Date: Thu, Oct 5, 2000 3:33 PM
Subject: Consumer protection and software

Dear Sirs:

I would like to comment on the issues of software and shrinkwrap licenses. I am a computer professional, specifically, a professor at a small college. I deal in the purchase of software for individuals, educational institutions, and companies of all sizes.

Most software purchased -- stinks. Meaning that the programs were not tested completely before shipping, and worse, there is little or no documentation to assist the user. I hate to make such a broad statement about the software industry, but I do not remember the last software package I received that had adequate documentation.

I am not an advocate of government intervention. However, the industry has done a very poor job of policing itself, in-fact that is a joke.

I am concerned that some special interest groups are trying to force laws on all of us that violate federal consumer protection laws. The above actions by the software industry echo the actions of many industries that just turn a blind eye to safety and good products.

One final thought. I am also concerned that there be some protection for commerical organizations against the software companies. Too often software is shipped with known 'bugs' or when one is found there is no effort to notify the user base. E-mail communication should, or could make this communication easier, but I have never been notified by a vendor.

Thank your very much.

Sincerely,

Stephen Jaeger