> One can make money with free software also, but by adding value instead of > charging for the rigths over the binaries. > > "Added value" can be: > - Distribution packages (Disk/CD/DVD) > - Handbooks and documentation > - Commercial support (e.g. for those who bought the package/docs) > - Provide development for a donation (but the resulting code will be free) > - A piece of hardware that uses the free software > > Nobody will gain a monopoly on such an "added value", because the software > itself remains free. Nevertheless successful business around free software > has proven to work, especially in the "embedded systems" market. It > requires flexibility though. > > Even in the QL scene, selling "added value" for free software is not > impossible. E.g. the "QDOS Classic/Q60 Linux CD" sold well, although the > software was free and one could have also downloaded the contained pieces > at no charge. Also developers of free QL software have been given > donations. Such ideas came too faint and too late for the QL probably. > > Peter I don't always agree with what Peter says, but I think he makes his point well here. This is certainly food for thought.
I know myself having put most of my older programs onto my website for free download, I still get people asking for copies on disk or CD or for minor updates for their own needs for which they are willing to pay modest amounts. I must admit, I'm seeing both sides of the viewpoints presented here today. It will be very interesting to see how this dicussion develops. Dilwyn Jones _______________________________________________ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
