Meaning: This quote by Bill Budge, a renowned businessman and software developer, captures a sentiment that is reflective of the changing landscape of software consumption and distribution. In the early days of computing, software was often freely shared among users and developers, and the idea of purchasing software was somewhat foreign. However, as the software industry has evolved, the concept of buying software has become commonplace, with individuals and businesses regularly purchasing software to meet their needs.

The quote reflects a sense of wonder at the fact that people are willing to pay for something that was once considered freely available. It speaks to the transformative nature of the software industry, where the perception of software as a commodity has shifted from being an open and communal resource to a product that holds value and is worthy of financial investment.

Bill Budge, the author of the quote, is a significant figure in the history of software development. He is best known for creating some of the earliest and most influential video games and software applications for the Apple II computer in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His work contributed to the popularization of software as a commercial product and played a key role in shaping the early software industry.

In the early days of personal computing, software was often distributed through user groups, bulletin board systems, and other informal channels. This culture of freely sharing and distributing software was driven by a sense of community and collaboration among early computer enthusiasts. However, as the demand for software grew and the potential for commercialization became apparent, the industry underwent a significant transformation.

The rise of commercial software distribution brought about a shift in the perception of software as a product with intrinsic value. Developers and companies began to recognize the potential for generating revenue from their software products, leading to the widespread adoption of commercial licensing and distribution models. This shift also coincided with advancements in software development and distribution technologies, such as the introduction of packaged software, software stores, and online marketplaces.

The quote by Bill Budge reflects a sense of amazement at this transformation, highlighting the dramatic shift in attitudes towards software consumption and the willingness of consumers to pay for software products. It also underscores the evolving nature of the software industry and the broader impact of commercialization on the perception and distribution of software.

Today, the buying and selling of software is a multi-billion dollar industry, encompassing a wide range of products and services, from productivity applications and creative tools to enterprise software and cloud-based services. The prevalence of software as a commercial product is evident in the diverse array of software marketplaces, licensing models, and distribution channels that cater to the needs of individual consumers, businesses, and organizations.

The quote by Bill Budge serves as a reminder of the profound changes that have taken place in the software industry and the evolving relationship between software developers, distributors, and consumers. It is a testament to the enduring impact of commercialization on the software landscape and the ongoing innovation and creativity that continue to drive the industry forward.

In conclusion, Bill Budge's quote encapsulates a sense of wonder at the transformation of the software industry and the changing attitudes towards software consumption and distribution. It reflects the shift from a culture of freely sharing and distributing software to the widespread acceptance of software as a commercial product with intrinsic value. As the software industry continues to evolve, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the dynamic and multifaceted nature of software as a product and the enduring impact of commercialization on the industry.