DOs and DON'Ts and DON'T KNOWs

I've been doing a bit of research about what is and isn't possible for me to do on the web in some pretty precise BBC guidelines for editorial staff, such as myself, about what they can and can't do in private blogs.

If you're not identifying yourself as BBC staff and are talking about personal interests, you can pretty much do what you want.

If you are identifiable, like me, the main points are that you're supposed to "behave well" when blogging and must abide by the corporation's editorial values and policies in your posts. You can discuss you work for the BBC in "ways that benefit" the corporation, but mustn't reveal confidential information about it.

You also need to tell your manager, which I've done, and include a disclaimer that says you're not speaking on behalf of the Beeb, ditto.

It continues: "Unless there are specific concerns about the nature of your job, you are free to talk about BBC programmes and content on your blog. Consult your manager if in any doubt."

Well, obviously working on the Middle East there are plenty of concerns - it's one of the most controversial subjects we deal with - so I still need to clear that one up with my bosses and work out what's permissible. However, in the guidelines for managers section, it says they shouldn't take an unnecessarily restrictive approach. But:

"In some cases individuals may be dealing with matters which are so sensitive (that sounds like me) that rules may have to be set on what they can and cannot talk about on their personal blog.

"For example those involved in factual areas should not advocate a particular position on high profile controversial subjects relevant to their areas."

Fair enough, but I'll have to wait and see what they say.

PS, I liked the line in the guidelines: "You should not use your blogs to attack or abuse colleagues" (only in person, then!)