Dear Faculty and Staff,

To promote the protection of intellectual property rights on campus, all units are reminded to pay attention to applicable licensing requirements when maintaining webpages, publishing documents, and using software in their daily work. Understanding the applicable terms and conditions in advance can help avoid potential issues related to the scope or manner of use.

I. For External Documents, Prioritize Links to Official Websites

When posting handbooks, announcements, or related documents issued by government agencies, schools, or other external organizations on your unit's website, if the original publisher has provided the document for download on its official website, units are encouraged to provide a link to the original publisher's official website or official download page, rather than downloading and re-uploading the document to the university website.

This approach helps maintain consistency with the version provided by the original publisher and makes it easier to access updated versions when the document is revised.

II. Free or Open-Source Software Is Still Subject to Licensing Terms

Many software programs, software packages, and fonts available online may be provided free of charge or as open-source resources. However, they may still be subject to specific licensing terms and conditions.

Therefore, before using such resources, users should review the applicable licensing terms and confirm that the intended use is consistent with those requirements. Software should not be assumed to be available for unrestricted use simply because it is described as "free" or "open source."

For websites, administrative systems, teaching platforms, or research systems developed in-house or commissioned from external vendors, units are also reminded to confirm that the software and software packages used are consistent with the applicable licensing requirements.

III. Confirm Appropriate Software Licensing for Official Use

When using software on university computers and related information systems for official duties, units should confirm the source of the software and the applicable scope of its license. Software obtained or used without proper authorization should not be used.

When using free versions, trial versions, or software licensed for individual use, users should also confirm whether the applicable license permits use for official duties, teaching, research, or other intended purposes.

Protecting intellectual property rights requires the collective effort of the entire university community. If you have any questions regarding web documents, software licensing, or the use of information systems, please contact the Computer Center for assistance and clarification.

Computer Center
National Formosa University