Software For Ransom

rbp writes "I just received a message from Adam Theo on the Jabber Developers Mailing List about what he calls "The Ransom Model" for software publishing. The principle, according to the above linked site, is that the "rights to the source code remain restricted until a set amount of money is collected or a set date passes, at which point the code is freed". Seems like a very interesting way to make money and produce free software. I think it's worth discussion. Take a look at the Ransom Model webpage and join the Ransom mailing list! (You might also be interested in recent news about Blender)" Reader Apreche adds a link to a Freshmeat editorial piece which draws on Theo's idea, writing "This has some obvious problems, but it is worth discussing. The biggest problem I see is where vaporware fits into the equation."

Comments

Re:I think we're forgetting something

[ekrout]

Yeah, that'd work.

Maybe I'll try the same thing with my brand new sports coupe. If I leave the door's unlocked, it will allow people to just look through it and admire its outer *and* inner beauty.

Yeah. That might work. ;-)

Greed, it's what's for dinner

[LadyJessica]

Greed, it builds strong bodies in twelve ways.

Greed, ask for it by name!

Greed, it worked for Enron executives, why not me?

Greed, it's what's for dinner.

Got greed?

"I've got this bitchen software that's like sooo cool 'n' stuff. Pay me and I'll let you use it for a limited time under certain restrictive circumstances subject to revokation at any time, your mileage may vary." -- Microsoft

:-)