Copyright: Copyright® 1993 ZiffNet


Contents
Volume 1, Issue 2 - September, 1993

© Copyright 1993 Ziff Desktop Information, All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to the second issue of the ZiffNet Monthly Shareware Review, dedicated to bringing you the latest news about downloadable software available on ZiffNet. It features in-depth reviews and updated information on the newest and most popular shareware programs available. A special feature of this issue is a roundtable discussion on Crippleware hosted by Preston Gralla featuring comments from many shareware professionals. Check out this discussion as well as Preston's opinion column to read many viewpoints on this controversial subject. In addition, Adobe is offering the full commercial version of the Acrobat Reader for free to ZiffNet/CompuServe members through September 18. Although the reader is free, normal connect time rates still apply for the download. Simply GO ZNT:ACROBAT for full details.

 For Information on how to download programs from ZiffNet, click here:   What is ZiffNet?

In This Issue:

 Special Bulletin: Free Peek Week

 About ZiffNet Shareware Review

 Newest Titles

 Reviews

 Top 10 Downloads

 Author Spotlight: Joe Ahlgren

 Opinion Column: Crippleware

 Round Table Discussion: Crippleware

 This Month's Shareware Tips


About ZMSR
ZiffNet Monthly Shareware Review

The ZiffNet Monthly Shareware Review is a publication of ZiffNet/ZDI.
© Copyright 1993 Ziff Desktop Information, All Rights Reserved.

Editor: Scott Arpajian (ZiffNet/CIS ID: 72241,1517  ZiffNet/PRODIGY: VMDH31A)
ZiffNet Executive Editor: Craig Kerwien
ZiffNet Software Manager: Reed Butler

Copy Editor: Paula Lovejoy

Review Staff: Dave Burton, Jim Edwards, Dick Mathes, Al Thompson, Marcia Meier, Joyce Mosier.


Newest Titles
The Newest Additions to Our Library

Below are listings of some of the newest files available for downloading on ZiffNet for CompuServe. ZiffNet for PRODIGY members can always find up to date lists of Newest Titles right on the service by selecting "Newest Titles" from the ZiffNet Software menu.

Downloading from ZiffNet

ZiffNet Originals

GATES DOES WINDOWS (GDW.ZIP)
ZiffNet Software Library (GO ZNT:SOFTLIB)
An exclusive ZiffNet Windows screen saver featuring the Microsoft CEO.

PC MAGAZINE VOLUME ARCHIVE, NO. 16 (V12N16.ZIP)
ZiffNet Software Library (GO ZNT:SOFTLIB)
A complete archive of all the PC Magazine utilities from Volume 12, Issue 16.

PC MAGAZINE VOLUME ARCHIVE, NO. 15 (V12N15.ZIP)
ZiffNet Software Library (GO ZNT:SOFTLIB)
A complete archive of all the PC Magazine utilities from Volume 12, Issue 15.

Windows Applications

ADOBE ACROBAT READER

GO ACROBAT

Adobe offers their popular reader for free in this ZiffNet exclusive through Sept. 18 only.

ADOBE ACROBAT DOCUMENTS (.PDF)

Executives Online, Library 8

A collection of Acrobat .PDF files for use with the Acrobat Reader.

KURV+ FOR WINDOWS v2.1 (KURVWI.ZIP)
PBS Arcade, Library 9
CMath program with curve fitting, geometry, and trigonometry.

SCHEDULING EMPLOYEES v2.01 (SEW.ZIP)
PBS Applications, Library 9
Schedule your employees.  Has time, wage, and graph displays.

WIZ MANAGER  (WIZMGR.ZIP)
PBS Applications, Library 4
Windows File Manager add-on with color, printing directories and trees, and launch menus.

DRAG & VIEW v2.0  (DRAGVU.ZIP)
PBS Applications, Library 4
This Windows file viewer supports many formats, including text, databases and spreadsheets.

ALMANAC v3.0h  (ALMANC.ZIP)
PBS Applications, Library 7
Appointments, to-do list, holidays, events, and Jewish calendar.

DISK FACTORY v1.0 (DISKFC.ZIP)
PBS Applications, Library 4
A multi-tasking diskette copy, compare and format utility.

DOS Applications

TASK MASTER V 2.4C (TMSTR.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 10

Project management program.  Keep track of all project, assignments, and tasks.

NEWSHOW PRO V2.0 (NSPRO.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 8

Presentation slide show program.

X-CAL3 V3.10 NETWORK CALENDAR (XCAL3.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 12

Workgroup calendar/scheduling program for network use.

X-CON3 V1.30 NETWORK CONTACTS MANAGER (XCON3.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 6

Contact Manager for LAN.

NONLIN V2.4 REGRESSION ANALYSIS (NONLIN.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 9

Regression analysis on linear, multivariate, polynomial, and general nonlinear functions.

Archive Shells

WINZIP V4.1 (WINZIP.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 4

A menu-driven ZIP file manager that suppors ZIP, ARC, LZH, and ARJ formats.

QUINZIP V2.2 (QUINZP.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 4

A ZIP compatible compression utility that supports drag & drop.

DRAG AND ZIP V2.41 (DRAGZP.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 4

ZIP shell for Windows File Manager supporting Drag and Drop.

ARCMASTER V9.5 (ARCMST.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 3

Compress, decompress, convert, view, and scan archives with this shell.

SHEZ V9.2a (SHZ92A.ZIP)

PBS Applications, Library 1

The premier DOS compression shell now with flexible printing support.

Windows Entertainment

CASTLE OF THE WINDS V1.1A (CASTLW.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 4

Adventure game: find the mysterious secret of your past; if the monsters don't stop you.

CROSS WORDS DELUXE V1.0 (CWDLUX.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 4

Solve, print, and save cross word puzzles.

SIEGE! FOR WINDOWS V1.1 (WSIEGE.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 4

Strategy board game to control the most territory; play against computer or over modem or network.

DOS Entertainment

MONSTER BASH V2.1 (BASH.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 3

Johnny Dash must rescue his dog Tex, equipped just with his slingshot.

ULTIMATE BLACKJACK V1.1 (ULTBJ.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 3

Animated graphic blackjack with one to five players.  Includes variable bets, statistics, and tutor.

BASEBALL TRIVIA (BASTRI.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 5

Game with easy to tough baseball triva questions.

PRO FOOTBALL EDGE! V2.0 (PROFED.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 5

Attractive pro football handicapping program with statistics back to 1981.

ESPTEST V1.0 (ESPTST.ZIP)

PBS Arcade, Library 5

Test your precognition and clairvoyance.


