RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORP
S-8, 1997-03-04
PREPACKAGED SOFTWARE
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<PAGE>
 
   As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March ___, 1997
                                                   Registration No. 333-_____
================================================================================

                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            Washington, D.C. 20549

                                   FORM S-8
                            REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                          THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

                         RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION
              (Exact name of issuer as specified in its charter)

       DELAWARE                                   54-1217099
(State or other jurisdiction of     (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)

                           2800 SAN TOMAS EXPRESSWAY
                          SANTA CLARA, CA  95051-0951
                   (Address of principal executive offices)

                         ____________________________

                             SQA 1995 STOCK PLAN
                    SQA 1995 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN
              SQA 1995 NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTOR STOCK OPTION PLAN
            SQA 1990 INCENTIVE AND NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION PLAN
                           RATIONAL 1997 STOCK PLAN

                           (Full title of the plans)

                         ____________________________

                                 PAUL D. LEVY
                            CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
                         RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION
                           2800 SAN TOMAS EXPRESSWAY
                          SANTA CLARA, CA  95051-0951
                                (408) 496-3600
           (Name, address and telephone number of agent for service)

                         ____________________________

                                   Copy to:
                              Frank Currie, Esq.
                               Tim Sparks, Esq.
                    Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C.
                              650 Page Mill Road
                          Palo Alto, California 94304

                         ____________________________

================================================================================

<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
======================================================================================================================


 Title of Securities to be Registered     Amount to be     Proposed Maximum      Proposed Maximum        Amount of
                                           Registered       Offering Price          Aggregate         Registration Fee
                                                             Per Share(1)        Offering Price(1)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>             <C>                   <C>                   <C>
 
Common Stock
 
SQA 1995 Stock Plan                            440,191        $28.125         $12,380,371.87         $ 3,751.63
 
SQA 1995 Employee Stock                         17,544        $28.125         $   493,425.00         $   149.52
 Purchase Plan
  
SQA 1995 Non-Employee Director                  46,440        $28.125         $ 1,306,125.00         $   395.80
 Stock Option Plan
 
SQA 1990 Incentive and Nonqualified            580,482        $28.125         $16,326,056.25         $ 4,947.29
 Stock Option Plan
 
Rational 1997 Stock Plan                     1,000,000        $28.125         $28,125,000.00         $ 8,522.73
                                            800,000 (2)
TOTAL                                                                                                $17,766.97
 ========================================================================================================================
</TABLE>

 (1) Estimated in accordance with Rule 457(h) solely for the purpose of
     computing the amount of the registration fee based on the prices of the
     Company's Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market on
     February 26, 1997.


 (2) The Rational 1997 Stock Plan allows for the issuance of shares available
     under the 1994 Stock Option Plan, which plan has been terminated.
     Currently, shares available under the 1994 Stock Option Plan total 800,000
     (the "1994 Plan Shares"). The 1994 Plan Shares have been previously
     registered on a Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-15015) and
     a registration fee was paid according to Rule 457 (c) upon filing of such
     Form S-8. Accordingly, the 1994 Plan Shares are not included in the
     calculation of the fee.

<PAGE>
 
                                 PART II

               INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
               --------------------------------------------------


Item 3.   Incorporation of Documents by Reference
- ------    ---------------------------------------

     Rational Software Corporation (the "Company") hereby incorporates by
reference in this registration statement the following documents:

     (a) The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
March 31, 1996.

     (b) The Registrant's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly 
periods ended June 30, 1996, (filed August 13, 1996), September 30, 1996 (filed
November 14, 1996), December 31, 1996 (filed February 14, 1997), and the
Registrant's current report on Form 8-K (filed February 27, 1997) filed with
the Commission.

     (c) All other reports filed pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act") since the end
of the fiscal year covered by the registrant document referred to in (a) above.

     (d) The description of the Company's Common Stock contained in the
Company's Registration Statement on Form 8-A, filed pursuant to Section 12 of
the Exchange Act, including any amendment or report filed for the purpose of
updating such description.

     The Company hereby incorporates by reference in this Registration Statement
the contents of the Company's Registration Statements on Form S-8 (Registration
Nos. 33-77382, 33-85906, 33-97044, 333-15015, and 333-15007).

     All documents subsequently filed by the Company pursuant to Sections 13(a),
13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act, prior to the filing of a post-effective
amendment to this registration statement which indicates that all securities
offered hereby have been sold or which deregisters all securities remaining
unsold, shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference in this registration
statement and to be a part hereof from the date of filing of such documents.

Item 4.   Description of Securities
- ------    -------------------------

          Not applicable.

Item 5.   Interests of Named Experts and Counsel
- ------    --------------------------------------

          Not applicable.

Item 6.   Indemnification of Directors and Officers
- ------    -----------------------------------------

          Incorporated by reference to the corresponding item of the
registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 33-97044).

Item 7.   Exemption From Registration Claimed
- ------    -----------------------------------

          Not applicable.

<PAGE>
 
Item 8.   Exhibits
- ------    --------

          4.1 SQA 1995 Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Registration
              Statement on Form S-8, File No. 333-01074)

          4.2 SQA 1995 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference
              to Registration Statement on Form S-8, File No. 333-01074)

          4.3 SQA 1995 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Purchase Plan
              (incorporated by reference to Registration Statement on Form S-8,
              File No. 333-01074)

          4.4 SQA 1990 Incentive and Nonqualified Stock Option Plan
              (incorporated by reference to Registration Statement on Form S-
              8, File No. 333-01074)

          4.5 Rational 1997 Stock Plan and Agreements

          5.1 Opinion of counsel as to legality of securities being registered

         23.1  Consent of Independent Auditors

         23.2  Consent of Counsel (contained in Exhibit 5.1)

         24.1  Power of Attorney (see II-5)

Item 9.   Undertakings
- ------    ------------

          (a) Rule 415 Offering   The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
              -----------------                                                

              (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being
made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

                  (i) To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of
the Securities Act of 1933;

                 (ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising
after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-
effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent
a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement;

                (iii) To include any material information with respect to the
plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or
any material change to such information in the registration statement;

     Provided, however, that paragraphs (a)(1)(i) and (a)(1)(ii) do not apply if
     --------  -------                                                          
the registration statement is on Form S-3 ((S)239.13 of this chapter) or Form S-
8 ((S)239.16(b) of this chapter), and the information required to be included in
a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in periodic reports
filed by the registrant pursuant to section 13 or section 15(d) of the Exchange
Act that are incorporated by reference in the registration statement.


                                     II-2
<PAGE>
 
              (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be
a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.

              (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective
amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
termination of the offering.

     (b) Filing incorporating subsequent Exchange Act documents by reference
         -------------------------------------------------------------------

         The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the
registrant's annual report pursuant to section 13(a) or section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan's
annual report pursuant to section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is
incorporated by reference in the registration statement shall be deemed to be a
new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.

     (h) Request for acceleration of effective date or filing of registration
         --------------------------------------------------------------------
         statement on Form S-8
         ---------------------

         Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of
the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the
registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act
and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses
incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant
in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of
such issue.

                                     II-3
<PAGE>
 
                                   SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the
requirements for filing on Form S-8 and has duly caused this registration
statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized, in the City of Santa Clara, State of California, on February 26,
1997.


                              RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION


                              By: /s/ Robert T. Bond
                                 -------------------
                                 Robert T. Bond
                                 Senior Vice President,
                                 Chief Operating Officer
                                 Chief Financial Officer and Secretary

                                     II-4
<PAGE>
 
                               POWER OF ATTORNEY

     KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that the person whose signature appears
below constitutes and appoints Robert T. Bond, his attorney-in-fact, with the
power of substitution, for him in any and all capacities, to sign any amendments
to this Registration Statement on Form S-8, and to file the same, with exhibits
thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that each of said
attorneys-in-fact, or his substitute or substitutes, may do or cause to be done
by virtue hereof.

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

         Signature                                Title                             Date
- ----------------------------   -------------------------------------------     ------------------
<S>                            <C>                                            <C>
      /s/ PAUL D. LEVY         Chief Executive Officer and                     February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------   Chairman of the Board
        Paul D. Levy           (Principal Executive Officer)

     /s/ ROBERT T. BOND        Senior Vice President, Chief Operating          February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------   Officer, Chief Financial Officer and
       Robert T. Bond          Secretary (Principal Financial Officer)

   /s/ TIMOTHY A. BRENNAN      Vice President, Finance and Administration      February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------   (Principal Accounting Officer)
     Timothy A. Brennan

   /s/ MICHAEL T. DEVLIN       President and Director                          February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------
     Michael T. Devlin

   /s/ JAMES S. CAMPBELL       Director                                        February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------
     James S. Campbell

   /s/ DANIEL H. CASE III      Director                                        February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------
     Daniel H. Case III

    /s/ LESLIE G. DENEND       Director                                        February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------
      Leslie G. Denend

    /s/ JOHN E. MONTAGUE       Director                                        February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------
      John E. Montague

 /s/ ALLISON R. SCHLEICHER     Director                                        February 26, 1997
- ----------------------------
   Allison R. Schleicher
 </TABLE>
                                     II-5
<PAGE>
 
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX
 
  Exhibit
   Number
- ------------

 4.5         Rational 1997 Stock Plan and Agreements

 5.1         Opinion of counsel as to legality of securities
             being registered

23.1         Consent of Independent Auditors

23.2         Consent of Counsel (contained in Exhibit 5.1)

24.1         Power of Attorney (see II-5)


                                     II-6

<PAGE>
 
                                                                 EXHIBIT 4.5
                                                                 -----------


                         RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION
                                1997 STOCK PLAN



    1.  Purposes of the Plan.  The purposes of this Stock Plan are:
        --------------------                                       

         .  to attract and retain the best available personnel for positions of
            substantial responsibility,

        .   to provide additional incentive to Employees, Directors and
            Consultants, and

        .   to promote the success of the Company's business.

