Personal vs Commercial use license: Why it’s important to know the difference.
Did you know that improperly using any online content that isn’t yours can result in hefty fines? You may also be hit with penalties and possibly court? Photos and music that doesn’t belong to you aren’t the only things that can land you in hot water. There’s a wide range of material that if not used with the properly can get you in trouble. This includes software, graphic designs, fonts, and many other works not created by YOURSELF. That is why it’s important to know about licensing and to make sure you’re on the right side of usage.
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What are the different license types?
Depending on the type of product you are using there are different license types. Think about how you companies like Adobe and Microsoft require certain software licenses to use their products. Or how you can’t use certain music on Youtube.
While, I want to dive deep into licensing I’m not an expert. Plus, most of you guys (my readers) only need to know the different between personal use and commercial use licenses. In most cases when you purchase or download a product it will outline the license type.
What is personal use
Personal use licensing means that you can use that product for personal use. Print it out and hang on your walls, create a cute t-shirt, make a card for mothers day or create invitations to your baby shower. Personal use license allows you to create a vast range of items for yourself or to gift. You are not permitted to earn money under a personal use license. Personal use licenses are for individual use not business use.
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What is commercial use?
Commercial use licensing allows all of the same features as personal use however you are allowed to use that product on promotional items, to advertise (like on Billboards), or on merchandise you plan to sell.
Quick Tip for Personal vs Commercial Use License
For Fonts:
- Personal Use: Using your Cricut to make a tumbler that says “Best Mom Ever” for YOUR mom.
- Commerical Use: Using your Cricut to make a tumbler that says “Best Mom Ever” to sell to other people.
For Graphics and/or Images:
- Personal Use: Printing out to display at home
- Commercial Use: Printing out on T-Shirt you are selling
There is a wealth of information available online for you to learn more about licensing.
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