legal question ?
- Started
- Last post
- 4 Responses
- jgjh151
Need input on this:
I am a developer for a small web firm that primarily codes tools in ASP. On my free time I have created a few PHP/MySQL tools that are equivalent to the ASP tools we sell with our sites.
Now my question is, when we get requests for something like one of the PHP tools I've created on MY time, how do I go about using it at the company I work for? Do I ask for some kind of bonus added on to what I would normally make for the hours it takes me to put the tool into the project? Kinda like they pay me for my tool, then they pay me normally for the hours of implementation/salary.
It's just that I don't think I should just get paid my normal hourly rate and let them use the tools I've spent hours of my own time coding.
What do you think?
- ctrlRmB0
Don't develop it for them without coming to an agreement first... They should be happy to compensate your time by writing it into the project cost...
- jgjh1510
I'm not really developing it for them, although it would certainly be useful to them.
Actually making my own versions of popular tools for freelance work, my own site, etc...
thanks!
anyone else?
- enobrev0
well before handing anything over talk to your boss about compensation. Basically you could allow the company to resell your code. Your employer becomes your client, and I'm sure they will not want to give up their client to you (unless you guys agree to, of course).
Regardless, it's your work, and don't take that fact lightly. Your choice is really if you would want to offer them the code as a whole, or offer to license it to them per client.
But first talk to your boss to see what options they are willing to adhere to. If none, then sell them on your own.
- sparker0
you need to draft a ip/copyright contract.
i personally would go the route of licensing because it adds up to more money over time.
instead of just asking for a little more money, license the use to them for a lower fee.
they have to continuouly pay the license fee forever (or until they stop using your work).
but make sure you get it all signed in a legal contract. otherwise you can and will get fucked.
i would talk to your boss and talk with an ip/copyright lawyer.
you can find free advice by going to a local small business development center.
pay for the copyrights and make sure you own your ip.
do it right and you will make a decent bit of extra cash, don't pay attention to the details and you'll get fucked.
:)