How To Download
How To Download from ZiffNet

If you are a ZiffNet member on CompuServe or PRODIGY, you can easily download all of the programs mentioned in this publication.  If you're not already a ZiffNet subscriber, you can find out how to join by selecting "Becoming a ZiffNet Subscriber" below:

Becoming a ZiffNet Subscriber

ZiffNet/CompuServe

All of the programs mentioned in the ZiffNet Monthly Shareware Review are available directly from our Software Library (GO ZNT:SOFTLIB) or in one of the Public Brand Software Forums, PBS Arcade (GO PBSARC) and PBS Applications (GO PBSAPP).  The correct forum is indicated in each program highlight, along with the specific library in which it can be found.

ZiffNet/PRODIGY

All of the programs can also be found on the ZiffNet for PRODIGY service.  Simply [JUMP]: ziffnet and select "Software" from the menu.  Then perform a Search by Title for the program you're interested in.


Become a Subscriber
Become a ZiffNet Subscriber

Anyone with a modem and communications software can discover everything ZiffNet offers for themselves.  It's easy!  CompuServe members can simply type GO ZIFFNET.  If you're not currently a CompuServe member, just follow these easy steps:

1. Set your communications software to seven data bits, even parity, one stop bit.  Select a data transfer rate (bits per second) of 1200, 2400 or 9600 baud.  Have your modem call the local ZiffNet number.  (To find your local ZiffNet number: By modem, dial 800-346-3247 and at the User ID prompt type PHONES; By voice, dial 800-635-6225.)

2. Respond to the prompts by entering the information below:

When you connect: Press CTRL+C

Host Name: CIS
User ID: 177000,5555
Password: ZIFF*NET
Agreement Number: SREVIEW

3. Register your name and credit card number for billing.

You'll receive your permanent User ID and temporary Password online.  Write them down and use them to log on.  You'll receive your permanent Password within 10 days, as confirmation of your new ZiffNet membership.


Top10 Lists
PKZip Holds Steady

Although it was released over six months ago, version 2.04g of the PKZip utility package continues to be the top download from ZiffNet. Recently, ZiffNet announced that all of the downloadable software will be converted to the new 2.04g format to cut down on transfer times for our members. This conversion process will begin on October 1, so now is a great time to make sure you are running the latest version of PKZip. Also of note is the appearance of Time & Chaos (reviewed in last month's edition) in the number 5 spot of the Applications Top 10.

Rank	Prev.	Program	Filename/Location
1	1	PKZip	PK204G.EXE
		Compression Tool	PBS Applications, Library 3
2	3	HomePlan	HOMEPL.ZIP
		Design the interior layout of your house	PBS Applications, Library 8
3	2	WinZip	WINZIP.ZIP
		Windows Zip Front End	PBS Applications, Library 1
4	4	NeoPaint	NPNT1.ZIP, NPNT2.ZIP
		Full-featured paint program for DOS	PBS Applications, Library 8
5	-	Time & Chaos	TCHAOS.ZIP
		Windows Personal Information Manager	PBS Applications, Library 7
6	6	Paint Shop Pro	PSPRO.ZIP
		Image editing program for Windows	PBS Applications, Library 8
7	9	WinPost	WINPST.ZIP
		Post-It Notes for Windows	PBS Applications, Library 7
8	10	Drag & View	DRAGVW.ZIP
		Drag & Drop file viewing in Windows	PBS Applications, Library 7
9	7	Zip Key	ZIPKEY.ZIP
		Quick Zip Code look-up database	PBS Applications, Library 9
10	5	Secrets of Credit Repair	CREDIT.ZIP
		Hints for repairing your credit rating	PBS Applications, Library 6
Rank	Prev	Program	Filename/Location
1	2	Ken's Labyrinth	KENLAB.ZIP
		Underground 3D action	PBS Arcade, Library 3
2	1	DeathWatch	DWATCH.ZIP
		3D Fantasy role-playing adventure	PBS Arcade, Library 3
3	6	After Dark Screen Savers	ADMODS.ZIP
		Bungee Jumping Cows!	PBS Arcade, Library 8
4	3	Jill of the Jungle	JILL.ZIP
		Action/adventure in the jungle	PBS Arcade, Library 3
5	4	Monster Bash	BASH.ZIP
		Spooky arcade game	PBS Arcade, Library 3
6	8	AquaMan	AQUAMN.ZIP
		Underwater adventures	PBS Arcade, Library 3
7	-	Bio Menace	BIOMEN.ZIP
		Fast-paced action arcade game	PBS Arcade, Library 3
8	7	StarFire	STARFI.ZIP
		Space Age shoot-em-up	PBS Arcade, Library 1
9	5	Commander Keen	KEEN.ZIP
		Epic real-time adventure game	PBS Arcade, Library 3
10	9	Major Stryker	1MAJOR.ZIP
		3D parallax scrolling arcade game	PBS Arcade, Library 3

About the ZiffNet Top 10 Lists

The ZiffNet Top 10 lists are compiled monthly and are calculated using download statistics from both ZiffNet and ZiffNet for PRODIGY. You can download the top 10 files each month by searching for them individually or by browsing the Top 10 Special Collection found on both services.


Reviews
Games People Play

Although computers are primarily used for crunching numbers and processing data, the role of a computer as a source of diversion and fun is always growing. This month, we've put ourselves through the grueling torture of playing and reviewing several shareware games, all of which are available for downloading in the ZiffNet libraries.

About the Ratings

Reviewed by Scott Arpajian

Metro City has been destroyed by the mutant henchmen of the sinister Dr. Mangle.  As CIA agent Snake Logan, your mission is to rescue the few surviving hostages and hunt down the elusive mad scientist.  A seemingly endless supply of weapons is at your disposal in this fast-paced, "shoot everything that moves" adventure.

Bio Menace, the latest release from Apogee, is a welcome addition to the shareware gaming world, especially for fans of Apogee's earlier game, Duke Nukem.  It's a classic arcade game with plenty of bad guys, extra weapons, secret levels and bizarre monsters to keep even the most demanding gamer happy.

Of course, whenever your bring mutants and hand grenades into the same setting, there's bound to be a high level of violence.  Bio Menace is definitely not for the younger crowd.

Bio Menace definitely delivers in the action arena.  There's a lot of mutants to fight, and they're armed to the teeth (literally).  The Adlib/SoundBlaster soundtrack is top-notch, and the sound effects are nothing short of amazing.  As Apogee promises, "you just have to hear the machine gun blast."

This game is also challenging, and definitely not easy to conquer.  Apogee has made things a little easier by providing an "instant save" feature (just press F7 anytime). Should you meet an untimely demise, there are "beacons" that allow you to return to the game in the middle of the action (as opposed to starting over from the beginning of a level).  There are also plenty of items scattered throughout the game, such as "hearts" and first-aid kits, which allow Snake Logan to recoup some of the strength he has lost along the way.

