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		Association Francaise des Auteurs de Shareware



The author of this software is a member of the AFAS (Association
Franaise des Auteurs de Shareware), a french shareware authors'
association.  This means that the shareware version you are
evaluating adheres to a certain number of criteria concerning its
quality and its functionality.

AFAS members' software is not "demoware" (software with vital
functions missing);  The decision to produce only fully functioning
software results from awareness of the following points:

- The image of shareware deserves to be improved.
- Users should have the possibility of testing all the
  functions of a shareware program.
- Only fully functioning shareware has a future.

The initiative to create such a standard comes from the authors
themselves who are setting an example, its up to the distributors
and users to follow this example:

Distributors

By doing as many distributors have done from the beginning.  That is,
show a minimum of respect towards the authors' work (and at the same
time towards the users) by regularly updating their catalogues
especially when they receive new releases.
A distributor who respects the shareware system will also clearly
explain in his adverts and catalogues, that the programs he is selling
are only shareware versions and that the purpose of these programs is
for the user to try them to see if they meet his needs before purchasing
them directly from the author.


Users

Fortunately, there are users who pay the registration fees for the
software they use regularly.  However, it is not inaccurate to say that
the majority of users continue to use shareware programs beyond the trial
period.  If this phenomenon continues the outcome is easy to foresee:
Authors will stop improving their programs and the shareware market, even
if it doesn't disappear completely, will become a waste land full of
obsolete versions and demos whose only useful purpose is to fill the disks
of a few unscrupulous distributors.

Let's see if French users (and others too) will contribute to an expansion
of the French shareware industry similar to that of the American one.



The shareware principle:

The principle of shareware is very simple.  The user obtains a "shareware"
version (or evaluation copy) of the software from a distributor, usually
for the price of the disk plus handling charges, in order to evaluate it.

If the software meets the user's needs and he wishes to use it regularly,
he must register it with the author by paying the licence.

Registering shareware often allows the user to benefit from a certain
number of advantages, for instance:

- Receiving a version with additional features or options.
- A printed manual.
- Information and discounts on future versions.
- Technical support.




Advantages for the user:

He can test and evaluate the software before buying it, this eliminates
all risk of being disappointed.

Shareware is generally less expensive than commercial software.

He can easily get in touch with the authors to ask them questions or
request technical support.



Advantages for the distributor:

He often receives the software directly from the author and he can copy
and distribute this software without having to pay anything to the author.




Advantages for the author:

An author doesn't need to invest vast sums of money to promote and
distribute his programs.



It's easy to see that the shareware system can be qualified as an ideal one.
No other activity offers as many advantages. That's why everyone (authors,
distributors and users) should respect the rules.

It's easy for a user to use a shareware program for years without paying
for it. But in doing so he turns the system to his own benefit to the
detriment of shareware.

It's easy for a distributor to claim that he sells software at "very amazing"
prices, without mentioning the fact that the user is only buying the right
to use the software for evaluation purposes.  Once again turning the system
to his own benefit to the detriment of shareware.

It's also easy for an author to exploit the system by distributing very
limited versions which he qualifies as "shareware", tarnishing the image of
shareware to the detriment of the whole system.

Whether you are an author, a distributor, or a user, AFAS invites you to
respect the shareware system.  We strongly believe that it's the only way
for shareware to become a synonym of quality and reasonably priced software
for all.




AFAS members' software

In a few words, here are the rules respected by all AFAS members' programs.

All major functions are accessible.

Registration reminder screens are limited in number, non-aggressive and
can be by-passed with a single keystroke or mouse click.


The authors trust in your honesty and want you to be able to fully
evaluate their software.  Feel free to use these shareware programs,
but remember that shareware is not free and that it's only by paying
the licence that you will encourage the authors to enhance their products.




For more information about the AFAS please contact:

Anne Marie Beignatborde
AFAS
La Herrane
32800 Rans
FRANCE

Voice:     (33) 62 09 74 85
FidoNet    2:321/5
Internet:  afas@sunsnet.dedal.fr.net

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Translator: David Excoffier <AFAS>

Corrections:

John Trollope - John.Trollope@Team17.com
French translator and product localiser
Team17 Software, Ltd. - http://www.Team17.com
