Electronic Communications
Keep paragraphs and messages short and to the point.
Focus on one subject per message.
Be professional and careful what you say about others. E-mail is easily forwarded.
Do NOT originate or participate in Chain Mail.
Cite all quotes, references and sources.
Limit line length and avoid control characters.
Don't use the academic networks for commercial or proprietary work.
Include your signature at the bottom of E-mail messages. Your signature footer should include your name, position, affiliation and Internet addresses and should not exceed more than four lines. Optional information could include your address and phone number.
Capitalize words only to highlight an important point or to distinguish a title or heading. *Asterisks* surrounding a word also can be used to make a stronger point.
Use discretion when forwarding mail to group addresses or distribution lists. It's preferable to reference the source of a document and provide instructions on how to obtain a copy.
It is considered extremely rude to forward personal E-mail to mailing lists or Usenet without the original author's permission.
Be careful when using sarcasm and humor. Without face to face communications, your joke may be viewed as criticism.
Respect copyright and license agreements.
When quoting another person, edit out whatever isn't directly applicable to your reply. Including the entire article will annoy those reading it.
Abbreviate when possible:
- IMHO - in my humble/honest opinion
- FYI - for your information
- BTW - by the way
- Flame - antagonistic criticism
- :-) - happy face for humor
Rinaldi, A. The Net: User Guidlines and Netiquette. (1998).
For immediate assistance, contact the NU Help Desk
at 802-485-2456, or via e-mail at helpdesk@norwich.edu