Registering Bio Menace gets you the full game trilogy, special secret cheat codes, and a hints and tricks file.  The registration fee is $29.95 + shipping and handling, making Bio Menace an excellent value for the entertainment it provides.

Program Info: Bio Menace

Reviewed by Scott Arpajian

In a secret world, deep inside your computer, a terrible tragedy has struck. The life-giving Oxyds, which supply this world with vital oxygen, have all been mysteriously closed. Without the oxygen, this secret world will suffocate. It is up to you to open the Oxyds and save the world.

The biggest hurdle to this intriguing game is figuring out the object. Once you're armed with that fairly important knowledge, you're all set to explore one of the most stimulating and animated games in shareware.

Essentially, you control a black marble with the mouse, navigating it over several different landscapes.  Each landscape contains Oxyds, which must be open. There are several obstacles to impede your path, as well as tools that must be used to aid your mission.

In many ways, Oxyd resembles the classic memory game Concentration.  When you open an Oxyd, a special color pattern is revealed. If the patterns match when you open a second Oxyd, the two remain open. If the patterns do not match, both Oxyds close, and you must try again. Oxyds can be opened in several ways, depending on the situation. For instance, one landscape requires you to indirectly open the Oxyds by manipulating a laser beam and a mirror.  Some landscapes contain hidden passageways, swamps, ice slicks, and other obstacles.

The sound effects are excellent, adding to the realism of the game. And the graphics are smooth, especially on a fast (486 processor) computer.

You can also play a "linked" game with a friend via modem. In this special version of the game, several landscapes require coordinated efforts by the two players to open all of the Oxyds.

One important warning: Oxyd is not completely compatible with the EMM386 memory manager.  If you are using the "NOEMS" switch when you load EMM386.EXE in your CONFIG.SYS, you will not be able to run Oxyd. To correct this problem, the program documentation suggests that you change the setting from "NOEMS" to "16." As always, we recommend that you back up your CONFIG.SYS file before making any changes.

Program Info: Oxyd

Reviewed by Scott Arpajian

This enticing arcade puzzle game, reminiscent of the classic Tetris, will keep you playing for hours.  Billed as a "thinking" arcade game, it features 112 levels of puzzles in which the object is to eliminate colored bricks by uniting them, causing them to explode.  It's not as easy as it sounds, because along the way there are plenty of obstacles to deal with, including laser beams, elevators, boiling acid, anti-gravity and teleporters.  Although the first few levels are relatively easy, getting through to level 112 may very well be a feat of Herculean proportions. Fortunately, Epic Megagames has seen fit to follow the Nintendo tradition of supplying "secret codes" for the different levels.  If you're forced to take a break from the game due to annoyances such as work, meals, family obligations, or natural disasters, you can easily start again right where you left off.

 Brix is deceptively simple in concept, but quickly becomes a thought-provoking experience.  Connecting two colored bricks with the keyboard seems easy, but try doing it through use of a random teleporter while you're dodging laser beams. There's also an unforgiving countdown timer that keeps things really interesting. And of course, what's a mind-game these days if it doesn't feature a gut-wrenching SoundBlaster soundtrack to provide challenging distraction?

With full 256-color support, the programmers have also managed to make a game that essentially revolves around ugly square blocks look interesting.  Add in the depth of puzzles and the intangible quality of addiction, and you've got a game that will keeping you busy for days.  As if that weren't enough, the $30 registration fee gets you Brix II Deluxe, which includes 112 additional levels, a level editor, and a level solver.

If you're looking for a computer game that goes beyond the standard "shoot and kill" motif and provides rewarding intellectual challenge, but you still want excitement, color and sound, Brix is definitely the program to check out.

Program Info: Brix

Reviewed by Marcia Meier

Crosswords Deluxe version 1.0, a shareware program from Strategic Solutions, allows you to solve crossword puzzles on your computer. The application uses special puzzle books prepared by Strategic Solutions. There are 25 puzzles in the shareware version, 100 puzzles in the registered version. There are easy, standard, challenging and mixed puzzles. You pick the level that's best for you.

As puzzles are solved, your work is automatically saved to disk and you can save a puzzle to resume working on it later. Or, if you prefer,  the puzzles can be printed up to four per page, with your work in progress.

With Crosswords Deluxe you can peek at a single word without "accidentally" seeing another word, which is often the case with paper versions. You can have the computer show you which are incorrect answers, perfectly invaluable for those not liking to retrace their steps. The BIG advantage is the clue assistance. You fill out the puzzles by moving around and typing. The clue is both the Across and Down words are highlighted. In the "show all clues" mode, you can click the mouse on the clue to locate the word in the puzzle. This eliminates the need to scan back and forth between the puzzle and the clues.

You can toggle the word cursor between the Across word and a Down word and click the mouse button anywhere in the window. In Crosswords Deluxe the cursor automatically moves to the next word to be completed. You can show all clues or just one clue. The print option lets you print just one puzzle -- one, two or four per page; or you can print the entire collection.

Here the real job is the sheer fun of it. Playing a crossword on your computer for relaxation is built into Crosswords Deluxe. It is not only fun but also solvable!

Program Info: Crosswords Deluxe

Reviewed by Scott Arpajian

Take yourself back to medieval times with a Windows board game that challenges your powers of strategy to capture land from your opponent. By guarding your territory with garrisons, forts, and castles, you can defend your position and weaken your opponent. You have a set number of turns and a limited playing field, so clever planning and guesswork is necessary.

Siege! for Windows seems to be a simple adaptation of the traditional "territory control" style board game, but it adds a feature specific to computer games: artificial intelligence. Computer-controlled players learn from each game, improving to the point of invincibility. After playing a few games with the same computer opponent, you'll see how quickly it learns from its mistakes. A fun experiment is to set up several simple tournaments between different computer players, and see who prevails.

Of course, Siege! also supports two-player human games, either at the same machine, or over a network or modem. Complete instructions are provided on setting up a game for two players.

The rules for Siege! are very basic. Each type of fortification exerts a certain amount of influence over the areas surrounding it. Whichever player exerts the most influence over a territorial square controls it. The goal is to control the most squares at the end of a pre-determined number of turns. The game quickly becomes a medieval arms race, as both players struggle to build up fortifications and capture enemy territory.

Although Siege! is a simple game, and the graphics aren't much to get excited about, it does boast the important feature of artificial intelligence.  In many games that feature a computer opponent, it is often easy to learn how to beat that opponent on a regular basis.  The game quickly becomes boring.  But in Siege! your computer opponents learn and improve their play just as quickly as you do.  You will always be able to find an opponent to play at your skill level, providing endless challenge.

