Writing for Business Success/Effective business writing/Principles of written communication
Read Chapter 4.5 in Business Communication for Success. This reading discusses how words, like language itself, are governed by rules, shape reality, and have ethical dimensions. Plagiarism and libel are two ethical – and legal – dimensions of word use where understanding is critical. To avoid plagiarism, always record information on sources in your preparatory research, and always credit sources in all aspects of your writing, including any images or graphics you use. Libel is the written form of defamation, or a false statement that damages a reputation, in any publication, and can result in being sued. Perceptions of plagiarism and libel can differ across cultures. With the expansion of global and e-business enterprises, it is critical to develop knowledge and skills to communicate effectively across cultural borders.
Recommended: Do the six chapter exercises. The first three invite you to explore word meanings in written descriptions, drawings, and different audience contexts. The fourth asks you to practice writing a sales letter for an audience from a culture other than your own. The last two exercises ask you to do Internet research on current ‘netiquette’ expectations, and examples of ‘online libel cases.’ The aim of these exercises is to raise your awareness of your own perceptions, practice perspective shifting, and update your knowledge of digital communication conventions, and emerging ethical and legal issues in global and e-business. Please comment on your important findings on either of the last two exercises in WENotes.
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To avoid problems, before publishing your work, especially on the Internet, take time to familiarize with current intellectual property definitions, copyright attribution requirements, and global writing standards. These learning resources are a good starting point:
Copyright Information Resources
- Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL): How to avoid plagiarism.
- World Intellectual Property Organization – What is Intellectual Property.
- Attributing Creative Commons Materials – Best Practices.
Global Writing Standards Learning Aids
- The International Association of Business Communicators – Six Principles of the Communication Profession
- New Media Rights – Tips on How to Avoid Online Libel