    Options granted under the Plan may be Incentive Stock Options or
Nonstatutory Stock Options, as determined by the Administrator at the time of
grant.  Stock Purchase Rights may also be granted under the Plan.

    2.  Definitions.  As used herein, the following definitions shall apply:
        -----------                                                         

        (a) "Administrator" means the Board or any of its Committees as shall be
             -------------                                                      
administering the Plan, in accordance with Section 4 of the Plan.

        (b) "Applicable Laws" means the requirements relating to the
             ---------------                                        
administration of stock option plans under U. S. state corporate laws, U.S.
federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation
system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of
any foreign country or jurisdiction where Options or Stock Purchase Rights are,
or will be, granted under the Plan.

        (c) "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.
             -----                                              

        (d) "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
             ----                                                      

        (e) "Committee"  means a committee of Directors appointed by the Board
             ---------                                                        
in accordance with Section 4 of the Plan.

        (f) "Common Stock" means the common stock of the Company.
             ------------                                        

        (g) "Company" means Rational Software Corporation, a Delaware
             -------                                                 
corporation.

        (h) "Consultant" means any person, including an advisor, engaged by the
             ----------                                                        
Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity.

        (i) "Director" means a member of the Board.
             --------                              
<PAGE>
 
        (j) "Disability" means total and permanent disability as defined in
             ----------                                                    
Section 22(e)(3) of the Code.

        (k) "Employee" means any person, including Officers and Directors,
             --------                                                     
employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.  A Service
Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of
absence approved by the Company or (ii) transfers between locations of the
Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor.
For purposes of Incentive Stock Options, no such leave may exceed ninety days,
unless reemployment upon expiration of such leave is guaranteed by statute or
contract.  If reemployment upon expiration of a leave of absence approved by the
Company is not so guaranteed, on the 181st day of such leave any Incentive Stock
Option held by the Optionee shall cease to be treated as an Incentive Stock
Option and shall be treated for tax purposes as a Nonstatutory Stock Option.
Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director's fee by the Company
shall be sufficient to constitute "employment" by the Company.

        (l) "Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
             ------------                                               
amended.

        (m) "Fair Market Value" means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock
             -----------------                                                  
determined as follows:

            (i)   If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock
exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq
National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its
Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the
closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system for
the last market trading day prior to the time of determination, as reported in
The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems
reliable;

            (ii)  If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized
securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, the Fair Market Value of
a Share of Common Stock shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked
prices for the Common Stock on the last market trading day prior to the day of
determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as
the Administrator deems reliable; or

            (iii) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock,
the Fair Market Value shall be determined in good faith by the Administrator.

        (n) "Incentive Stock Option" means an Option intended to qualify as an
             ----------------------                                           
incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the
regulations promulgated thereunder.

        (o) "Nonstatutory Stock Option" means an Option not intended to qualify
             -------------------------                                         
as an Incentive Stock Option.

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
        (p) "Notice of Grant" means a written or electronic notice evidencing
             ---------------                                                 
certain terms and conditions of an individual Option or Stock Purchase Right
grant.  The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement.

        (q) "Officer" means a person who is an officer of the Company within the
             -------                                                            
meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations
promulgated thereunder.

        (r) "Option" means a stock option granted pursuant to the Plan.
             ------                                                    

        (s) "Option Agreement" means an agreement between the Company and an
             ----------------                                               
Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of an individual Option grant.  The
Option Agreement is subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

        (t) "Option Exchange Program" means a program whereby outstanding
             ----------------------- 
Options are surrendered in exchange for Options with a lower exercise price.

        (u) "Optioned Stock" means the Common Stock subject to an Option or
             --------------                                                
Stock Purchase Right.

        (v) "Optionee" means the holder of an outstanding Option or Stock
             --------                                                    
Purchase Right granted under the Plan.

        (w) "Parent" means a "parent corporation," whether now or hereafter
             ------                                                        
existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.

        (x) "Plan" means this 1997 Stock Option Plan.
             ----                                    

        (y) "Restricted Stock" means shares of Common Stock acquired pursuant to
             ----------------
a grant of Stock Purchase Rights under Section 11 of the Plan.

        (z) "Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement" means a written agreement
             -----------------------------------                           
between the Company and the Optionee evidencing the terms and restrictions
applying to stock purchased under a Stock Purchase Right.  The Restricted Stock
Purchase Agreement is subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and the
Notice of Grant.

        (aa) "Rule 16b-3" means Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act or any successor
              ----------
to Rule 16b-3, as in effect when discretion is being exercised with respect
to the Plan.

        (bb) "Section 16(b)" means Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.
              -------------                                          

        (cc) "Service Provider" means an Employee, Director or Consultant.
             ----------------                                            

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
        (dd) "Share" means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in
              -----
accordance with Section 13 of the Plan.

        (ee) "Stock Purchase Right" means the right to purchase Common Stock
              --------------------                                          
pursuant to Section 11 of the Plan, as evidenced by a Notice of Grant.

        (ff) "Subsidiary" means a "subsidiary corporation", whether now or
              ----------                                                  
hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.

    3.  Stock Subject to the Plan.  Subject to the provisions of Section 13 of
        -------------------------                                             
the Plan, the maximum aggregate number of Shares which may be optioned and sold
under the Plan is 1,000,000 Shares,plus any unused Shares and any forfeited
Shares.  For purposes of this Section 3, (i) "unused Shares" means Shares
reserved for issuance but not covered by grants under the1994 Stock Option Plan
(the "1994 Plan") (which 1994 Plan shall be terminated as of the effective date
of the Plan), and (ii) "forfeited Shares" means any Shares covered by grants
under the 1994 Plan that are not issued to participants or that are returned to
the Company upon forfeiture of such Shares.

        If an Option or Stock Purchase Right expires or becomes unexercisable
without having been exercised in full, or is surrendered pursuant to an Option
Exchange Program, the unpurchased Shares which were subject thereto shall become
available for future grant or sale under the Plan (unless the Plan has
terminated); provided, however, that Shares that have actually been issued under
             --------                                                           
the Plan, whether upon exercise of an Option or Right, shall not be returned to
the Plan and shall not become available for future distribution under the Plan,
except that if Shares of Restricted Stock are repurchased by the Company at
their original purchase price, such Shares shall become available for future
grant under the Plan.

    4.  Administration of the Plan.
        -------------------------- 

        (a) Procedure.
            --------- 

            (i)   Multiple Administrative Bodies. The Plan may be administered
                ------------------------------                                  
by different Committees with respect to different groups of Service Providers.

            (ii)  Section 162(m). To the extent that the Administrator
                 --------------
determines it to be desirable to qualify Options granted hereunder as
"performance-based compensation" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the
Code, the Plan shall be administered by a Committee of two or more "outside
directors" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code.

            (iii) Rule 16b-3. To the extent desirable to qualify transactions
                  ----------
hereunder as exempt under Rule 16b-3, the transactions contemplated hereunder
shall be structured to satisfy the requirements for exemption under Rule 16b-3.

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
            (iv)  Other Administration. Other than as provided above, the Plan
shall be administered by (A) the Board or (B) a Committee, which committee
shall be constituted to satisfy Applicable Laws.

        (b) Powers of the Administrator.  Subject to the provisions of the Plan,
            ---------------------------                                         
and in the case of a Committee, subject to the specific duties delegated by the
Board to such Committee, the Administrator shall have the authority, in its
discretion:

            (i)    to determine the Fair Market Value;

            (ii)   to select the Service Providers to whom Options and Stock
Purchase Rights may be granted hereunder;

            (iii)  to determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be
covered by each Option and Stock Purchase Right granted hereunder;

            (iv)   to approve forms of agreement for use under the Plan;

            (v)    to determine the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with
the terms of the Plan, of any Option or Stock Purchase Right granted hereunder.
Such terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, the exercise price,
the time or times when Options or Stock Purchase Rights may be exercised (which
may be based on performance criteria), any vesting acceleration or waiver of
forfeiture restrictions, and any restriction or limitation regarding any Option
or Stock Purchase Right of the shares of Common Stock relating thereto, based in
each case on such factors as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall
determine;

            (vi)   to reduce the exercise price of any Option or Stock Purchase
Right to the then current Fair Market Value if the Fair Market Value of the
Common Stock covered by such Option or Stock Purchase Right shall have declined
since the date the Option or Stock Purchase Right was granted;

            (vii)  to institute an Option Exchange Program;

            (viii) to construe and interpret the terms of the Plan and awards
granted pursuant to the Plan;

            (ix)   to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations
relating to the Plan, including rules and regulations relating to sub-plans
established for the purpose of qualifying for preferred tax treatment under
foreign tax laws;

            (x)    to modify or amend each Option or Stock Purchase Right
(subject to Section 15(c) of the Plan), including the discretionary authority to
extend the post-termination exercisability period of Options longer than is
otherwise provided for in the Plan;

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
            (xi)   to allow Optionees to satisfy withholding tax obligations by
electing to have the Company withhold from the Shares to be issued upon exercise
of an Option or Stock Purchase Right that number of Shares having a Fair Market
Value equal to the amount required to be withheld. The Fair Market Value of the
Shares to be withheld shall be determined on the date that the amount of tax to
be withheld is to be determined. All elections by an Optionee to have Shares
withheld for this purpose shall be made in such form and under such conditions
as the Administrator may deem necessary or advisable;

            (xii)  to authorize any person to execute on behalf of the Company
any instrument required to effect the grant of an Option or Stock Purchase Right
previously granted by the Administrator;

            (xiii) to make all other determinations deemed necessary or
advisable for administering the Plan.