Program Info: Siege


Bio Menace

Hot New Shoot-'Em-Up from Apogee

#1BIO.ZIP - PBS Arcade, Library 3 (DOS Games)

A fast-paced, "shoot everything that moves" adventure. As a CIA agent, you must rescue Metro City from the mutant army of Dr. Mangle. Uses many high powered weapons and watch the guts fly! 11 levels of play with game save. Cover the city and buildings with many secret areas to discover. Auto configure feature and amazingly low memory requirements. Auto senses CGA, EGA, VGA modes Joystick #1 and #2, Adlib or Soundblaster or PC speaker. Version 1.0. Shareware, $25 registration, 629649 bytes.


Oxyd

An Esoteric Strategy Game

OXYD.ZIP - ZiffNet Software Library (GO ZNT:SOFTLIB)

A detailed arcade game like Concentration, where you must open all the matching "Oxyds" to advance a level. Several obstacles, including deep chasms, laser beams, and ice slicks make the game challening. Oxyd supports "link mode" where two players can play in a cooperative fashion. Realistic sound. Version 3.9. Bannerware, 1079874 bytes.


Brix

Challenging Arcade Puzzle Game

BRIX.ZIP - ZiffNet Software Library (GO ZNT:SOFTLIB)

In this arcade puzzle game the goal is to eliminate all of the bricks by uniting them, which causes them to explode. The play of this game is similar to the classic arcade game "Tetris", but the puzzles are much more complex.  In addition, there are plenty of obstacles, including lasers, elevators, boiling acid, anti-gravity and teleporters that make each of Brix's 112 levels chellenging. It can be played by 1 or 2 players, and has various difficulty levels. Supports SoundBlaster cards.  Requires VGA, 512k RAM, a 286 processor or better, a hard drive, and DOS 3.0 or higher. Shareware, $30 registration, 309945 bytes.


Siege
Siege! for Windows

Strategy Board Game

WSIEGE.ZIP - PBS Arcade, Library 4 (Windows Games)

Siege! is a strategy board game. Your object is to control the most territory after a set number of turns. You can play against the computer or another person (even over a modem!). It is network compatible. Version 1.1. Shareware, $20 registration, 214142 bytes.


Crosswords Deluxe

Strategy Board Game

CWDLUX.ZIP - PBS Arcade, Library 4 (Windows Games)

Requires Windows 3.1. Solve crossword puzzles. You can save puzzles, check for correct answers or solve the puzzle word by word or in its entirety. You can also print out the puzzles. This program comes with 25 puzzles--the best part being they are solveable! Ver. 1.0. Shareware $20 registration, 203107 bytes.


Monthly Tips
Windows Tools

This month's shareware tip focuses on the program Paint Shop Pro, from JASC, Inc. John Taschek tells you how to create your own Windows start-up screen using this versatile program. Paint Shop Pro has recently been updated to version 2.0, and is available on ZiffNet as PSPRO.ZIP in the PBS Applications Library.

Paint Shop Pro

by John Taschek, ZiffNet

Paint Shop Pro is so slick that you might be tempted to throw away Windows Paintbrush as your graphics package. But instead of replacing the windows accessory, PSPRO complements it as well as any other graphics package.

If you use Windows and need to convert files or snap a shot of your screen, you need PSPRO, even if you only do it once. PSPRO can handle more file formats than most high-priced graphics conversion packages, as well as take screen shots of an entire image or a selected area. Not impressed? Try adjusting the color saturation of a graphic or bumping its resolution up to 16 million colors even if you've got plain VGA.

Setting up Paint Shop is a snap--just run PSP.EXE from the File menu. You'll soon find it so useful that you'll want to add it to your Windows accessories group. To do that, open the group, then select File, New from the Program Manager menu, and make sure New Item is checked. In the Description box, enter Paint Shop Pro, press the tab key, and enter the command line that starts PSPRO (probably C:\PSPRO\PSP.EXE. If you don't know the command line, click Browse and search through your disk drive to find it. Once you find it, click OK, make sure it's in the command line dialog, and click OK again to close the box.

Create Your Own Windows Startup Screen

Now the good part. PSPRO throws in RLE as 1 of its dozen graphics converters. RLE stands for Run-Length Encoded, but more importantly it is the format Windows uses for its startup screen. It's easy to create your own customized version of this screen with PSPRO.

First, copy the file VGALOGO.RLE, located in your WINDOWS\SYSTEM directory to VGALOGO.BAK. Then open Paint Shop Pro and open VGALOGO.RLE. Without editing the file, select File, Save As. In the appearing dialog box, click BMP--Windows--RGB Encoded. Make sure you use RGB instead of RLE, because Paintbrush can't handle RLE files.

Use Paintbrush's drawing tools to spiff up your logo. Use the text tool to add your name, if you like, then save the file. Open the new file in PSPRO, and select Save As, this time selecting RLE as the file format. After saving the file in your Windows SYSTEM directory, exit Windows and go to a DOS prompt. Change directories to your Windows directory and copy WIN.COM to WINCOM.BAK, then run SETUP. Select the video box, and write down its contents, then change it to something else (it could be anything), and hit Enter. Without leaving the SETUP screen, change your video back to its original setting the same way, and press Enter. Exit Setup, and it will create a new WIN.COM, the file that starts Windows, along with the new logo. Start Windows again, and it'll appear on your screen. If it doesn't, copy WINCOM.BAK to WIN.COM and start over.

Paint Shop offers much more than file conversions, though it's probably the best in the business at doing that. PSPRO also includes a sophisticated screen capture utility. Want to capture an image on your screen? How about part of an image? Not many packages offer this ability, but PSPRO flourishes at it.

To capture part of an image, select Capture, Area. Unless you want to capture part of the PSPRO screen, click Hide It, in the resulting dialog box. Use only the keyboard to select the

application you want to capture from. For example, if you want to capture the Button Bar in Word for Windows, press Ctrl-Esc to open the Task List and select Switch To if it's already running. If it's not running, you'll have to use the keyboard to select the program icon, and press Enter to run it.

Next, drag the area you want to capture. If you want to capture the button bar, position your mouse above the button bar, and drag the outline frame around the area you want to capture. A

size box indicates how big, in pixels, the image is. When you release the mouse, PSPRO automatically inserts it into the editing screen.

Now you can experiment with the tools PSPRO includes. The Image menu offers tools to change the basic shape of the graphic, such as resize, mirror, and rotate. The Color menu offers more sophisticated editing capabilities, featuring items, like Adjust RGB, and Gamma Correct.

