Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying it. If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you are expected to register. Individual programs differ in detail -- some request registration while others require it, some specify a maximum trial period. With registration, you get anything from the simple right to continue using the software to an updated program with printed manual.
Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software, and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific exceptions as stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just like commercial programmers, and the programs are of comparable quality. (in both cases there are good programs and bad ones!) The main difference is in the method of distribution. The author specifically grants the right to copy and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a specific group. For example, some authors require written permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy their Shareware.
Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You should find software that suits you needs and pocketbook, whether it's commercial or Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier, because you can try before you buy. And because the overhead is low, prices are low also. Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use the product, you don't pay for it.
DISCLAIMER - AGREEMENT
Users of this Global Majic Software, Inc. (GMS) custom control must accept this disclaimer of warranty: "this GMS custom control is supplied as is. The author disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose. The author assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of this GMS custom control."
This GMS custom control is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to the user for evaluation. Feel free to share it with your friends, but please do not give it away altered or as part of another system. The essence of "user-supported" software is to provide personal computer users with quality software without high prices, and yet to provide incentive for programmers to continue to develop new products. If you find this program useful and find that you are using this GMS custom control and continue to use this GMS custom control after a reasonable trial period, you must make a registration payment to Global Majic Software, Inc. The registration fee will license one copy for use on any one computer at any one time. You must treat this software just like a book. An example is that this software may be used by any number of people and may be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as there is no possibility of it being used at one location while it's being used by another. Just as a book cannot be read by two different persons at the same time.
Commercial users of this GMS custom control must register and pay for their copies of this GMS custom control within 30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn. Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting Global Majic Software, Inc. Anyone distributing this GMS custom control for any kind of remuneration must first contact Global Majic Software, Inc. at the address below for authorization.
You are encouraged to pass a copy of this GMS custom control along to your friends for evaluation. Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that they can use it. All registered users will receive a copy of the latest version of this GMS custom control.