        (c) Effect of Administrator's Decision.  The Administrator's decisions,
            ----------------------------------                                 
determinations and interpretations shall be final and binding on all Optionees
and any other holders of Options or Stock Purchase Rights.

    5.  Eligibility.  Nonstatutory Stock Options and Stock Purchase Rights may
        -----------                                                           
be granted to Service Providers.  Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to
Employees.

    6.  Limitations.
        ----------- 

        (a) Each Option shall be designated in the Option Agreement as either an
Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option.  However, notwithstanding
such designation, to the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value of the
Shares with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the
first time by the Optionee during any calendar year (under all plans of the
Company and any Parent or Subsidiary) exceeds $100,000, such Options shall be
treated as Nonstatutory Stock Options.  For purposes of this Section 6(a),
Incentive Stock Options shall be taken into account in the order in which they
were granted.  The Fair Market Value of the Shares shall be determined as of the
time the Option with respect to such Shares is granted.

        (b) Neither the Plan nor any Option or Stock Purchase Right shall confer
upon an Optionee any right with respect to continuing the Optionee's
relationship as a Service Provider with the Company, nor shall they interfere in
any way with the Optionee's right or the Company's right to terminate such
relationship at any time, with or without cause.

        (c) The following limitations shall apply to grants of Options:

            (i)    No Service Provider shall be granted, in any fiscal year of
the Company, Options to purchase more than 500,000 Shares (as appropriately
adjusted pursuant to Section 13(a) ("Changes in Capitalization") hereof.

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
            (ii)   In connection with his or her initial service, a Service
Provider may be granted Options to purchase up to an additional 500,000 Shares
which shall not count against the limit set forth in subsection (i) above (as
appropriately adjusted pursuant to Section 13(a) ("Changes in Capitalization")
hereof.

            (iii)  The foregoing limitations shall be adjusted
proportionately in connection with any change in the Company's capitalization as
described in Section 13.

            (iv)   If an Option is cancelled in the same fiscal year of the
Company in which it was granted (other than in connection with a transaction
described in Section 13), the cancelled Option will be counted against the
limits set forth in subsections (i) and (ii) above. For this purpose, if the
exercise price of an Option is reduced, the transaction will be treated as a
cancellation of the Option and the grant of a new Option.

    7.  Term of Plan.  Subject to Section 19 of the Plan, the Plan shall become
        ------------                                                           
effective upon its adoption by the Board.  It shall continue in effect for a
term of ten (10) years unless terminated earlier under Section 15 of the Plan.

    8.  Term of Option.  The term of each Option shall be stated in the Option
        --------------                                                        
Agreement.  In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the term shall be ten (10)
years from the date of grant or such shorter term as may be provided in the
Option Agreement.  Moreover, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to
an Optionee who, at the time the Incentive Stock Option is granted, owns stock
representing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of
all classes of stock of the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary, the term of the
Incentive Stock Option shall be five (5) years from the date of grant or such
shorter term as may be provided in the Option Agreement.

    9.  Option Exercise Price and Consideration.
        --------------------------------------- 

        (a) Exercise Price.  The per share exercise price for the Shares to be
            --------------                                                    
issued pursuant to exercise of an Option shall be determined by the
Administrator, subject to the following:

            (i)    In the case of an Incentive Stock Option

                   (A) granted to an Employee who, at the time the Incentive
Stock Option is granted, owns stock representing more than ten percent (10%) of
the voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Parent or
Subsidiary, the per Share exercise price shall be no less than 110% of the Fair
Market Value per Share on the date of grant.

                   (B) granted to any Employee other than an Employee described
in paragraph (A) immediately above, the per Share exercise price shall be no
less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of grant.

                                      -7-
<PAGE>
 
            (ii)   In the case of a Nonstatutory Stock Option, the per Share
exercise price shall be determined by the Administrator. In the case of a
Nonstatutory Stock Option intended to qualify as "performance-based
compensation" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code, the per Share
exercise price shall be no less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on
the date of grant.

            (iii)  Notwithstanding the foregoing, Options may be granted with a
per Share exercise price of less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on
the date of grant pursuant to a merger or other corporate transaction.

        (b) Waiting Period and Exercise Dates.  At the time an Option is
            ---------------------------------
granted, the Administrator shall fix the period within which the Option may be
exercised and shall determine any conditions which must be satisfied before the
Option may be exercised.

        (c) Form of Consideration.  The Administrator shall determine the
            ---------------------                                        
acceptable form of consideration for exercising an Option, including the method
of payment.  In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the Administrator shall
determine the acceptable form of consideration at the time of grant.  Such
consideration may consist entirely of:

            (i)    cash;

            (ii)   check;

            (iii)  promissory note;

            (iv)   other Shares which (A) in the case of Shares acquired upon
exercise of an option, have been owned by the Optionee for more than six months
on the date of surrender, and (B) have a Fair Market Value on the date of
surrender equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Shares as to which said
Option shall be exercised;

            (v)    consideration received by the Company under a cashless
exercise program implemented by the Company in connection with the Plan;

            (vi)   a reduction in the amount of any Company liability to the
Optionee, including any liability attributable to the Optionee's participation
in any Company-sponsored deferred compensation program or arrangement;

            (vii)  any combination of the foregoing methods of payment; or

            (viii) such other consideration and method of payment for the
issuance of Shares to the extent permitted by Applicable Laws.

    10. Exercise of Option.
        ------------------ 

                                      -8-
<PAGE>
 
        (a) Procedure for Exercise; Rights as a Shareholder. Any Option granted
            -----------------------------------------------                    
hereunder shall be exercisable according to the terms of the Plan and at such
times and under such conditions as determined by the Administrator and set forth
in the Option Agreement.  Unless the Administrator provides otherwise, vesting
of Options granted hereunder shall be tolled during any unpaid leave of absence.
An Option may not be exercised for a fraction of a Share.

            An Option shall be deemed exercised when the Company receives: (i)
written or electronic notice of exercise (in accordance with the Option
Agreement) from the person entitled to exercise the Option, and (ii) full
payment for the Shares with respect to which the Option is exercised.  Full
payment may consist of any consideration and method of payment authorized by the
Administrator and permitted by the Option Agreement and the Plan.  Shares issued
upon exercise of an Option shall be issued in the name of the Optionee or, if
requested by the Optionee, in the name of the Optionee and his or her spouse.
Until the Shares are issued (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books
of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company), no right
to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a shareholder shall exist
with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option.
The Company shall issue (or cause to be issued) such Shares promptly after the
Option is exercised.  No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right
for which the record date is prior to the date the Shares are issued, except as
provided in Section 13 of the Plan.

            Exercising an Option in any manner shall decrease the number of
Shares thereafter available, both for purposes of the Plan and for sale under
the Option, by the number of Shares as to which the Option is exercised.

        (b) Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider.  If an Optionee
            -------------------------------------------------                 
ceases to be a Service Provider, other than upon the Optionee's death or
Disability, the Optionee may exercise his or her Option within such period of
time as is specified in the Option Agreement to the extent that the Option is
vested on the date of termination (but in no event later than the expiration of
the term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement).  In the absence
of a specified time in the Option Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable
for three (3) months following the Optionee's termination.  If, on the date of
termination, the Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the
Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan.
If, after termination, the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within
the time specified by the Administrator, the Option shall terminate, and the
Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan.

        (c) Disability of Optionee.  If an Optionee ceases to be a Service
            ----------------------                                        
Provider as a result of the Optionee's Disability, the Optionee may exercise his
or her Option within such period of time as is specified in the Option Agreement
to the extent the Option is vested on the date of termination (but in no event
later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Option
Agreement).  In the absence of a specified time in the Option Agreement, the
Option shall remain exercisable for twelve (12) months following the Optionee's
termination.  If, on the date of termination, the Optionee is not vested as to
his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the 
Option

                                      -9-
<PAGE>
 
shall revert to the Plan. If, after termination, the Optionee does not exercise
his or her Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate,
and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan.