Adjusting RGB (or Red Green Blue) allows you to adjust the colors of an entire graphic. To increase the red tone, for example, drag the red slide bar toward 100 %, or full saturation. Gamma Correct is an important feature, but only if you open an image that was scanned in or brought in from another source (such as downloading it from PRODIGY). When a graphic is created, the image is set to the monitor of where it was created. Gamma Correct offers a way to take that image and set it to yours. The default setting should be adequate, but experiment to get the best quality image.  Most of these features are nowhere to be found on higher-priced graphics packages. If you want 1 of the best and most useful of these packages, give Paint Shop Pro a shot. It's fast, doesn't take a lot of memory, and gives you more bang for the buck.

Program Info: Paint Shop Pro


Paint Shop Pro

Versatile Graphics Conversion and Capture Tool

PSPRO.ZIP - PBS Applications, Library 8 (Graphics)

Paint Shop Pro allows you to capture the screen, and has image manipulation and file conversion capability. It can be hidden or an icon, and a captured screen can be saved to any of the supported file formats. Functions include trim, resize, resample, filter, color adjust, contrast adjust and grayscaling. Requires Microsoft Windows 3.1. Version 2.0. Shareware, $69 registration, 613977 bytes.


Featured Author
Joe Ahlgren

Author of  "GeoClock"

Name

Joe Ahlgren

Computer System

Northgate 486 with 1.6GB disk (map databases are big!), CD-ROM, DAT.

Favorite Text Editor

SideKick 1.5, BINGO.

Language/Compiler of Choice

Turbo Pascal 5.0, Turbo C 2.0, TASM 2.0.

Programming Hours

Whenever I'm inspired, but especially after a long bicycle ride.

Favorite Programming Snack

Crackers and Diet Pepsi with lemon juice added.

Marital Status

Single

Last Non-Computer Book Read

"The God Particle" by Leon Lederman.

Other Hobbies/Interests

Bicycling, Classical Music, City Walking, keeping up with science.

Favorite Pizza Topping

Pineapple & Jalapeno peppers. (Try it!)

Joe has always been a bit of a map nut, ever since the time he got lost in his new high school until he saw the floor plan. He pursued maps as a hobby for many years, and when PC technology enabled him to actually do creative work, he really got interested. In late 1987 he released the shareware EGA version of GeoClock, which has been updated and upgraded regularly.

He was sponsored by the Surveyor General of Queensland, Australia, to give a series of lectures on PC mapping in Queensland in late 1988; for Joe, that trip was more than he had ever hoped for as a reward for his efforts with GeoClock. But in 1991 when an article about GeoClock appeared in the New York Times, he immediately quit his "real job" and pursued map applications full time. Currently, in addition to GeoClock, Joe has a spinning globe program (GeoGlobe), and a version of GeoClock called WorldClock that has been incorporated into two commercial products.

GeoClock 5.0:

GeoClock shows the current time (based on your computer's clock) with a high-quality map of the earth. The current sun position is displayed, and the parts of the earth in sunlight and twilight are highlighted. This display is automatically updated every few seconds. Local sunrise, sunset, and times around the world are also displayed. Over 200 maps and a variety of other options are available. One big advantage of electronic maps is that they can be kept up to date: the maps are correct through the division of Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia, and the recognition of Eritrea.

GeoClock includes a sophisticated time zone system that handles all of the world's summer and standard time zones. The local time for cities is automatically adjusted as the time of year changes.

GeoClock can be easily customized for your location and time zone by picking from a list of over 3,400 US and world cities, or by entering your US ZIP code. The setup program also customizes the program for your hardware.

     An EGA, VGA, or 800x600 graphics adapter, a hard disk, and a high-density floppy disk drive are required. GeoClock costs $35, which includes 44 maps. A variety of optional maps and features are available at extra cost.

GeoGlobe 1.2:

     The GeoGlobe program displays a globe rotating on its axis. It shows the same high-quality view as other GeoClock products. The rotation is very smooth, because 360 separate views are maintained. In addition, the globe can orbit over the screen, making the program a beautiful and

educational screen saver. It requires a VGA or better display, and operates best when at least 1.3 MB of free RAM (any combination of low, EMS, and XMS memory) is available. There are a variety of controls for color, speed, movement patterns, and use of memory. The globe orbits the

screen like the earth revolves around the sun, showing the sunlight curve and displaying the approximate virtual date. GeoGlobe is $15 for registered owners of GeoClock.

Program Info.: GeoClock


GeoClock

Windows ZIP File Manager

GEOCLK.ZIP - PBS Applications, Library 5 (Desktop Tools)

A nifty version of the GeoChron wall clock that shows either the whole world or the USA in glorious color on SVGA, EGA or VGA monitors. The daylight portion of the world is bright and the nighttime portion is darker. The clock moves in real time, but it can be sped up at will. The Sun's current position over the Earth is highlighted, and your city can be highlighted with sunrise and sunset times shown. Shareware, $35 registration, 327909 bytes.


Bulletin
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Column
Crippleware

by Preston Gralla

You've just downloaded what promises to be a great shareware icon editor, you've unzipped it, learned to use it, and labored over creating a series of ten superb icons. The hard part is over and it's time to save your work.

But you can't. You can't save it, you can't print it, in fact, all you can do is stare at those pretty icons on your screen. Welcome to the world of crippleware, shareware that has been intentionally crippled in order to force you to pay the author for a fully functioning version of the program.

Games that let you play for only fifteen minutes, databases with a limited number of records you can create, "nag screens" that pop up over a communications program so frequently they make the program impossible to use  these are just a few of the nasty little techniques authors have used to try to strong-arm people into registering their software. Such obvious attempts at coercion breed ill-will and generally backfire: Instead of getting people to ante up, "They encourage people to DEL *.*." in the words of Bob Ostrander, a founder of the Public Brand Software shareware distributor.

The biggest problem cause by crippleware is probably not the money spent downloading or buying a disk  it's the time wasted in learning the program. Says Nelson Ford, who runs the Public Software Library (PsL:), "With badly crippled software, the real cost is not in acquiring the program, but in the time spent ordering the shareware disk, waiting for it, installing it, and running it -- only to find out that you cannot really test it because it is severely crippled."

There's a difference between crippleware and software demos. A demo is a program that's not meant to be used to any extent, but rather is a showpiece that lets people see what the program can accomplish. Some demos are nothing more than on-screen "slide shows" showing off what the program can do, while others are partially functioning versions of the full program. They're often free demos of commercial packages. As long as demos are clearly labeled as such, there's nothing wrong with them, since you can decide whether it's worth your effort. When they're not labeled as demos, however, they're misleading and a form of crippleware.

While today crippleware is relatively rare, there was a time when it was all too common. Recalls Ostrander, "Back in 1986, 1987, crippling was so ever-present it was tough to find software to put in the PBS catalog. It seemed like half of everything was a demo."

