Online Etiquette

Netiquette is the term associated to etiquette on the Internet.  While most Internet applications do not have any rules or regulations to use and obtain information, there are some general courtesies that you can adhere to when communicating.

When participating in an online discussion board with one or several individuals, the following rules of netiquette should be applied:

• Keep in mind that some discussions will have people from all over the world.  References to cultural events and items in your country may not be understood by others.  The same would apply to geographical references.
• While capitalizing all letters in a word can be used for emphasis, avoid using all capital letters throughout the message - it is considered SHOUTING!
• Keep your questions and comments relevant to the focus of the discussion group. Resist the temptation to "flame" others on the discussion or not abiding by the discussion rules. Remember that most discussions are "public" and meant for constructive exchanges. Treat the others on the list as you would want them to treat you.
• When replying to a message, verify the address that it is being sent.  Personal message should only go to the author of a message, public messages to the entire group.
• When quoting another person, edit the quotation to apply only what is relevant to your message. Only respond to a message when adding additional content.  No one wants to read several lines that state "Me too!"

When corresponding through email with one or several individuals, the following rules of netiquette should be applied:

• Always include a subject heading for the message - but keep it brief and descriptive.
• While capitalizing all letters in a word can be used for emphasis, avoid using all capital letters throughout the message - it is considered SHOUTING!
• If possible include parts, not all, of another message that you are referring to in a reply.
• Don't assume email is private.
• Include a signature with your email - but keep in limited to 4 to 5 lines. Typical signatures include:
  • Full Name
  • Contact Information - phone and/or email
• If sending or forwarding a message to several people who may not know each other, include your email address in the To: field and all other recipients email address in the BC: field.
• Be careful when using humor or sarcasm.  The person reading the mail may misinterpret your remarks and not have a clear understanding.

When corresponding in an online chat with one or several individuals, the following rules of netiquette should be applied:

• Remember that chat is an interruption of another person.  Only use as appropriate and never talk to strangers!
• When leaving the chat, always say goodbye and wait for the other person to acknowledge.
•  Often it is not worth correcting spelling mistakes with chat because the conversation moves so quickly.  The other person will normally understand what you were trying to say.
• Be careful if you have more than one chat session going!