        (d) Death of Optionee. If an Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the
            -----------------
Option may be exercised within such period of time as is specified in the Option
Agreement (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of such Option
as set forth in the Notice of Grant), by the Optionee's estate or by a person
who acquires the right to exercise the Option by bequest or inheritance, but
only to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of death.  In the
absence of a specified time in the Option Agreement, the Option shall remain
exercisable for twelve (12) months following the Optionee's termination.  If, at
the time of death, the Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option,
the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall immediately
revert to the Plan.  The Option may be exercised by the executor or
administrator of the Optionee's estate or, if none, by the person(s) entitled to
exercise the Option under the Optionee's will or the laws of descent or
distribution.  If the Option is not so exercised within the time specified
herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall
revert to the Plan.

        (e) Buyout Provisions. The Administrator may at any time offer to buy
            -----------------
for a payment in cash or Shares an Option previously granted based on such terms
and conditions as the Administrator shall establish and communicate to the
Optionee at the time that such offer is made.

    11. Stock Purchase Rights.
        --------------------- 

        (a) Rights to Purchase. Stock Purchase Rights may be issued either
            ------------------ 
alone, in addition to, or in tandem with other awards granted under the Plan
and/or cash awards made outside of the Plan. After the Administrator determines
that it will offer Stock Purchase Rights under the Plan, it shall advise the
offeree in writing or electronically, by means of a Notice of Grant, of the
terms, conditions and restrictions related to the offer, including the number of
Shares that the offeree shall be entitled to purchase, the price to be paid, and
the time within which the offeree must accept such offer. The offer shall be
accepted by execution of a Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement in the form
determined by the Administrator.

        (b) Repurchase Option. Unless the Administrator determines otherwise,
            -----------------
the Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement shall grant the Company a repurchase
option exercisable upon the voluntary or involuntary termination of the 
purchaser's service with the Company for any reason (including death or
Disability). The purchase price for Shares repurchased pursuant to the
Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement shall be the original price paid by the
purchaser and may be paid by cancellation of any indebtedness of the purchaser
to the Company. The repurchase option shall lapse at a rate determined by the
Administrator.

        (c) Other Provisions.  The Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement shall
            ----------------                                                
contain such other terms, provisions and conditions not inconsistent with the
Plan as may be determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion.

                                     -10-
<PAGE>
 
        (d) Rights as a Shareholder. Once the Stock Purchase Right is exercised,
            -----------------------   
the purchaser shall have the rights equivalent to those of a shareholder, and
shall be a shareholder when his or her purchase is entered upon the records
of the duly authorized transfer agent of the Company. No adjustment will be
made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the
date the Stock Purchase Right is exercised,except as provided in Section 13
of the Plan.

    12. Non-Transferability of Options and Stock Purchase Rights.  Unless
        --------------------------------------------------------         
determined otherwise by the Administrator, an Option or Stock Purchase Right may
not be sold, pledged, assigned, hypothecated, transferred, or disposed of in any
manner other than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be
exercised, during the lifetime of the Optionee, only by the Optionee.  If the
Administrator makes an Option or Stock Purchase Right transferable, such Option
or Stock Purchase Right shall contain such additional terms and conditions as
the Administrator deems appropriate.

    13. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Dissolution, Merger or Asset
        ------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Sale.
        ---- 

        (a) Changes in Capitalization.  Subject to any required action by the
            -------------------------                                        
shareholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock covered by
each outstanding Option and Stock Purchase Right, and the number of shares of
Common Stock which have been authorized for issuance under the Plan but as to
which no Options or Stock Purchase Rights have yet been granted or which have
been returned to the Plan upon cancellation or expiration of an Option or Stock
Purchase Right, as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by each
such outstanding Option or Stock Purchase Right and the limitations on issuance
as set forth in Sections 6(c)(i) and 6(c)(ii) hereof, shall be proportionately
adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common
Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend,
combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or
decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt
of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any
convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been "effected
without receipt of consideration."  Such adjustment shall be made by the Board,
whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive.
Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of
stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class,
shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to,
the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to an Option or Stock
Purchase Right.

        (b) Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of the proposed dissolution
            -------------------------- 
or liquidation of the Company, the Administrator shall notify each Optionee as
soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction.
The Administrator in its discretion may provide for an Optionee to have the
right to exercise his or her Option until ten (10) days prior to such
transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as
to which the Option would not otherwise be exercisable.  In addition, the
Administrator may provide that any Company repurchase option applicable to any
Shares purchased upon exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right shall lapse
as to all such Shares, provided the proposed dissolution or liquidation takes
place at the time and in the manner contemplated. To the extent it has not been
previously exercised, an Option or Stock Purchase Right will terminate
immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed action.

                                     -11-
<PAGE>
 
        (c) Merger or Asset Sale. In the event of a merger of the Company with
            --------------------        
or into another corporation, or the sale of substantially all of the assets of
the Company, each outstanding Option and Stock Purchase Right shall be assumed
or an equivalent option or right substituted by the successor corporation or a
Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation. In the event that the
successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option or Stock
Purchase Right, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise
the Option or Stock Purchase Right as to all of the Optioned Stock, including
Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable. If an Option
or Stock Purchase Right becomes fully vested and exercisable in lieu of
assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the
Administrator shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the
Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be fully vested and exercisable for a
period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option or
Stock Purchase Right shall terminate upon the expiration of such period. For the
purposes of this paragraph, the Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be
considered assumed if, following the merger or sale of assets, the option or
right confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock
subject to the Option or Stock Purchase Right immediately prior to the merger or
sale of assets, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or
property) received in the merger or sale of assets by holders of Common Stock
for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders
were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if
such consideration received in the merger or sale of assets is not solely common
stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with
the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be
received upon the exercise of the Option or Stock Purchase Right, for each Share
of Optioned Stock subject to the Option or Stock Purchase Right, to be solely
common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market
value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the
merger or sale of assets.

    14. Date of Grant.  The date of grant of an Option or Stock Purchase Right
        -------------                                                         
shall be, for all purposes, the date on which the Administrator makes the
determination granting such Option or Stock Purchase Right, or such other later
date as is determined by the Administrator.  Notice of the determination shall
be provided to each Optionee within a reasonable time after the date of such
grant.

    15. Amendment and Termination of the Plan.
        ------------------------------------- 

        (a) Amendment and Termination.  The Board may at any time amend, alter,
            -------------------------                                          
suspend or terminate the Plan.

        (b) Shareholder Approval.  The Company shall obtain shareholder approval
            --------------------                                                
of any Plan amendment to the extent necessary and desirable to comply with
Applicable Laws.

        (c) Effect of Amendment or Termination.  No amendment, alteration,
            ----------------------------------                            
suspension or termination of the Plan shall impair the rights of any Optionee,
unless mutually agreed otherwise between the Optionee and the Administrator,
which agreement must be in writing and signed by the
<PAGE>
 
Optionee and the Company. Termination of the Plan shall not affect the
Administrator's ability to exercise the powers granted to it hereunder with
respect to Options granted under the Plan prior to the date of such termination.

    16. Conditions Upon Issuance of Shares.
        ---------------------------------- 

        (a) Legal Compliance. Shares shall not be issued pursuant to the
            ----------------              

exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right unless the exercise of such Option
or Stock Purchase Right and the issuance and delivery of such Shares shall
comply with Applicable Laws and shall be further subject to the approval of
counsel for the Company with respect to such compliance.

        (b) Investment Representations.  As a condition to the exercise of an
            --------------------------                                       
Option or Stock Purchase Right, the Company may require the person exercising
such Option or Stock Purchase Right to represent and warrant at the time of any
such exercise that the Shares are being purchased only for investment and
without any present intention to sell or distribute such Shares if, in the
opinion of counsel for the Company, such a representation is required.

    17. Inability to Obtain Authority. The inability of the Company to
        -----------------------------
obtain authority from any regulatory body having jurisdiction, which authority
is deemed by the Company's counsel to be necessary to the lawful issuance and
sale of any Shares hereunder, shall relieve the Company of any liability in
respect of the failure to issue or sell such Shares as to which such requisite
authority shall not have been obtained.

    18. Reservation of Shares.  The Company, during the term of this Plan, will
        ---------------------                                                  
at all times reserve and keep available such number of Shares as shall be
sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the Plan.

    19. Shareholder Approval.  The Plan shall be subject to approval by the
        --------------------                                               
shareholders of the Company within twelve (12) months after the date the Plan is
adopted.  Such shareholder approval shall be obtained in the manner and to the
degree required under Applicable Laws.

                                     -13-
<PAGE>
 
                           RATIONAL 1997 STOCK PLAN

                            STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT


     Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Plan shall have
the same defined meanings in this Option Agreement.

