What is IU's policy concerning mass mailing via email?
University Information Policy Office (UIPO) at Indiana University distinguishes between mass mailings for administrative purposes and those for interpersonal communication. Administrative mass mailings are regulated, but as a vehicle for the free expression and exchange of ideas, personal conversations are not. However, UIPO also expects nonadministrative use of email to be conducted between individuals and small groups. For further details, see:
- Office of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculties' Policy on mass email communication
- Bloomington Faculty Council's Mass Email Procedures and Restrictions
Regardless of the purpose, if you are considering mass mailing, be sensitive to the fact that IU community members may not wish to receive unsolicited email that has nothing to do with their duties or mission at IU. The volume of spam is such that there simply isn't time to deal with unnecessary email from IU senders as well. Thus, you should find targeted methods to reach those who have a particular need to receive your communications (e.g., LISTSERV lists, requests for information from your web site), rather than using mass methods that may reach people who have nothing to do with your office or have no interest in your service.
The following list contains further information on related topics:
- For guidelines on composing mail to a group of people, see What are some guidelines for email etiquette?
- For instructions on different methods of sending mail to
groups of people, see How do I send an email message to a group of people?
- Using IU resources to conduct commercial mailing is strictly
prohibited; see What is IU policy on using information technology resources for commercial advertisement?
- Sending surveys via email is strictly regulated; for more, see
What is UITS policy on surveys via email?
- To report email abuse, see What should I do when I get spam email?
Last modified on May 13, 2009.
