Software distribution processes

I've just come across the following article that talks about the conflicts between Digital Rights vendors and free software. It neatly explains the conflicting interests of the three parties involved: content providers who want to protect their software, control its distribution and maximise profits from that software, consumers who want software for the cheapest possible price and don't want restrictions imposed on its use, and DRM vendors who want to become the technology providers of choice to the content providers. It considers how a free DRM provider might meet these challenges, and what issues might be thrown up as a result.

Another white paper reviews the recent SONY spyware issue, and their unorthodox (and costly) attempts to impose DRM on their music, which landed them in a lot of hot water. It brings up issues that I think apply to all digital content.

Finally, on the topic of how happy businesses are to get continuous updates, this survey paints a rather gloomy picture.