I.  NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT
    ----------------------------

[Optionee's Name and Address]

     You have been granted an option to purchase Common Stock of the Company,
subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Option Agreement, as
follows:

     Grant Number                       _________________________            
                                                                            
     Date of Grant                      _________________________           
                                                                            
     Vesting Commencement Date          _________________________           
                                                                            
     Exercise Price per Share           $________________________           
                                                                            
     Total Number of Shares Granted     _________________________           
                                                                            
     Total Exercise Price               $_________________________          
                                                                            
     Type of Option:                         ___   Incentive Stock Option   
                                                                            
                                             ___   Nonstatutory Stock Option

     Term/Expiration Date:                   _________________________


   Vesting Schedule:
   ---------------- 

     This Option may be exercised, in whole or in part, in accordance with the
following schedule:

     [25% of the Shares subject to the Option shall vest twelve months after the
Vesting Commencement Date, and 1/48 of the Shares subject to the Option shall
vest each month thereafter, subject to the Optionee continuing to be a Service
Provider on such dates].
<PAGE>
 
     Termination Period:
     ------------------ 

     This Option may be exercised for _____ [days/months] after Optionee ceases
to be a Service Provider. Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this
Option may be exercised for such longer period as provided in the Plan. In no
event shall this Option be exercised later than the Term/Expiration Date as
provided above.

II. AGREEMENT
    ---------

1.        Grant of Option.  The Plan Administrator of the Company hereby grants 
          ---------------     
     to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this
     Agreement (the "Optionee") an option (the "Option") to purchase the number
     of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per
     share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the "Exercise Price"), subject to
     the terms and conditions of the Plan, which is incorporated herein by
     reference. Subject to Section 15(c) of the Plan, in the event of a conflict
     between the terms and conditions of the Plan and the terms and conditions
     of this Option Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall
     prevail.

          If designated in the Notice of Grant as an Incentive Stock Option
("ISO"), this Option is intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option under
Section 422 of the Code. However, if this Option is intended to be an Incentive
Stock Option, to the extent that it exceeds the $100,000 rule of Code Section
422(d) it shall be treated as a Nonstatutory Stock Option ("NSO").

2.        Exercise of Option.
          ------------------ 

                    (a)       Right to Exercise.  This Option is exercisable 
                              ----------------- 
                         during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule
                         set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable
                         provisions of the Plan and this Option Agreement.

                    (b)       Method of Exercise.  This Option is exercisable by
                              ------------------                                
                         delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as
                         Exhibit A (the "Exercise Notice"), which shall state
                         the election to exercise the Option, the number of
                         Shares in respect of which the Option is being
                         exercised (the "Exercised Shares"), and such other
                         representations and agreements as may be required by
                         the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Plan. The
                         Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and
                         delivered to ___________ of the Company. The Exercise
                         Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate
                         Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares. This Option
                         shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the
                         Company of such 
<PAGE>
 
                         fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such
                         aggregate Exercise Price.

          No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option
unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws. Assuming such
compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered
transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to
such Exercised Shares.

3.        Method of Payment.  Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be 
          -----------------  
     by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the
     Optionee:

                    (a)       cash; or

                    (b)       check; or

                    (c)       consideration received by the Company under a
                         cashless exercise program implemented by the Company in
                         connection with the Plan; or

                    (d)       surrender of other Shares which (i) in the case of
                         Shares acquired upon exercise of an option, have been
                         owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on
                         the date of surrender, AND (ii) have a Fair Market
                         Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate
                         Exercise Price of the Exercised Shares


4.        Non-Transferability of Option.  This Option may not be transferred in 
          ----------------------------- 
     any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution
     and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee.
     The terms of the Plan and this Option Agreement shall be binding upon the
     executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee.

5.        Term of Option.  This Option may be exercised only within the term set
          --------------
     out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in
     accordance with the Plan and the terms of this Option Agreement.

6.        Tax Consequences.  Some of the federal tax consequences relating to 
          ----------------       
     this Option, as of the date of this Option, are set forth below. THIS
     SUMMARY IS NECESSARILY INCOMPLETE, AND THE TAX LAWS AND REGULATIONS ARE
     SUBJECT TO CHANGE. THE OPTIONEE SHOULD CONSULT A TAX ADVISER BEFORE
     EXERCISING THIS OPTION OR DISPOSING OF THE SHARES.
<PAGE>
 
                    (a)       Exercising the Option.
                              --------------------- 

                         (i)       Nonstatutory Stock Option.  The Optionee may 
                                   -------------------------    
                              incur regular federal income tax liability upon
                              exercise of a NSO. The Optionee will be treated as
                              having received compensation income (taxable at
                              ordinary income tax rates) equal to the excess, if
                              any, of the Fair Market Value of the Exercised
                              Shares on the date of exercise over their
                              aggregate Exercise Price. If the Optionee is an
                              Employee or a former Employee, the Company will be
                              required to withhold from his or her compensation
                              or collect from Optionee and pay to the applicable
                              taxing authorities an amount in cash equal to a
                              percentage of this compensation income at the time
                              of exercise, and may refuse to honor the exercise
                              and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding
                              amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise.

                                   (ii)      Incentive Stock Option.  If this
                                             ----------------------          
                                        Option qualifies as an ISO, the Optionee
                                        will have no regular federal income tax
                                        liability upon its exercise, although
                                        the excess, if any, of the Fair Market
                                        Value of the Exercised Shares on the
                                        date of exercise over their aggregate
                                        Exercise Price will be treated as an
                                        adjustment to alternative minimum
                                        taxable income for federal tax purposes
                                        and may subject the Optionee to
                                        alternative minimum tax in the year of
                                        exercise. In the event that the Optionee
                                        ceases to be an Employee but remains a
                                        Service Provider, any Incentive Stock
                                        Option of the Optionee that remains
                                        unexercised shall cease to qualify as an
                                        Incentive Stock Option and will be
                                        treated for tax purposes as a
                                        Nonstatutory Stock Option on the date
                                        three (3) months and one (1) day
                                        following such change of status.

                    (b)       Disposition of Shares.
                              --------------------- 
<PAGE>
 
                         (i)       NSO.  If the Optionee holds NSO Shares for at
                                   ---                                          
                              least one year, any gain realized on disposition
                              of the Shares will be treated as long-term capital
                              gain for federal income tax purposes.

                         (ii)      ISO.  If the Optionee holds ISO
                                   ---
                                        Shares for at least one year after
                                        exercise and two years after the grant
                                        date, any gain realized on disposition
                                        of the Shares will be treated as long-
                                        term capital gain for federal income tax
                                        purposes. If the Optionee disposes of
                                        ISO Shares within one year after
                                        exercise or two years after the grant
                                        date, any gain realized on such
                                        disposition will be treated as
                                        compensation income (taxable at ordinary
                                        income rates) to the extent of the
                                        excess, if any, of the lesser of (A) the
                                        difference between the Fair Market Value
                                        of the Shares acquired on the date of
                                        exercise and the aggregate Exercise
                                        Price, or (B) the difference between the
                                        sale price of such Shares and the
                                        aggregate Exercise Price. Any additional
                                        gain will be taxed as capital gain,
                                        short-term or long-term depending on the
                                        period that the ISO Shares were held.

                    (c)       Notice of Disqualifying Disposition of ISO Shares.
                              -------------------------------------------------
                         If the Optionee sells or otherwise disposes of any of
                         the Shares acquired pursuant to an ISO on or before the
                         later of (i) two years after the grant date, or (ii)
                         one year after the exercise date, the Optionee shall
                         immediately notify the Company in writing of such
                         disposition. The Optionee agrees that he or she may be
                         subject to income tax withholding by the Company on the
                         compensation income recognized from such early
                         disposition of ISO Shares by payment in cash or out of
                         the current earnings paid to the Optionee.

7.        Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Plan is incorporated herein by
          -------------------------------                                     
     reference. The Plan and this Option Agreement constitute the entire
     agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and
     supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and 
<PAGE>
 
     agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter
     hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee's interest except
     by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee. This agreement is
     governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of law rules,
     of California.

8.        NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE.  OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES 
          ---------------------------------       
     THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS
     EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY
     (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR
     PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER). OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT
     THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING
     SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE
     OF CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR
     ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE'S RIGHT OR THE
     COMPANY'S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE'S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER
     AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE.

     By your signature and the signature of the Company's representative below,
you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the
terms and conditions of the Plan and this Option Agreement. Optionee has
reviewed the Plan and this Option Agreement in their entirety, has had an
opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Option
Agreement and fully understands all provisions of the Plan and Option Agreement.
Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions
or interpretations of the Administrator upon any questions relating to the Plan
and Option Agreement. Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any
change in the residence address indicated below.


OPTIONEE:                               RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION           
                                                                                
                                                                                
                                                                                
_________________________________       _______________________________________ 
Signature                                  By                                   
                                                                                
_________________________________       _______________________________________ 
Print Name                                 Title          
                                    
_________________________________   
Residence Address                   
                                    
_________________________________   
<PAGE>
 
                               CONSENT OF SPOUSE
                               -----------------

     The undersigned spouse of Optionee has read and hereby approves the terms
and conditions of the Plan and this Option Agreement. In consideration of the
Company's granting his or her spouse the right to purchase Shares as set forth
in the Plan and this Option Agreement, the undersigned hereby agrees to be
irrevocably bound by the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Option
Agreement and further agrees that any community property interest shall be
similarly bound. The undersigned hereby appoints the undersigned's spouse as
attorney-in-fact for the undersigned with respect to any amendment or exercise
of rights under the Plan or this Option Agreement.
 
