ACS message boards, email, and other interactive features offer opportunities for meaningful interaction where users can share knowledge, experiences, and other helpful information. Since most of the interactions are public, the experience is best when people follow certain guidelines. The User Agreement provides detailed guidelines for registered user conduct. Here is some helpful advice:

Read the ACS User Agreement: The ACS user agreement contains the details of proper message board usage.

Use "Netiquette": There are several sources on the Internet that can help you communicate effectively using “Netiquette.” Quite simply, Netiquette is a set of core guidelines to help the cyberspace community behave productively while online. Since expression, gestures, and voice tone are all invisible to members, it’s helpful to understand basic online etiquette.

Be Succinct: Stay on topic and collect your thoughts before communicating them publicly in writing. If your comments are off topic, you may wish to indicate this early in your message or perhaps the subject header.

Build Online Rapport: In addition to mutual understanding, there will surely be conflicting points of view at times. Remember to respect the opinions of others. Part of what makes a good community is the ability to see different points of view. Agreeing to disagree is good Netiquette. Those who foster goodwill, will get more participation from others.

SPAM: Don't "spam" the boards with multiple postings. Inappropriate messages, like advertising unproven “miracle cures” or products for sale will be removed.

Respect Others: This is really the bottom line. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This includes refraining from using profanity or engaging in conduct that would be deemed inappropriate in real-life, face-to-face situations.

Contacting ACS: If you have questions or concerns about the ACS community guidelines, you can contact us.