Re: ISO rules of thumb for trainers

Dave Ferguson <david.ferguson[_at_]geis.ge.com> asked:
>
> how might I answer questions like these:
>
> -- Where can I get permission to use this [article, video clip,
> recording, image]?

The copyright owner's name ought to be in a copyright notice on the item or its cover. Sometimes even an address will be there. If not, you can search the Copyright registry through a library reference desk or through the Copyright Office itself. Sometimes, even after a good faith effort, you may be unable to determine or locate the copyright owner. This doesn't make it o.k. to go ahead and use the work--but if you do, and the owner later comes forward with a claim against you, you will be in a better position for having made such an effort.

> -- Isn't it okay if we use [whatever] internally and don't charge
> for it?

No. Unless your use meets the criteria for a fair use, it is an infringement; the fact that it was internal doesn't enter into it at all. The fact that it was non-commercial may weigh in your favor, but would not be detemrinative.

> -- If a magazine puts an article on its web site, can't I print
> that and make copies?

Not unless the copyright owner expressly or impliedly gives permission to do so. Most Web-site publications contain not only copyright notices but also "click licenses" expressly setting forth wht you can and can't do with materials posted on the site.

I hope this helps.

Bob Cumbow
<cumbr[_at_]perkinscoie.com> Received on Wed Apr 23 1997 - 22:40:22 GMT