                                          _____________________________________
                                          Spouse of Optionee
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT A
                                   ---------

                           RATIONAL 1997 STOCK PLAN

                                EXERCISE NOTICE


Rational Software Corporation
2800 San Tomas Expressway
Santa Clara, CA  95051-0951


Attention:_______________________

     1.   Exercise of Option.  Effective as of today, ________________, 199__,
          ------------------                                                  
the undersigned ("Purchaser") hereby elects to purchase ______________ shares
(the "Shares") of the Common Stock of Rational Software Corporation (the
"Company") under and pursuant to the Rational 1997 Stock Plan (the "Plan") and
the Stock Option Agreement dated _____________, 19___ (the "Option Agreement").
The purchase price for the Shares shall be $_____________, as required by the
Option Agreement.

     2.   Delivery of Payment.  Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the
          -------------------                                                 
full purchase price for the Shares.

     3.   Representations of Purchaser.  Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser
          ----------------------------                                        
has received, read and understood the Plan and the Option Agreement and agrees
to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions.

     4.   Rights as Shareholder.  Until the issuance (as evidenced by the
          ---------------------                                          
appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer
agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or
any other rights as a shareholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned
Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option. The Shares so acquired shall
be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option.
No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record
date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 13 of the
Plan.

     5.   Tax Consultation.  Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer
          ----------------                                                  
adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser's purchase or disposition of
the Shares. Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax
consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with the purchase or
disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for
any tax advice.

     6.   Entire Agreement; Governing Law.  The Plan and Option Agreement are
          -------------------------------                                    
incorporated herein by reference. This Agreement, the Plan and the Option
Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the
subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all 
<PAGE>
 
prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to
the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser's
interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser. This
agreement is governed by the internal substantive laws, but not the choice of
law rules, of California.


Submitted by:                           Accepted by:                         
                                                                            
PURCHASER:                              RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION       
                                                                            
                                                                            
_________________________________       _____________________________________
Signature                                    By                            
                                                                            
_________________________________       _____________________________________
Print Name                                   Its


Address:                                     Address:
- -------                                      ------- 

_________________________________       Rational Software Corporation
_________________________________       2800 San Tomas Expressway
                                        Santa Clara, CA  95051-0951
_____________________________________
                                             Date Received
<PAGE>
 
                           RATIONAL 1997 STOCK PLAN

                    NOTICE OF GRANT OF STOCK PURCHASE RIGHT


     Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Plan shall have
the same defined meanings in this Notice of Grant.

[Grantee's Name and Address]

     You have been granted the right to purchase Common Stock of the Company,
subject to the Company's Repurchase Option and your ongoing status as a Service
Provider (as described in the Plan and the attached Restricted Stock Purchase
Agreement), as follows:

     Grant Number                       _________________________

     Date of Grant                      _________________________

     Price Per Share                    $________________________

     Total Number of Shares Subject     _________________________
       to This Stock Purchase Right

     Expiration Date:                   _________________________


     YOU MUST EXERCISE THIS STOCK PURCHASE RIGHT BEFORE THE EXPIRATION DATE OR
IT WILL TERMINATE AND YOU WILL HAVE NO FURTHER RIGHT TO PURCHASE THE SHARES. By
your signature and the signature of the Company's representative below, you and
the Company agree that this Stock Purchase Right is granted under and governed
by the terms and conditions of the [Plan name] and the Restricted Stock Purchase
Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit A-1, both of which are made a part of this
document. You further agree to execute the attached Restricted Stock Purchase
Agreement as a condition to purchasing any shares under this Stock Purchase
Right.

GRANTEE:                                RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION         
                                                                             
________________________________        ________________________________     
Signature                                    By                             
                                                                             
________________________________        ________________________________
Print Name                                   Title                      
<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT A-1
                                  -----------


                           RATIONAL 1997 STOCK PLAN

                      RESTRICTED STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT

     Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Plan shall have
the same defined meanings in this Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement.

     WHEREAS the Purchaser named in the Notice of Grant, (the "Purchaser") is an
Service Provider, and the Purchaser's continued participation is considered by
the Company to be important for the Company's continued growth; and

     WHEREAS in order to give the Purchaser an opportunity to acquire an equity
interest in the Company as an incentive for the Purchaser to participate in the
affairs of the Company, the Administrator has granted to the Purchaser a Stock
Purchase Right subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Notice of
Grant, which are incorporated herein by reference, and pursuant to this
Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement").

     NOW THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

     1.   Sale of Stock.  The Company hereby agrees to sell to the Purchaser and
          -------------                                                         
the Purchaser hereby agrees to purchase shares of the Company's Common Stock
(the "Shares"), at the per Share purchase price and as otherwise described in
the Notice of Grant.

     2.   Payment of Purchase Price.  The purchase price for the Shares may be
          -------------------------                                           
paid by delivery to the Company at the time of execution of this Agreement of
cash, a check, or some combination thereof.

     3.   Repurchase Option.
          ----------------- 

          (a)  In the event the Purchaser ceases to be a Service Provider for
any or no reason (including death or disability) before all of the Shares are
released from the Company's Repurchase Option (see Section 4), the Company
shall, upon the date of such termination (as reasonably fixed and determined by
the Company) have an irrevocable, exclusive option (the "Repurchase Option") for
a period of sixty (60) days from such date to repurchase up to that number of
shares which constitute the Unreleased Shares (as defined in Section 4) at the
original purchase price per share (the "Repurchase Price"). The Repurchase
Option shall be exercised by the Company by delivering written notice to the
Purchaser or the Purchaser's executor (with a copy to the Escrow Holder) AND, at
the Company's option, (i) by delivering to the Purchaser or the Purchaser's
executor a check in the amount of the aggregate Repurchase Price, or (ii) by
cancelling an amount of the Purchaser's indebtedness to the Company equal to
the aggregate Repurchase Price, or (iii) by a combination of (i) and (ii) so
that the combined payment and cancellation of indebtedness equals the aggregate
Repurchase Price. Upon delivery of such notice and the payment of the aggregate
Repurchase Price, the Company shall become 
<PAGE>
 
the legal and beneficial owner of the Shares being repurchased and all rights
and interests therein or relating thereto, and the Company shall have the right
to retain and transfer to its own name the number of Shares being repurchased by
the Company.

          (b)  Whenever the Company shall have the right to repurchase Shares
hereunder, the Company may designate and assign one or more employees, officers,
directors or shareholders of the Company or other persons or organizations to
exercise all or a part of the Company's purchase rights under this Agreement and
purchase all or a part of such Shares. If the Fair Market Value of the Shares to
be repurchased on the date of such designation or assignment (the "Repurchase
FMV") exceeds the aggregate Repurchase Price of such Shares, then each such
designee or assignee shall pay the Company cash equal to the difference between
the Repurchase FMV and the aggregate Repurchase Price of such Shares.

     4.   Release of Shares From Repurchase Option.
          ---------------------------------------- 

          (a)  _______________________  percent (______%) of the Shares shall be
released from the Company's Repurchase Option [one year] after the Date of Grant
                                              ----------  
and __________________ percent (______%) of the Shares [at the end of each month
                                                       -------------------------
thereafter], provided that the Purchaser does not cease to be a Service Provider
- -----------
prior to the date of any such release.

          (b)  Any of the Shares that have not yet been released from the
Repurchase Option are referred to herein as "Unreleased Shares."

          (c)  The Shares that have been released from the Repurchase Option
shall be delivered to the Purchaser at the Purchaser's request (see Section 6).

     5.   Restriction on Transfer.  Except for the escrow described in Section 6
          -----------------------                                               
or the transfer of the Shares to the Company or its assignees contemplated by
this Agreement, none of the Shares or any beneficial interest therein shall be
transferred, encumbered or otherwise disposed of in any way until such Shares
are released from the Company's Repurchase Option in accordance with the
provisions of this Agreement, other than by will or the laws of descent and
distribution.

     6.   Escrow of Shares.
          ---------------- 

          (a)  To ensure the availability for delivery of the Purchaser's
Unreleased Shares upon repurchase by the Company pursuant to the Repurchase
Option, the Purchaser shall, upon execution of this Agreement, deliver and
deposit with an escrow holder designated by the Company (the "Escrow Holder")
the share certificates representing the Unreleased Shares, together with the
stock assignment duly endorsed in blank, attached hereto as Exhibit A-2. The
Unreleased Shares and stock assignment shall be held by the Escrow Holder,
pursuant to the Joint Escrow Instructions of the Company and Purchaser attached
hereto as Exhibit A-3, until such time as the Company's Repurchase Option
expires. As a further condition to the Company's obligations under this
Agreement, the Company may require 
<PAGE>
 
the spouse of Purchaser, if any, to execute and deliver to the Company the
Consent of Spouse attached hereto as Exhibit A-4.

          (b)  The Escrow Holder shall not be liable for any act it may do or
omit to do with respect to holding the Unreleased Shares in escrow while acting
in good faith and in the exercise of its judgment.

          (c)  If the Company or any assignee exercises the Repurchase Option
hereunder, the Escrow Holder, upon receipt of written notice of such exercise
from the proposed transferee, shall take all steps necessary to accomplish such
transfer.

