While you wouldn't have to open up your PHP code, you would
most probably have to open your data model if it is in any way
related to the OpenACS data model. Since I'm guessing you'll be
using the users table and such, your entire data model will
probably be a derivative work of the OpenACS data model, and
you'll have to release that under the GPL if it is distributed.
Now, the big question is: is there going to be redistribution? If
you're doing this work for a company's internal use, there
probably *isn't* redistribution. But, if that company intends on
selling the end-product, or distributing it in any way, you'll have to
release the data model under the GPL. In fact, as the company
will probably continue to edit the data model, they have to be
aware of GPL issues as their product evolves, because they will
have to release subsequent versions under the GPL, if those
versions are in any way derived from the original data model.
That's the GPL: it protects the open-source aspect of the code
with significant power. Thus the controversy around it.
