That doesn't make sense: when you give someone a copy of your code snippets, it's just that: a copy. You still have them, too.

Hi,

You do not 'Give' snippets out of the toolbox. You replicate, extract or streamline the code to suit the contract. If the code intellectual rights are retained than where do you see error. You have read program contract agreements haven't you? If so then you would know what I'm talking about. If not then search for boiler plate contracts: programmers for hire. Generally these are not well suited without making changes to meet requirements between concerned parties.

Have you ever written contract code? If so then this situation would be perfectly clear. Personally I do not 'share' my code but contract to produce. If the toolbox snippets can be used via adaptation then a lot less time therefore efficiency. Realize that good debugged code does not happen over night. Depending on the complexity of the program and sub sets/routines then you will need to provide clean thorough code. Add in debug time and things get expensive for complex programs for a chosen language. Some languages suit certain program applications. I've written in several languages for different program models. Several mixed language programs with multiple routine sets that were very complex. You would not want to use FORTRAN for machine control nor 'C' when 'C++' would meet a required defined situation. Heck, written bash and never got to the higher level since the requirements were met by bash. Not everything needs a high level language.

IDE & libs are a big advantage but: why re-invent something. Adapt or rewrite whenever possible proven code that one owns the rights to can be provided via contract. How do you think libs & IDE came about? Standardized set available for licensed use. Now, if a contractor wants raw code then that's a big plus for the programmer to make a buck or two. Contractor must be made aware of the difference within the contract or there will be confusion for liable reasons between both parties of the contract.

Intellectual rights must be protected if you expect to repeat with a customer and provide valid useful code. If you write contract code an give up the intellectual rights to the contractor then you had better be paid well.

HTH!

Hi,

Good read that is!

This thread has been very helpful to me. The links you have provided me with and the time you took to respond with such thoughtful comments are very much appreciated. Hopefully you will be interested in participating in future discussions on the boards.