It's been a long time since I looked at Shared Source, but here is what I
recall....
> * Microsoft owns the source code and any changes you make to it.
My understanding is you can only "view" not modify. So there is nothing
of yours for M$ to own.
> - You can't change the software to include company secrets. The
> GPL allows you to redistribute the changed binary within the
> company without releasing the source code.
My understanding is you can't change the software at all.
> - I don't think you can give your changes to other organizations.
> If another company is having the same problems, could you help
> point them in the right direction at least?
You could point them in the right direction as to the cause of their
problem assuming it didn't violate your non-disclosure signed with
Microsoft. However, you are not allowed (iirc) to change anything so you
certainly could share a "patch".
> * What happens if Microsoft goes out of business? Does the source
> code become free range or would the rights be transferred to another
> company?
Depends on how contracts are structured. I suppose some companies have
been able to get escrow deals with M$, where by M$ closes its doors its
source becomes available to those that have paid.
> * How much does it cost to purchase viewing rights to the code? Does
> Microsoft give away this right for free to larger customers?
It cost a butt load (technical term). Only the largest customers or those
with security concerns above the norm (foreign/local governments) have
been offerred "Shared Source" deals.
Please note one of the most evil things about Shared Source is the
non-disclosure stuff you have to sign. Basically it all but ruins your
career of working on anything but M$ stuff for the rest of your life just
to be able to 'view' the source code.
If my facts are wrong please correct. As stated it's been sometime since
I reviewed Shared Source.
-Derek
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