I like the XLC functions and toolbar. Very nice.

However, I have a problem with the expiration policy. This policy seems like a big disadvantage. The thought of writing a spreadsheet which will expire in the near future is enough to keep me from using these functions in some cases. A thought that will occur to many users is that you will stop issuing updates and renewals because you decide it is not profitable or some other reason, and so our spreadsheets will all expire with no hope of making them work again.

A suggestion:
Since you are offering it free, why not offer updates to subscribers but not use an expiration date. It seems like piracy wouldn't be much of a problem since registration is free. If monetary compensation is a concern, you could offer updates or a more advanced version for a small fee. This is what many software writers do. Please do away with the expiration.

Thanks,
MAJ

Thanks for your comment you have cleary read our reasons for having an expiry date on our FAQ's page. Remember when XLC expires only the ability of XLC to redraw equations will cease to work. Those equations already drawn remain as graphic objects and all Excel functions (including XLC functions) continue to work so formulae in cells continue to work. Please be assured that you have nothing to loose in terms of time invested in developing your spreadsheet.

Hi John:

Although you have explained the implications of expiry date isue quite well, it might be good to emphasize that use of XLC offers a feature to show mathematical equations as a graphic object; and with the use of current version of XLC the mathematical equation graphic ojects would be dynamic -- meaning it would be possible to redraw (update) them; and without the use of current version of XLC these would become static objects -- meaning it would not be possible to redraw (update) the mathematical equation graphic objects.

The functioning of EXCEL spreadsheet will not be affected with or without the use of current or expired version version of XLC.


Regards!
Yogi Anand, D.Eng, P.E.
Energy Efficient Building Network LLC http://www.energyefficientbuild.com<br><br>Post edited by: yogia, at: 2007/04/10 02:08

I agree with Maj in regards to the expiration policy. My work computer requires admin rights to install software. Installing the software manually is against company rules and therefore not an option. However, my IT department will evaluate the software and release it if no problems are encountered during testing. This evaluation takes approximately 2 months. The problem is that each new version will require me to go through the approval process. Is there any other options?