Washington § 82.04.215 - "Computer," "computer software," "custom software," "customization of prewritten computer software," "master copies," "prewritten computer software," "retained rights."

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 82.04.215 — "Computer," "computer software," "custom software," "customization of prewritten computer software," "master copies," "prewritten computer software," "retained rights.", with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 82.04.215. "Computer," "computer software," "custom software," "customization of prewritten computer software," "master copies," "prewritten computer software," "retained rights."

(1) "Computer" means an electronic device that accepts information in digital or similar form and manipulates it for a result based on a sequence of instructions.

(2) "Computer software" means a set of coded instructions designed to cause a computer or automatic data processing equipment to perform a task. All software is classified as either prewritten or custom. Consistent with this definition "computer software" includes only those sets of coded instructions intended for use by an end user and specifically excludes retained rights in software and master copies of software.

(3) "Custom software" means software created for a single person.

(4) "Customization of prewritten computer software" means any alteration, modification, or development of applications using or incorporating prewritten computer software for a specific person. "Customization of prewritten computer software" includes individualized configuration of software to work with other software and computer hardware but does not include routine installation. Customization of prewritten computer software does not change the underlying character or taxability of the original prewritten computer software.

(5) "Master copies" of software means copies of software from which a software developer, author, inventor, publisher, licensor, sublicensor, or distributor makes copies for sale or license.

(6) "Prewritten computer software" means computer software, including prewritten upgrades, that is not designed and developed by the author or other creator to the specifications of a specific purchaser. The combining of two or more prewritten computer software programs or prewritten portions thereof does not cause the combination to be other than prewritten computer software. Prewritten computer software includes software designed and developed by the author or other creator to the specifications of a specific purchaser when it is sold to a person other than such purchaser. Where a person modifies or enhances computer software of which such persons is not the author or creator, the person shall be deemed to be the author or creator only of the person's modifications or enhancements. Prewritten computer software or a prewritten portion thereof that is modified or enhanced to any degree, where such modification or enhancement is designed and developed to the specifications of a specific purchaser, remains prewritten computer software; however where there is a reasonable, separately stated charge or an invoice or other statement of the price given to the purchaser for the modification or enhancement, the modification or enhancement shall not constitute prewritten computer software.

(7) "Retained rights" means any and all rights, including intellectual property rights such as those rights arising from copyrights, patents, and trade secret laws, that are owned or are held under contract or license by a software developer, author, inventor, publisher, licensor, sublicensor, or distributor.

[ 2003 c 168 s 601; 1998 c 332 s 3.]

Notes

Effective dates—Part headings not law—2003 c 168: See notes following RCW 82.08.010.

Findings—Intent—Effective date—1998 c 332: See notes following RCW 82.04.050.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 82.04.215

What does Revised Code of Washington § 82.04.215 cover?

Section 82.04.215 (""Computer," "computer software," "custom software," "customization of prewritten computer software," "master copies," "prewritten computer software," "retained rights."") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 82.04.215?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 82.04.215" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 82.04.215 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Official text of § 82.04.215 at the Washington source

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.