In part to combat the crippleware problem, a group of shareware authors got together and formed the Association of Shareware Professionals. In order to join the group, authors had to pledge not to cripple their programs.

But here's the rub: It's not always so easy to tell what's crippleware and what's not. How about a shareware program that includes everything but documentation? A game that forces you to wait 30 seconds between levels of play, or whose registered version includes a "cheat" mode? Or a text editor whose registered version packs more features than does its non-registered version? Would you consider those programs crippled?

Questions like these bedevil many in the shareware industry to an almost comical degree. They've led to the kind of intercine warfare that you'd find in the smoke-filled back halls of a local union when it's election time, and everyone wants to count the votes their own way  and is willing to back their point of view with a bit of muscle.

Take the long-running dispute between the ASP and shareware powerhouse Apogee Software, which sells such best-selling games as Commander Keen, Wolfenstein 3-D, Monster Bash, and the recent Bio Menace. Apogee has consistently pushed the envelope of what the ASP considers crippleware, which is why according to Scott Miller, the head of Apogee, they've consistently been denied admittance to the ASP.

Notes Miller, "When I originally applied for ASP membership with Commander Keen, we were rejected on the basis of our cheat codes, which were only made available to registered players, and not available in the shareware episode. A year later the ASP finally decided that cheat codes weren't all bad, and now they allow them.

Apogee's latest membership application was recently rejected, too. I submitted our super hit game, Monster Bash, and it violates ASP's anti-crippling rules. Beginning after level five and up to level 10, the game forces the player to wait 30 seconds until a registration reminder screen is displayed. So far, *no one* has complained of this technique, yet thousands have registered - the game is a huge success. My feeling is that if the user doesn't react to a registration incentive negatively, then it's not crippling...If Apogee would have followed all the ASP rules and guilelines of old, we'd be a much poorer company at this time. It's really a good sign they keep rejecting our membership applications -- it tells me we're still doing things right."

Bob Ostrander, among many others in the ASP, disagrees. "In my dictionary "Crippled" means ANY deviation from S=R (Shareware equals registered) in terms of functionality," he says.

More energy than you can imagine goes into feuds like these, and they help no one. Shareware authors and organizations would do better to face more serious problems such as how to get large corporations to finally accept shareware, or how to break shareware out of its small niche, instead of arguing points so finely it at times seems as if they're medieval theologians debating how many angels can dance on the head of a pin.

For the truth is, there's a common-sense rule you should apply to whether a piece of shareware is crippled: Does it do what it promises to do? If it won't do what it promises because of some feature left out, or obtrusive nag screens, then it's crippled. If it does what it promises  even if it's missing a bell or whistle or two compared to the registered version  it's not crippled. That means, to a certain extent, one person's crippled software is another one's fully functioning program. Sums up Rob Rosenberger, SYSOP for the CompuServe Shareware Forum (GO SHARE), and a full-time shareware author with four programs to his credit: "To twist a cliché: Crippleware is in the eye of the beholder."

  Roundtable Discussion


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Round Table Discussion
Roundtable Discussion: Crippleware

Hosted by Preston Gralla

What is crippleware? Should shareware ever be crippled for any reason whatsoever? How can you even know if a shareware program is crippled? To get answers to these questions, we asked a diverse group of shareware authors and distributors to give us their point of view about crippleware to participate in an electronic roundtable about the issue. Following are their edited comments about crippleware. You can read the opinions and comments of these personalities by clicking on each participants "chair" below. You can return to the main Round Table menu from each interview by selecting the "Back" button from the above menu or by clicking on the "Return to the Round Table" selection at the bottom of the text.

The Roundtable


RT: Bob Ostrander
Roundtable Interview: Bob Ostrander

Bob Ostrander is a founder of Public Brand Software, one of the world's largest shareware vendors.

What is crippleware?

In my dictionary "crippled" means ANY deviation from S=R (Shareware equals Registered) in terms of functionality. "Crippleware" means that the program won't accomplish what it sets out to do--i.e., won't do a useful task that satisfies the needs of the target audience. Typically, some basic functionality is left off. The reading of some graphic format, DBMS indexing, having a 20,000-word spell checker. Now, leaving the spell checker out of the evaluation copy of a entry-level word processor isn't necessarily crippling it. A spell checker takes up lots of room and would inhibit distribution. Same for many game and education programs, such as just having a couple of pictures in a coloring book.

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

Crippling slightly can, of course, increase registration from the "scofflaws," people who don't normally register for altruistic reasons, and that's the majority. But the crippling must be innocuous. It must seem to be normal rather than aimed at the user. The widespread use of reminder screens -- beg screens -- has made that "normal" and not an insult to the user. Not saving the file or long delay screens attack the sensibility of the user. They are insulting. They not only cut down on distribution, they encourage people to DEL *.*.

Is the whole issue of crippleware much ado about nothing?

Back in 1986, 1987 crippling was so ever-present it was tough to find software to put in the PBS catalog. It seemed like half of everything was a demo. MIS types were not looking toward shareware because much of it was a waste of download time. BBSs posted this stuff because it was so prevalent -- usually without warnings in the descriptions. Now BBSs won't handle demos or crippleware and businesses are actively looking toward shareware. The industry as a whole is a lot more solid. Non-crippling helped a lot. This is one place that Button, Magee, Simon, and the early ASP (Association of Shareware Professionals) did good work.

Return to the Roundtable


RT: Scott Miller
Roundtable Interview: Scott Miller

Scott Miller is president of Apogee Software (Wolfenstein 3-D, Bio Menace, Commander Keen, etc.)

Apogee has been at the forefront of the crippleware issue for several years. The ASP (Association of Shareware Professionals), whose membership lives by a set of rules against crippling, has many heated discussions over the methods Apogee uses as incentives. For example, when I originally applied for ASP membership with Commander Keen, we were rejected on the basis of our cheat codes, which were only made available to registered players, and not available in the shareware episode. A year later the ASP finally decided that cheat codes weren't all bad, and now they allow them.

Apogee's latest membership application was recently rejected, too. I submitted our super-hit game, Monster Bash, and it violates ASP's anti-crippling rules. Beginning after level five and up to level 10, the game forces the player to wait 30 seconds until a registration reminder screen is displayed. So far, *no one* has complained of this technique, yet thousands have registered  the game is a huge success. My feeling is that if the user doesn't react to a registration incentive negatively, then it's not crippling. So far, players have never reacted negatively to any incentive method invented by Apogee. ASP authors often speak of "positive incentives" nowadays, but it's usually the same as a crippling technique, but with a positive presentation. I've always said that you can get away with any reasonable crippling technique, as long as it's presented well and perceived well by the user. And without impressive incentives to register, most shareware software doesn't stand a chance to succeed. If Apogee would have followed all the ASP rules and guidelines of old, we'd be a much poorer company at this time. It's really a good sign they keep rejecting our membership applications  it tells me we're still doing things right.