          (d)  When the Repurchase Option has been exercised or expires
unexercised or a portion of the Shares has been released from the Repurchase
Option, upon request the Escrow Holder shall promptly cause a new certificate to
be issued for the released Shares and shall deliver the certificate to the
Company or the Purchaser, as the case may be.

          (e)  Subject to the terms hereof, the Purchaser shall have all the
rights of a shareholder with respect to the Shares while they are held in
escrow, including without limitation, the right to vote the Shares and to
receive any cash dividends declared thereon. If, from time to time during the
term of the Repurchase Option, there is (i) any stock dividend, stock split or
other change in the Shares, or (ii) any merger or sale of all or substantially
all of the assets or other acquisition of the Company, any and all new,
substituted or additional securities to which the Purchaser is entitled by
reason of the Purchaser's ownership of the Shares shall be immediately subject
to this escrow, deposited with the Escrow Holder and included thereafter as
"Shares" for purposes of this Agreement and the Repurchase Option.

     7.   Legends.  The share certificate evidencing the Shares, if any,  issued
          -------                                                               
hereunder shall be endorsed with the following legend (in addition to any legend
required under applicable state securities laws):

     THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN
RESTRICTIONS UPON TRANSFER AND RIGHTS OF REPURCHASE AS SET FORTH IN AN AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE SHAREHOLDER, A COPY OF WHICH IS ON FILE WITH THE
SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY.

     8.   Adjustment for Stock Split.  All references to the number of Shares
          --------------------------                                         
and the purchase price of the Shares in this Agreement shall be appropriately
adjusted to reflect any stock split, stock dividend or other change in the
Shares which may be made by the Company after the date of this Agreement.

     9.   Tax Consequences.  The Purchaser has reviewed with the Purchaser's own
          ----------------                                                      
tax advisors the federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences of this
investment and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. The Purchaser is
relying solely on such advisors and not on any statements
<PAGE>
 
or representations of the Company or any of its agents. The Purchaser
understands that the Purchaser (and not the Company) shall be responsible for
the Purchaser's own tax liability that may arise as a result of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. The Purchaser understands that Section 83 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), taxes as ordinary income
the difference between the purchase price for the Shares and the Fair Market
Value of the Shares as of the date any restrictions on the Shares lapse. In this
context, "restriction" includes the right of the Company to buy back the Shares
pursuant to the Repurchase Option. The Purchaser understands that the Purchaser
may elect to be taxed at the time the Shares are purchased rather than when and
as the Repurchase Option expires by filing an election under Section 83(b) of
the Code with the IRS within 30 days from the date of purchase. The form for
making this election is attached as Exhibit A-5 hereto.

          THE PURCHASER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT IS THE PURCHASER'S SOLE
RESPONSIBILITY AND NOT THE COMPANY'S TO FILE TIMELY THE ELECTION UNDER SECTION
83(b), EVEN IF THE PURCHASER REQUESTS THE COMPANY OR ITS REPRESENTATIVES TO MAKE
THIS FILING ON THE PURCHASER'S BEHALF.

     10.  General Provisions.
          ------------------ 

          (a)  This Agreement shall be governed by the internal substantive
laws, but not the choice of law rules of California. This Agreement, subject to
the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Notice of Grant, represents the
entire agreement between the parties with respect to the purchase of the Shares
by the Purchaser. Subject to Section 15(c) of the Plan, in the event of a
conflict between the terms and conditions of the Plan and the terms and
conditions of this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall
prevail. Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the Plan shall
have the same defined meanings in this Agreement.

          (b)  Any notice, demand or request required or permitted to be given
by either the Company or the Purchaser pursuant to the terms of this Agreement
shall be in writing and shall be deemed given when delivered personally or
deposited in the U.S. mail, First Class with postage prepaid, and addressed to
the parties at the addresses of the parties set forth at the end of this
Agreement or such other address as a party may request by notifying the other in
writing.

          Any notice to the Escrow Holder shall be sent to the Company's address
with a copy to the other party hereto.

          (c)  The rights of the Company under this Agreement shall be
transferable to any one or more persons or entities, and all covenants and
agreements hereunder shall inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by the
Company's successors and assigns. The rights and obligations of the Purchaser
under this Agreement may only be assigned with the prior written consent of the
Company.

          (d)  Either party's failure to enforce any provision of this Agreement
shall not in any way be construed as a waiver of any such provision, nor prevent
that party from thereafter enforcing any 
<PAGE>
 
other provision of this Agreement. The rights granted both parties hereunder are
cumulative and shall not constitute a waiver of either party's right to assert
any other legal remedy available to it.

          (e)  The Purchaser agrees upon request to execute any further
documents or instruments necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes or
intent of this Agreement.

          (f)  PURCHASER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES
PURSUANT TO SECTION 4 HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING SERVICE AS A SERVICE
PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED OR
PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER). PURCHASER FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT
THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE
SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUED
ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT
ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH PURCHASER'S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY'S RIGHT TO
TERMINATE PURCHASER'S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR
WITHOUT CAUSE.

     By Purchaser's signature below, Purchaser represents that he or she is
familiar with the terms and provisions of the Plan, and hereby accepts this
Agreement subject to all of the terms and provisions thereof. Purchaser has
reviewed the Plan and this Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity
to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Agreement and fully
understands all provisions of this Agreement. Purchaser agrees to accept as
binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the
Administrator upon any questions arising under the Plan or this Agreement.
Purchaser further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence
indicated in the Notice of Grant.

DATED:  _____________________

PURCHASER:                              RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION

_____________________________           ___________________________________
Signature                                    By                     
                                                                           
_____________________________           ___________________________________
Print Name                                   Title              
<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT A-2
                                  -----------

                      ASSIGNMENT SEPARATE FROM CERTIFICATE



     FOR VALUE RECEIVED I, __________________________, hereby sell, assign and
transfer unto _______________________________________ (__________) shares of the
Common Stock of Rational Software Corporation standing in my name of the books
of said corporation represented by Certificate No. _____ herewith and do hereby
irrevocably constitute and appoint _________________________________________ to
transfer the said stock on the books of the within named corporation with full
power of substitution in the premises .

     This Stock Assignment may be used only in accordance with the Restricted
Stock Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement") between________________________ and
the undersigned dated ______________, 19__.


Dated: _______________, 19__


                                        Signature:______________________________



INSTRUCTIONS:  Please do not fill in any blanks other than the signature line.
The purpose of this assignment is to enable the Company to exercise the
Repurchase Option, as set forth in the Agreement, without requiring additional
signatures on the part of the Purchaser.
<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT A-3
                                  -----------

                           JOINT ESCROW INSTRUCTIONS
                           -------------------------


                                                             _____________, 19__

Corporate Secretary
Rational Software Corporation
2800 San Tomas Expressway
Santa Clara, CA  95051-0951


Dear _________________:

     As Escrow Agent for both Rational Software Corporation, a California
corporation (the "Company"), and the undersigned purchaser of stock of the
Company (the "Purchaser"), you are hereby authorized and directed to hold the
documents delivered to you pursuant to the terms of that certain Restricted
Stock Purchase Agreement ("Agreement") between the Company and the undersigned,
in accordance with the following instructions:

     1.   In the event the Company and/or any assignee of the Company (referred
to collectively as the "Company") exercises the Company's Repurchase Option set
forth in the Agreement, the Company shall give to Purchaser and you a written
notice specifying the number of shares of stock to be purchased, the purchase
price, and the time for a closing hereunder at the principal office of the
Company. Purchaser and the Company hereby irrevocably authorize and direct you
to close the transaction contemplated by such notice in accordance with the
terms of said notice.

     2.   At the closing, you are directed (a) to date the stock assignments
necessary for the transfer in question, (b) to fill in the number of shares
being transferred, and (c) to deliver same, together with the certificate
evidencing the shares of stock to be transferred, to the Company or its
assignee, against the simultaneous delivery to you of the purchase price (by
cash, a check, or some combination thereof) for the number of shares of stock
being purchased pursuant to the exercise of the Company's Repurchase Option.

     3.   Purchaser irrevocably authorizes the Company to deposit with you any
certificates evidencing shares of stock to be held by you hereunder and any
additions and substitutions to said shares as defined in the Agreement.
Purchaser does hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint you as Purchaser's
attorney-in-fact and agent for the term of this escrow to execute with respect
to such securities all documents necessary or appropriate to make such
securities negotiable and to complete any transaction herein contemplated,
including but not limited to the filing with any applicable state blue sky
authority of any required applications for consent to, or notice of transfer of,
the securities. Subject to the provisions of this paragraph 3, Purchaser shall
exercise all rights and privileges of a shareholder of the Company while the
stock is held by you.
<PAGE>
 
     4.   Upon written request of the Purchaser, but no more than once per
calendar year, unless the Company's Repurchase Option has been exercised, you
shall deliver to Purchaser a certificate or certificates representing so many
shares of stock as are not then subject to the Company's Repurchase Option.
Within 90 days after Purchaser ceases to be a Service Provider, you shall
deliver to Purchaser a certificate or certificates representing the aggregate
number of shares held or issued pursuant to the Agreement and not purchased by
the Company or its assignees pursuant to exercise of the Company's Repurchase
Option.

