ZDNet UK community code of conduct

We ask ZDNet.co.uk members to be considerate and respectful of others, so we can keep the community a great place to meet and exchange ideas. Below is a list of expected standards of behaviour, which we hope will contribute to a friendly and open environment.

By taking part in the community, you agree to keep to this code of conduct. Those who repeatedly go against these standards run the risk of having their account closed.

And we may revise this document, so please check it from time to time. We're open to your ideas on this. If you feel it needs amending, start a discussion in the forums, and we'll take it from there.

Be respectful
It makes sense to respond politely to posts, no matter how provocative, annoying or clueless they may seem. It'll keep the trolls away, encourage newcomers to join in and help build your status in the community.

Don't power-post
Even if your comment is relevant to more than one story or blog, please don't post it in multiple places. Make just one comment on one story or write a blog entry about it.

Don't advertise
The idea is to share insights and experiences about business technology, which means that ads and promo pieces are not allowed. It's fine to provide a link or a suggestion in answer to another member's query. But please don't post ads, promote your company or solicit business. If you do, we will delete these items and may close your account without warning. This is also covered in our Terms and Conditions.

Add something valuable
Please try to bring something to the table when you post, rather than making a one-word response or talking off-topic. Digressions can make for lively discussions, but make reading your postings worthwhile — it will help you build a reputation within the community.

Make your first post count
For the same reasons, don't begin your blog with a "Hi, I'm new" or "This is my first entry!" Use the opportunity to introduce yourself and your interests, or to raise a question or make a point.

Share wisely
If you have another blog, please don't make a posting with nothing but a link taking people there. The key is to be useful for readers. That's why we're happy for members to replicate content from their other blogs on their ZDNet blog, as long as they aren't breaking copyright in doing so.

Avoid giving offence
Self-explanatory, but here are the obvious things: don't swear, use slurs, or make personal attacks. Don't make defamatory comments. Don't harass, threaten or "flame" other members. Don't post objectionable material or links.

Only post for yourself
If a comment or blog names the author, then the author must be the person who posted it. Marketing and PR folks, pay heed.

Be transparent
Make it clear if you have a vested interest. If you're talking about a business and you work for that company, it's only fair to let people know.

Also, if you include a link, let people know its purpose and where it takes them. Don't post any link that could have a destructive effect. And please don't use a "shortening" service such as TinyURL — the full link will give people a better idea of it.

Be legal
Don't use unlawful language (for instance, language that is libellous or obscene) or participate in other unlawful activities in the community — if you do, we will remove the posting without warning and are likely to close your account. You are responsible for all the content you post on the site, which includes making sure you don't break any applicable law.

As part of this, please avoid including copyrighted or trademarked material in your posts. However, you can link to such items, or paraphrase or quote briefly from them.

Be safe
This is a public space, so be careful about posting any personally identifiable information. Take a look at our Privacy Policy.

Talk to us
Let us know if you think these standards don't reflect what the community is about. The best way is to start a discussion in the Forums, but you can also drop a line to Community.Manager@zdnet.co.uk.