Return to the Roundtable


RT: Eric Robichaud
Roundtable Interview: Eric Robichaud

Eric Robichaud is a shareware author (WinPAK series, Blank-It Screen Saver for DOS) and is Chairman of the Board of the Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP).

What Is crippleware?

There is a very fine line between crippling and an incentive. I am entirely against crippling, but extremely in favor of incentives. Crippling is the disabling of features -- the limiting of a program such that it cannot be completely utilized, as-is, on an on-going basis, for example, a database that only holds a few hundred records, or a program that only works for a few weeks. Incentives are bonuses given to entice users to register, but are above and beyond the normal product. For example, the "more of the same" concept: when someone registers a clip art library, they get more.

 Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

I think so, yes. Most people will toss a program that is crippled and NOT evaluate it. The program will forever be branded in their minds as "crippleware." Interestingly, some authors will insist that crippling a product has helped their sales. The point they miss is that creating incentives (as opposed to outright crippling) would achieve even better results, without the negative side effects. However, most don't see this distinction, and simply say "my sales doubled after I crippled," not realizing that they might have seen the same or BETTER results by using incentives instead (not to mention the extra press coverage) that leads to longer term growth as well.

How do you distinguish between crippleware and a program whose registered version has more functionality than its non-registered version?

Crippleware is easily identified. It flaunts the features that are held back, and presents them as such. It contains menu options that are grayed out, or stubbed out with messages that say "This function only available in registered version." Incentives (such as additional features in the registered version) are just that -- they're additional features, above and beyond what would normally be expected from the product. A Rolodex program that offers an autodialer might be a good incentive. It's not necessary, and can be considered a special feature for registered users. A Rolodex that can store only 20 names until registered is crippled. Or, a Rolodex that promotes its autodialer as a very important feature, then has that feature stubbed out, would be "crippled."

Return to the Roundtable


RT: Tom Rawson
Roundtable Interview: Tom Rawson

Tom Rawson is the author of the popular 4DOS program.

What is crippleware?

Crippleware is really software that you can't try before you buy. In some ways it is different for different people. If I leave out feature X to cripple the program so you'll (supposedly) buy it to get that feature, and you don't care about feature X, then to you it isn't crippled. Of course, this exposes the problem with crippleware: if the features that are left out are going to be much of an incentive they have to be ones people care about, and those are just the ones you are going to be most upset about not being able to try! Incidentally, I am more likely to buy something that's crippled (a feature I care about is disabled) if there is a money-back guarantee on the registered version.

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

No, it's OK to do some of this. For example, a development tool with only small-model libraries...I can make the translation to the other model very easily, and I wouldn't want to download it all anyway. Another example: We have distributed 4DOS on magazine cover disks where space was at a premium, and we would leave out pieces of the manual that covered the same information that was in the online help. The product was still fully documented, it just wasn't doubly documented! The real issue is, did you cripple it in a way that prevents the user from using or evaluating the software? If not, then it's OK.

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RT: Glen Tippetts
Roundtable Interview: Glen Tippetts

Glen Tippetts is the author of NeoPaint and the president of the Shareware Trade Association and Resources (STAR), a shareware organization that does not have an anti-crippling policy.

What is crippleware?

I personally consider any software that does not allow the user to fully test the software to see if it meets his or her needs to be crippled. If an unregistered program can do what the user needs or wants, then it is not crippled, regardless of what other features the registered version may offer. Extra fonts, continuing game story lines, and added utilities which may be included in a registered version are not forms of crippling the unregistered version, but rather incentives used for marketing a product.

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

There may be reasons to limit certain features in an unregistered program to cause a higher registration rate  so long as the unregistered version will still do what the user needs. If a program is so limited that the user cannot verify that it will meet his or her needs, the program is too limited.

What's the worst example of crippleware you've ever seen?

Microsoft Excel is the worst example of crippleware I've seen. It requires a copy of Windows to run.

Return to the Roundtable


RT: Nelson Ford
Roundtable Interview: Nelson Ford

Nelson Ford is the owner of the shareware distributor Public Software Library (PsL).

What is crippleware?

I don't believe in labeling something "crippleware" unless it is very blatant. For example, a word processor which has nothing withheld from the shareware version may not have a spelling checker. Another word processor may have a spelling checker in the registered version but not in the shareware version. Many people would call the latter "crippleware," even though it is functionally the same as the first program.

At PsL, our approach is to ignore features not in the shareware version when we write reviews. That way, we are not liable for features promised in the registered version which may or may not work.

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

That depends on how you define "crippling." A shareware startup screen could be considered crippling. I think these screens are the best form of crippling. Withholding features only reduces the chances that a customer will like your program.

Severely crippling software works against the author because nobody will want to use it long enough to register. Vendors & BBSs are less likely to distribute severely crippled software, which also works against the author, of course. There is so much competition in every area of software that if a programmer cripples his program, he is just asking to lose out to some other program which is not crippled. I've seen this happen countless times.

Is the whole issue of crippleware much ado about nothing, since people haven't actually spent any money trying out a crippled program?

With badly crippled software, the real cost is not in acquiring the program, but in the time spent ordering the shareware disk, waiting for it, installing it, and running it -- only to find out that you cannot really test it because it is severely crippled.

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RT: Norm Patriquin
Roundtable Interview: Norm Patriquin

Norm Patriquin is the author of several shareware programs, including PCOPY and PDELETE.

What is crippleware?

I feel crippled software is software that does not provide useful function to the general audience it is intended for. I feel shareware that cannot be used in a normal manner for evaluation is doomed to fail. The shareware marketing and distribution concept depends on the rapid and wide distribution of software to a huge number of potential customers. Crippling software severely inhibits the distribution of software, as it is generally not acceptable as good download or vendor purchase value. It is difficult enough to find good shareware to use, people just do not have the inclination to give any more of their valuable time to evaluating "demo" software.

How do you feel about the use of "bonus features" or additional functionality in registered versions that isn't available in the shareware version?

This presents a problem to authors like myself who have tried a form of incentives which I like to refer to as "bonus features." I once used this technique to disable a couple of minor features in my software in hopes users would eventually run into them and be encouraged to register the software to use the protected functions. This sounds like crippling but I was sure to only protect seldom-used functions and those that were sure not to disrupt the nature of the utility. A few outspoken individuals complained that I crippled the software, and then the software was labeled as crippled by a few BBS systems and shareware vendors. I discontinued the "bonus" feature practice as it became a hassle to defend.

