Using Others' Content on Your Web Site

During our Web site classes at the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, there are always questions about Web site rules. Basically, attendees want to know when and if it's OK for a nonprofit to link to another Web site, add a logo, post others' PDFs, etc.

If you were writing a book, you would think twice about copying text and pictures to place it in your own book. But, the Internet is so free and open that it makes you feel like all content is available for use.

Nonprofits may want to post information about their donors or add resources for their customers. Our rule of thumb is when in doubt, ask the other party for their permission. Here are some other professional opinions.

• The NOLO Web site has 10 rules of thumb in this area. This one is semi-technical because it's directed toward Web masters.
• You might want to also check out Workz.com which has an article on 7 Online Copyright Myths.

After reading those, it does make you wonder how to handle blogs. They can be tricky because they are designed for extensive linking.

Does anyone have a rule of thumb that they follow for blogs?