Exam Questions

Question 1

Carefully explain how computer software, which is intellectual property, is protected in Cameroon

Answer 1

1. Legal Protection: In Cameroon, computer software is protected under Copyright Law. Section 327 of the Cameroon Penal Code specifically addresses copyright offenses.
2. Scope: The law protects the form of ideas, not the ideas themselves.
3. Intent: Proof of intention, as defined under Section 74 of the Penal Code, is required to establish an offense.
4. Penalties: Offenders face imprisonment (3 months to 2 years) and fines (20,000 to 500,000 FCFA).
5. Exceptions:
   
   • Authorization: Copying, distribution, or use is legal if authorized by the owner.
   • Academic Purposes: Reproduction for academic purposes is not an offense.

Question 2

Carefully distinguish between computer service/maintenance contracts and proactive maintenance contracts, bringing out the agreement and contract tips considered when making the contract

Answer 2

1. Computer Service/Maintenance Contracts:
   
   • Definition: Agreements for services like repair, labor, and preventive maintenance.
   • Tips:
     
     • Insist on an initial evaluation.
     • Start with a three-month trial before extending to annual contracts.
     • Opt for buying service hours for flexibility.
   • Clauses:
     
     • Covers printers, servers, workstations.
     • Preventive maintenance done quarterly.
     • Backup processes and certified technicians are required.
2. Proactive Maintenance Contracts:
   
   • Definition: Preventive services with guaranteed monthly visits based on contract hours.
   • Features:
     
     • Monitor free disk space, error logs, printers, and directory structures.
     • Emphasizes prevention rather than reactive repairs.
   • Key Difference: Proactive contracts focus on scheduled system health checks, while service contracts mainly deal with repairs and troubleshooting