My theme for this feature on PARALLAX PRO is how licensing agreements can be a powerful tool for web design businesses, both for those using Parallax Pro by StudioPress and other themes alike. This article will not only help you understand what an exclusive license agreement is, but how it can be used effectively by web designers to protect, and maximize the return on your design assets.
What Is An Exclusive License Agreement?
Essentially, an exclusive license is a licensing agreement that grants a person or business exclusive control over the use of a particular asset. This means that an exclusive licensee has the right to take all the actions they want to in order to aggregate a high return on the asset, thus marginalizing the designer, investor or creator’s return. Such contracts are especially popular in the world of intellectual property, as they prevent the creator from participating in the use of that property. For web designers, it is important to know that such an agreement can form a legally binding contract to their benefit.
Why Is It Important To A Web Designer?
Having an exclusive license agreement for a design or collection of designs is powerful in that it allows you to aggregate the return on the assets, and act as a gatekeeper to others who might want to use the asset without compensating you. Keep in mind that you are giving away many rights to the exclusivity of the design, so weigh the pros and cons before moving forward with such a plan.
How Can It Be Used?
For most designers, setting a standard licensing agreement as a prerequisite for design using a theme such as Parallax Pro is often the topic of a sale. If the design is used within the boundaries of the agreement, the designer benefits. If however, it is misused in violation of the agreement, the designer can quickly eliminate, restrict or penalize a violator.
Benefits Of An Exclusive License Agreement
An exclusive license agreement gives web designers for themes like Parallax Pro, total ownership and control of the designs they have created. This not only increases the value of many designs used in web design, but also gives designers the peace of mind that their hard work will not be used without appropriate compensation.
Downsides To An Exclusive License Agreement
Because an exclusive license agreement can be lengthy and complex, it is important for designers to spend ample time thinking about their next move with their licensed designs. This allows them to architect the right agreement for long-term protection, and limited downsides.
How It Can Help Prevent Unauthorized Use
When a designer has an exclusive license agreement, they can prevent unauthorized use if the terms of use are not followed. Enforcing the contract can be as simple as submitting a cease and desist notice, or forcing penalties on the violator.
How It Impacts Collaborations
In some cases, designs may be used in collaboration with other businesses. The same principles apply though; a designer cannot allow their work to be used without adequate compensation, or they risk being placed in a difficult situation.
How It Benefits You
Some common situations include: Exclusive License Agreements and Website Designers When working with a web design theme such as Parallax Pro, it is important for you to protect your assets so that you may continue profiting from them. Exclusive license agreements can do exactly that.
Best Practices
There are four best practices to consider. Expert Legal Advice Before drafting an exclusive license agreement, consult with a professional who can help you identify the need, and properly implement it into your business model.