     5.   If at the time of termination of this escrow you should have in your
possession any documents, securities, or other property belonging to Purchaser,
you shall deliver all of the same to Purchaser and shall be discharged of all
further obligations hereunder.

     6.   Your duties hereunder may be altered, amended, modified or revoked
only by a writing signed by all of the parties hereto.

     7.   You shall be obligated only for the performance of such duties as are
specifically set forth herein and may rely and shall be protected in relying or
refraining from acting on any instrument reasonably believed by you to be
genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties.
You shall not be personally liable for any act you may do or omit to do
hereunder as Escrow Agent or as attorney-in-fact for Purchaser while acting in
good faith, and any act done or omitted by you pursuant to the advice of your
own attorneys shall be conclusive evidence of such good faith.

     8.   You are hereby expressly authorized to disregard any and all warnings
given by any of the parties hereto or by any other person or corporation,
excepting only orders or process of courts of law, and are hereby expressly
authorized to comply with and obey orders, judgments or decrees of any court.
In case you obey or comply with any such order, judgment or decree, you shall
not be liable to any of the parties hereto or to any other person, firm or
corporation by reason of such compliance, notwithstanding any such order,
judgment or decree being subsequently reversed, modified, annulled, set aside,
vacated or found to have been entered without jurisdiction.

     9.   You shall not be liable in any respect on account of the identity,
authorities or rights of the parties executing or delivering or purporting to
execute or deliver the Agreement or any documents or papers deposited or called
for hereunder.

     10.  You shall not be liable for the outlawing of any rights under the
statute of limitations with respect to these Joint Escrow Instructions or any
documents deposited with you.

     11.  You shall be entitled to employ such legal counsel and other experts
as you may deem necessary properly to advise you in connection with your
obligations hereunder, may rely upon the advice of such counsel, and may pay
such counsel reasonable compensation therefor.
<PAGE>
 
     12.  Your responsibilities as Escrow Agent hereunder shall terminate if you
shall cease to be an officer or agent of the Company or if you shall resign by
written notice to each party. In the event of any such termination, the Company
shall appoint a successor Escrow Agent.

     13.  If you reasonably require other or further instruments in connection
with these Joint Escrow Instructions or obligations in respect hereto, the
necessary parties hereto shall join in furnishing such instruments.

     14.  It is understood and agreed that should any dispute arise with respect
to the delivery and/or ownership or right of possession of the securities held
by you hereunder, you are authorized and directed to retain in your possession
without liability to anyone all or any part of said securities until such
disputes shall have been settled either by mutual written agreement of the
parties concerned or by a final order, decree or judgment of a court of
competent jurisdiction after the time for appeal has expired and no appeal has
been perfected, but you shall be under no duty whatsoever to institute or defend
any such proceedings.

     15.  Any notice required or permitted hereunder shall be given in writing
and shall be deemed effectively given upon personal delivery or upon deposit in
the United States Post Office, by registered or certified mail with postage and
fees prepaid, addressed to each of the other parties thereunto entitled at the
following addresses or at such other addresses as a party may designate by ten
days' advance written notice to each of the other parties hereto.


          COMPANY:       Rational Software Corporation
                         2800 San Tomas Expressway
                         Santa Clara, CA  95051-0951

          PURCHASER:          _____________________________

                              _____________________________
                              
                              _____________________________ 

          ESCROW AGENT:  Corporate Secretary
                         Rational Software Corporation
                         2800 San Tomas Expressway
                         Santa Clara, CA  95051-0951

     16.  By signing these Joint Escrow Instructions, you become a party hereto
only for the purpose of said Joint Escrow Instructions; you do not become a
party to the Agreement.

     17.  This instrument shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
parties hereto, and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
<PAGE>
 
     18.  These Joint Escrow Instructions shall be governed by, and construed
and enforced in accordance with, the internal substantive laws, but not the
choice of law rules, of California.

                                        Very truly yours,

                                        RATIONAL SOFTWARE CORPORATION


                                        _______________________________________
                                        By

                                        _______________________________________
                                        Title

                                        PURCHASER:

                                        _______________________________________
                                        Signature

                                        _______________________________________
                                        Print Name


ESCROW AGENT:


_____________________________________
Corporate Secretary
<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT A-4
                                  -----------

                               CONSENT OF SPOUSE
                               -----------------


     I, ____________________, spouse of ___________________, have read and
approve the foregoing Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement"). In
consideration of the Company's grant to my spouse of the right to purchase
shares of Rational Software Corporation, as set forth in the Agreement, I hereby
appoint my spouse as my attorney-in-fact in respect to the exercise of any
rights under the Agreement and agree to be bound by the provisions of the
Agreement insofar as I may have any rights in said Agreement or any shares
issued pursuant thereto under the community property laws or similar laws
relating to marital property in effect in the state of our residence as of the
date of the signing of the foregoing Agreement.

Dated: _______________, 19___


                                        ________________________________________
                                        Signature of Spouse
<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT A-5
                                  -----------

                         ELECTION UNDER SECTION 83(b)
                         ----------------------------
                     OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986
                     ------------------------------------

The undersigned taxpayer hereby elects, pursuant to Section 83(b) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, to include in taxpayer's gross income
for the current taxable year the amount of any compensation taxable to taxpayer
in connection with his or her receipt of the property described below:

1.   The name, address, taxpayer identification number and taxable year of the
     undersigned are as follows:

     NAME:                  TAXPAYER:               SPOUSE:

     ADDRESS:  

     IDENTIFICATION NO.:    TAXPAYER:               SPOUSE:

     TAXABLE YEAR:

2.   The property with respect to which the election is made is described as
     follows: __________ shares (the "Shares") of the Common Stock of Rational
     Software Corporation (the "Company").

3.   The date on which the property was transferred is: ______________, 19__.

4.   The property is subject to the following restrictions:

     The Shares may be repurchased by the Company, or its assignee, upon certain
     events. This right lapses with regard to a portion of the Shares based on
     the continued performance of services by the taxpayer over time.

5.   The fair market value at the time of transfer, determined without regard to
     any restriction other than a restriction which by its terms will never
     lapse, of such property is: 

     $ _______________.

6.   The amount (if any) paid for such property is:

     $_______________.

The undersigned has submitted a copy of this statement to the person for whom
the services were performed in connection with the undersigned's receipt of the
above-described property. The transferee of such property is the person
performing the services in connection with the transfer of said property.

The undersigned understands that the foregoing election may not be revoked
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
except with the consent of the Commissioner.
- ------------------------------------------- 

Dated:  ___________________, 19____  ___________________________________________

                                     Taxpayer
 

The undersigned spouse of taxpayer joins in this election.

Dated:  ___________________, 19____  ___________________________________________
                                     Spouse of Taxpayer

<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT 5.1



                                March 3, 1997


Rational Software Corporation
2800 San Tomas Expressway
Santa Clara, CA  95051-0951

     RE:  REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-8
          ----------------------------------

Gentlemen:

     We have examined the Registration Statement on Form S-8 to be filed by
you with the Securities and Exchange Commission on or about March 3, 1997 (the
"Registration Statement") in connection with the registration under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, of 2,884,657 shares of your Common Stock
(the "Option Shares") reserved for issuance under the SQA, Inc. 1995 Stock
Plan, SQA, Inc. 1995 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, SQA, Inc. 1995 Non-Employee
Director Stock Option Plan, SQA, Inc. 1990 Incentive and Nonqualified Stock
Option Plan, and the Rational 1997 Stock Plan (the "Plans"). As your legal
counsel, we have examined the proceedings taken and are familiar with the
proceedings proposed to be taken by you in connection with the sale and
issuance of such Common Stock under the Plan. In addition, for purposes of
this opinion we have assumed that the consideration received by the Company in
connection with each issuance of Option Shares will include an amount in the
form of cash, services rendered or property that exceeds the greater of (i)
the aggregate par value of such Option Shares or (ii) the portion of such
consideration determined by the Company's Board of Directors to be "capital"
for purposes of the Delaware General Corporation Law.

     Based upon the foregoing, it is our opinion that, when issued and sold in
the manner referred to in the Plan and pursuant to the agreements which
accompany the Plans, the Common Stock issued and sold thereby will be legally
and validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.

     We consent to the use of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration
Statement and further consent to the use of our name wherever appearing in the
Registration Statement, including any Prospectus constituting a part thereof,
and any amendments thereto. This opinion may be incorporated by reference in
any abbreviated registration statement filed pursuant to General Instruction E
of Form S-8 under the Securities Act with respect to the Registration
Statement.

                                 Very truly yours,

                                 WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH & ROSATI
                                 Professional Corporation

                                 /s/ WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH & ROSATI

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1



              CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8) pertaining to the SQA 1995 Stock Plan, SQA 1995 Employee Stock Purchase
Plan, SQA 1995 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan, SQA 1990 Incentive and
Nonqualified Stock Option Plan and the Rational 1997 Stock Plan of Rational
Software Corporation of our reports dated April 22, 1996, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements of Rational Software Corporation incorporated
by reference in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended March 31, 1996
and the related financial statement schedule included therein, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.



                                                   /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Jose, California
February 27, 1997



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