> Well we have a simular agreement, that is emailed to them when they are > 'hired'. On the mud I run, VieMud, we have a very informal agreement, and will not use areas (we don't let anyone else submit code) if the builder does not feel that our views and position on the matter is fair.
> I was just wondering if anyone out their has delt with this before, and > maybe got a real conclution. In the past, we've had all sorts of issues with copyright and unsatisfied builders, and a rational voice along with pointing out that we have no problem how or what they do with their area, but part of the original agreement was that we could use it how we saw fit. In some cases we've removed the area entirely, in others we made some changes, and in others, the area was left exactly as it was. It really boils down to respect for one another. One thing that we are insistant on is that we will never distribute the zone without their specific permission. The entire blurb from our helpfile is below. As mentioned above, this has worked very well for us over the last ~10 years. --8<-- For those worried about copyright, VieMud's position on copyright with regards to areas is, and has always been: 1) Sole copyright belongs to the author of the zone. 2) The author gives VieMud a permenant license to use the submitted copy as we see fit. This includes modifying it or removing it at any time, but does not include the right to distribute it. 3) Under no circumstances does the author have the right to dictate the way the zone is used by VieMud. Conversely, VieMud claims no right to exclusivity. The author is free to give his or her work to any other mud, at his or her discretion. VieMud will never distribute the zone, and will refer any requests for same to the author, where the author's current contact information is known. 4) When the author submits the zone as complete, a copy will be made, and this copy will be given to the author. Any modifications made as per item #2 will remain in the game copy only, unless the author updates their own copy manually.
