Software supplier breaks ranks over 'stiffing' claims

One software supplier has raised its head above the parapet to support calls for standard terms and conditions to appear in all software licences.

Amid a deafening silence from the major software vendors, Rod Plummer, corporate marketing manager of software metering specialist ABC Systems, has agreed that model contracts are the way forward for UK plc.

Plummer was responding to leaked details of a report due to be presented to parliamentary lobbyists, Eurim, next month. The author of the report, Geoff Petherick, who chairs Eurim's lobby group, will recommend that the UK software industry sets up a common code of practice to prevent businesses from being "stiffed" financially by terms and conditions they did not expect.

Plummer told silicon.com: "It is very difficult for businesses to cope with such a wide variety of software contracts. It would be a lot easier for network administrators and financial directors if all business software had the same terms and conditions."

ABC's Plummer warned it would not be an easy ride. He said: "We mustn't forget the strength of the US marketplace, and the fact that any agreements are going to need to be done internationally. For that reason, I think the most important problem that needs to be addressed is the need for strong leadership."

He added that most decisions on licensing were taken in Seattle by top software lawyers.

Petherick, who is also CEO of computer user group UKCMG, urged industry this side of the Atlantic to take action now. He said: "Step one is for the UK guys to get their house in order. It is feasible that international laws may eventually reach common ground on this, but that is a long way off."

Adobe, Computer Associates, IBM, Microsoft, Netscape and Sun were all unavailable for comment.