Ramblings from the Father of Twins

Have you heard the following from one of your staff members -

“I just bought a new computer, can I borrow the Office disk for at home??”

I try never to discourage anyone from checking out the software especially if they need it for home usage – in many cases it’s for school work when at home. In the process though, I always ask the question, what will you be using it for?? My reason for asking is related to the licensing agreement for the use of Microsoft Office for FCPS employees.

Fairfax County Public Schools owns the product and allows teachers to use it at home. Based on my understanding of the license and information listed here, any work created, edited or published with the FCPS copy of the software, FCPS maintains a potential ownership stake in the work as long as their software is used on your computer.

The above information always brings me back to my original question to the teacher or staff member, what will you be using it for? I understand that I can only provide the information. People are people – the choice is theirs, I just don’t want to be implicated in the potential consequences. As the Technology leader in my school, I strive to provide a complete picture so each person can make the best choice. I can only do my part. But my part also involves providing the details, for those teachers who question my question, on how to purchase a personal copy of the software without any legal kickbacks.

FCPS and Mr. Gates have negotiated an ultimate volume discount. The latest version of the Microsoft Office 2007 Professional Suite normally retails from $200 – $600 dollars. We have the option to buy our own licensed version for $59.98 plus shipping and handling. This is the best price I’ve ever seen and copyright issues will not apply because I own the version.

I’d pay $60 bucks anyday in order to avoid the additional costs associated with a copyright lawsuit. Me vs. FCPS or even Me vs. Microsoft – case closed before it even gets started.