It does not pertain to uncopyrighted software, public domain software, or software acquired pursuant to a site license. The terms of site licenses vary, and software distributed under a site license must be used and copied in accordance with that license. This policy does not address the extent to which copyrighted software can be displayed or used for classroom instruction. Educators may make fair use of software, just as they may make fair use of books or articles, but the fair use doctrine does not permit the reproduction and distribution of complete copyrighted material for classroom use year after year. Copyright laws prohibit unauthorized copying of a program for use in more than one machine.
Some licenses go further, and permit copies of a program for use in more than one machine.
As long as no program is run simultaneously on more microcomputers than it has been purchased for, the objective of the license is achieved, and making distinctions among copies is of no benefit to the copyright owner. The University does not require, request, or condone unauthorized copying or unauthorized use of computer software. The Assistant to the CIO, Office of Information Technology serves as the I.T. Policy Administrator and will ensure this process is followed. This individual is also available to answer questions or provide additional information regarding this policy. The responsibility for interpretation of this policy rests with the Assistant to the CIO, Office of Information Technology, West Virginia University.