I offer two versions of my major products, a shareware version and a "PLUS" version. The shareware version is complete and does not offer advanced features found in the PLUS version. The shareware version is less expensive to purchase and will fit most users needs just fine. The PLUS version adds advanced features and is a little more expensive and is designed for the more power users of a product.

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

Yes, I don't think crippling or even bonus features are a good idea. It is too easy to get rejected in the distribution channel and to get a bad reputation with potential users.

Is the whole issue of crippleware much ado about nothing, since people haven't actually spent any money trying out a program?

Crippleware just flat does not work in my mind! Any shareware author who proceeds upon this basis is wasting their time. Consider special messages with wait time and other incentives to encourage registration.

Any other comments?

Users need to understand the shareware distribution technique. You get the program into the hands of as many people as possible and then trust that enough users will register and make it worth your effort. You can't be concerned about "all those users using my hard developed software for free." Who cares? Does it really matter? No--all that matters is if you can make the effort you put into development and support, pay you back for your investment, or whatever else you feel you need from the effort.

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RT: Todd Werelius
Roundtable Interview: Todd Werelius

Todd Werelius is the author of WindowMagic.

What is crippleware?

Any program that is not 100% functional or that limits how much (vs. what) it will let you do. Sometimes it is not practical to include everything in the shareware, such as our 3,800 icons. This is a pragmatic issue, and not intended primarily as an inducement to buy the product. Products that I consider crippleware are primarily those that are somehow limited in their use (usually you cannot save any of your work).

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

We tried this once by making our system stop functioning after so many days of use. It turned out to be a really bad idea. We are still getting calls about versions that have that built into them.

According to downloads we have about 45,000 users. which is substantially larger than the registered base. This is typical in the shareware market, and this leads developers to thoughts of "How can we make people register?" Unfortunately, I don't think any of the crippling ideas have any real merit; they usually drive users away, not bring them in. I guess if you think that your program is something that people just can't live without, a product that someone takes one look at and says "I just gotta have this!" then maybe that strategy would work, but I have never seen such a beast.

The best advice I can give anyone from my personal experience is to use the time you have to improve the product, not cripple it. I view the shareware market as a great way to introduce a product and to test your ideas. The biggest problem with shareware authors is they expect the money to come rolling in, and when it doesn't, they either quit or come up with some kind of cripple scheme. If you can stick with the program long enough, the registrations will take care of themselves. The best thing we ever did was to introduce the use of our registration screen, which reminds people of how long they have been using the program and that it is still not registered, but it in no way limits what they can do with the program.

Is the whole issue of crippleware much ado about nothing, since people haven't actually spent any money trying out a program?

In my view, users or other authors that make this issue into a jihad [a holy war] must have nothing better to do with their lives.

Do you have any other comments?

The whole issue of crippleware is driven by the fact that most shareware authors are entrepreneurs. They are usually quite creative and want to get control of their own lives. In order to do this, they have to sell product so that they can devote more time to the business they love, and less time to the business that pays the bills. If even 10% of the people registered our software that used it, I could devote 100% of my time to improving it. I know of one company that has been using about 60 copies of our program for almost a year, and we have never seen a dime. That seems a little stingy to me, and is usually the type of thing that causes a "Crippleware Binge." The end result--of more users not registering the software they use--will be a lot more crippleware and a lot less creative guys getting into the business.

Return to the Roundtable


RT: Rob Rosenberger
Roundtable Interview: Rob Rosenberger

Rob Rosenberger is the SYSOP of the CompuServe Shareware Forum and is also the author of several shareware programs, including PCFDial and Qanalyst.

What is crippleware?

I have a litmus test for the word "crippleware." Retail companies distribute functionally crippled versions at trade shows. So let's assume you could sell a retail company on any given software. If a traditional retail firm would give away the "distributable" version, then I consider the program crippled. Apogee's "trilogy" concept--give away one and sell the others--does NOT meet my crippleware litmus test. No retail company in its right mind would give away a fully functional program as a "loss leader" to sell other games in the series. If anything, I call it a freeware advertisement, and I'd suggest retail game companies rethink their abhorrence to loss leaders.

Is it a bad idea to cripple a program in any way, even slightly?

Not in certain instances. Even then it can depend on complex issues regarding what you hold back and how you go about telling the user it exists in the registered version. If an author has no real competition of any sort and a lot of people need the program, I think he could effectively use crippling to force payment. If on the other hand he has a lot of competition and/or people don't really need the software, then crippling will probably kill his sales. Why should I even bother with a 100-record database program when PC-File's shareware version lets me enter a billion records?

Is the whole issue of crippleware much ado about nothing, since people haven't actually spent any money trying out a program?

I think crippleware has a lot of ado about something. BBS sysops have always wrestled with the limits of disk space; shareware vendors can only carry so many products in their catalogs. Each wants to please their customers--and what better way than to avoid crippleware? The selection of fully functional programs alone gives them enough to deal with in most cases.

How do you distinguish between crippleware and a program whose registered version has more functionality than its non-registered version?

To twist a cliché: "crippleware is in the eye of the beholder." The average shareware author can't hope to make much money if too many eyes view it as crippled. If you add functionality to the registered version, someone out there will almost certainly claim you reduced functionality in the shareware version. Users pay the author's salary in the final analysis, so an author has to decide where he'll draw the line if he wants to hold back functionality from the shareware version.

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RT: Julian Achim
Roundtable Interview: Julian Achim

Julian Achim is the author of Envision Publisher.

What is crippleware?

Crippleware is a relative word, and it varies widely from program to program as well as from person to person. For a program to be crippled, it has to lack critical functional components, such as save, print, load, or have a severe limitation (i.e., a database that would only handle a small number of records).

I don't view crippling as a threat to the shareware industry simply because crippled programs will be rejected by the marketplace, they will not spread, and they will eventually just disappear.

Is the whole issue of crippleware much ado about nothing, since people haven't actually spent any money trying out a program ?

I think shareware users are entitled to a fully functional program. Besides money, they also invest time testing the product. I think shareware is based on trust. The author must trust the user. Of course, there are users who will use shareware without registering, but these are probably the same people who would use a bootleg copy of Lotus. Shareware authors should not even think about unregistered users; instead, they should focus on the registered users, and provide the best service and product they can.

What's the worst example of crippleware you've ever seen?

Do you remember the "working models" most major non-shareware companies put out a few years ago? These companies also encouraged people to freely copy the working model, and "share" the working models with your friends and associates. These working models were identical to the full versions, except that they could not print, save, etc. Now, that's what I call crippleware! If you remember, this working model craze went on for a few months with full-page ads in most major magazines, etc. But then everybody dropped it. Obviously it did not work very well.

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