D.: sri-arpa.748 Posted: Sat Aug 4 16:03:00 1984 Date-Received: Mon, 6-Aug-84 05:43:47 EDT Lines: 22 From: Keith PetersenYou may give away any of the public-domain programs without contacting the authors. It doesn't matter that these programs will be used for commercial applications UNLESS the program documentation specifically prohibits commercial use. Even then, unless it's copyrighted that doesn't mean anything. Public-Domain is Public-Domain - for ALL to use in any manner they deem fit. Public-Domain programs should not be sold for profit, but a "reasonable" charge can be made for copying and/or customization as required. The definition of "reasonable" is vague, but I'd say you should let your conscience be your guide. Charge only a small fee for copying and make your money on a per-hour labor charge for customization. Typical free-lance computer consultant fees are $25 to $50 per hour or "by the piece" if it will take too many hours to make using the "per-hour" charge practical. What you charge for an hourly fee will be decided by what the traffic will bear and by what value you place on your time. Don't under-sell yourself and don't forget your overhead costs, such as disks, computer time, travel, phone calls, overtime, etc. --Keith