The emergence of social media tools, with user friendly interfaces and WYSIWYG editors, has drastically changed the nature of web publishing. Whereas many years ago, posting content to the web required advanced technical knowledge, new tools and services now enable the average individual to establish a presence online in which they can share or explore their thoughts, opinions, ideas, as well as share information, resources and files.

However, as with similar changes in the past, these advancements in technology have had a disruptive influence on certain aspects of society, with gaps in legislation, policy or social norms leading to a period of negotiation, debate and indeed sometimes lawsuits. Copyright, intellectual property rights and adherence to licenses and terms of use are a few such examples.

Given the state of the debate on sharing and reuse online, especially with respect to what constitutes “Fair Use” or “Fair Dealing,” it is very important that we each make ourselves aware of the legal obligations and realities we each face whenever we post content online.

In the context of this discussion, a presentation on “Web 2.0 and Copyright legal issues for Universities” by Aaron Magner, Legal Counsel for UNSW, is especially valuable. Please note this relates to Australia in particular and may not be relevant for different parts of the world.

I’m also not a legal expert, so rather than take this as the gospel truth please be sure to raise any questions with local experts.