plumsauce - 12:09 am on Jul 8, 2007 (gmt 0)

There are contracts and clients where I would automatically assume off my own bat a non-compete because of the worth and weight of the contract both to myself and to the client.

This is an assumption that is unwarranted.

Exclusivity, like copyright assignment, access to source code and other such matters is a point for discussion, and, when granted, has a dollar value.

Whether it is thrown in as part of getting a contract is a matter between the parties. But, exclusivity has an opportunity cost to the grantor, and the grantor ought to be compensated.

In my mind, doing at least some work for other clients is a means of ensuring that there will be avenues to gain more work should the major client tank, or take a hissy fit over some other matter and pull the work. Having those contacts could put food on your table, never mind the water heater.

This is a distinct possibility since by playing the "loyalty" card she seems not to have grown up yet.