Dear Colleagues:

The University Software Program of Schlumberger Oil & Gas Information
Systems is offering a significant software donation (actually a no-cost
lease) to one of our geologists.  While we have had similar large
software donations previously, some of the terms of this agreement are
onerous or not legal for us to accept.  The main concerns are:

1.  The agreement requires that we must publish 1 technical paper each
year in which the software is utilized.  Further, any publications based
on the software must be reviewed and approved by Schlumberger.  We don't
normally allow such external approval.

2.  The agreement requires us to indemnify and hold harmless
Schlumberger against any 3rd party claims regarding our use of the
software.  As a state institution, we are unable to accept such
indemnification.

So far, they have been unwilling to change/remove these requirements.

I am curious to know if any of you have dealt with this company on a
similar "donation."  If so, were you able to get any
removel/modification of these requirements?  Any help will be
appreciated.

You can reply via the listserve or contact me offline at the e-mail or
phone number below.

Steve Etheredge

R. Steven Etheredge, Associate Director
Sponsored Programs & Research
University of South Carolina
(803) 777-7093
(803) 777-4136 fax
xxxxxx@gwm.sc.edu

Anthony M. Boccanfuso, Ph.D.
Managing Director
Univ. of South Carolina Research Foundation
900 Sumter Street
Columbia, SC 29208
xxxxxx@sc.edu
803.777.4305 work
803.777.4136 fax
803.463.3832 cell

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