Guidelines for use of the SCIP Discussion List:

1. Messages should be brief and to the point. If you are sending a reply to a message or a posting be sure you summarise the original at the top of the message, or include just enough text of the original to give a context.
2. Make yourself known. When posting to the list for the first time, please include a brief introduction of yourself or your organisation or a web site for more information. Attach a signature to your messages clearly containing your name and email address for replies.
3. Do not blame the system administrator for the behaviour of the system users. SCIP does not endorse the accuracy, truthfulness or reliability of any information published by its users and is not responsible in any manner for any of the content in users' messages, or for any subsequent actions taken as a result of these messages. All statements made in discussions reflect only the views of their authors who remain solely responsible for their content.
4. If you have a complaint about an individual user, don't get involved in *flame wars but please contact SCIP privately admin@scip.org.uk. If you should find yourself in a disagreement with someone, make your responses to each other directly rather than continue to send messages to the list.
5. Assume that individuals speak for themselves, and what they say does not represent their organisation, unless stated explicitly.
6. Keep subject lines clear and simple and messages within the scope of the list focus. Do not post messages which cover more than one topic. Do not change the subject of a topic unless absolutely necessary, but start a new topic instead.
7. Do not post advertisements unless they are intended for the benefit of subscribers. This might mean publications, events, job opportunities or examples of good practice from the private sector, etc. If in doubt, please send the message first to us at admin@scip.org.uk
8. SCIP supports freedom of speech within the law. Sexually and racially harassing messages and personal attacks are not acceptable and may also have legal implications. As subscribers represent a diversity of lifestyles, religions, and cultures, sending messages to simply to tell them that their point of view is offensive to you is not acceptable. The use of swear words or undue profanity is discouraged.

*Flame Wars:- A flame is a deliberately abusive or inflammatory email; a flame war is an abusive argument held on-line