As a software developer, it is important that the ownership of the programs you develop for clients is clearly outlined. Make sure that your client only gets what they pay for with your software. For example, a well written contract will determine whether the client receiving the software has distribution rights to the software, or if they only have a license to use the programs.
If the client you wrote the software program only has user rights, but decides to try and distribute your software for profit, you only have legal recourse if the ownership rights to the software were clearly defined in the contract. Having a well written software development agreement is one of the most important steps that you can take as a developer to protect your work from being freely distributed without your permission.
For tips on creating or revising your software development agreements, visit the
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Print | posted on Monday, July 20, 2009 12:35 PM