Netiquette

The following is a list of guidelines to follow when contributing to the Network Discussion Forums.

When Responding to a Post, Keep Your Message Brief

While your message should be brief, make sure you include enough content so that everyone in the discussion understands what you are referring to. A well thought out and succinct post will generate more discussion.

Stay on Topic

Your reply should be in response to the original topic. Try not to create a sub-conversation within the original conversation. If you have other ideas that you would like to share, simply start a new topic.

Try to Keep the Conversation Going

A great way to do this is by asking further questions related to the topic at hand. You can also ask for more specific feedback. Either way, this will drive the conversation further.

Do Not Reply With Brief Responses That Add Little to the Conversation

This includes responses such as "I agree." People are busy and might become irritated with simple messages that don’t offer much content. If you agree with a post, but want to expand on a certain point, feel free to do so. 

Adhere to the Same Standards of Behavior That You Follow in Real Life

Treat this conversation as any other face to face discussion, and act and respond accordingly. Your rules for conduct should not change simply because a discussion is happening in cyberspace.

If You Have a Conflict, Please Settle it Though a Private E-mail

Avoid what is called "flaming." This is when one member of the discussion personally attacks the idea of another’s post. This is not the place for this type of content.

Be Courteous to the Other Participants

Remember, this is a friendly conversation among colleagues. Please do not be critical of other individuals’ inquiries. The purpose of the discussion forum is to provide a place where people can share information and ideas with one another.