There are frequent posts requesting templates, procedures, etc that we have generated and deployed. Would it be a good idea to set aside an area where we can submit our work for others to use, adapt, share etc? Most of us will rarely start from a blank page so this could be a new starting place for all of us.

I think its a great idea. People like myself, whose word skills are not brilliant, would benefit from it. I'm ok with the content, its just the design and how to put that onto paper. Also, seeing the way that other people approach things can give you a different perspective on things that can also be advantageous. The same as the forum posts on H&S matters. Andy

Good idea, lets see what happens

Isn't there an issue that (a) if you are employed, your work belongs to your employer and you are not free to publish it and (b) if you are self-employed, you aren't going to want to provide your services for free?

How can a simple template (minus content) be copyright. The content maywell be but and as for policies basic info is basic info where ever you work. So I don't except the arugument of copyright. Rich

quote=rich777] So I don't except the arugument of copyright. Rich

Network Rail issue standards with templates for most Safety related issues The proviso is that the forms are not copyright but the standards are So the idea of a template available to all is bourne out through this Personally i think it is a great idea - for those who want to use it

I agree with most previous replies in that certain people think that Knowledge is POWER and would not share a thing, me personally if I can help anyone else I am happy to do so. When looking at templates you face the process of actually assessing it in the first place, then maybe amending it, then reviewing it before deciding on something else entirely!! So it is a learning process and that is good. If it is copyrighted then do not do it, use your imagination and start from scratch. Grant

Kate's comment a #7 still holds good. The design element of a template has value, not only from the time taken by the designer but also because it will be a unique piece of work that can be found useful by others, and others have not been able or willing to produce for themselves (as proved by the requests to copy). An employer is entitled to claim it as the organisation's intellectual property if it has been produced during the employees working time. If an employee gives it away they may be in breach of a company rules and subject to a disciplinary process. Similarly, a consultant who has produced their own work may not want to give it away as a freebie. However, those who want to share will surely do so and those who don't, won't. It was ever so.