ASCE Collaborate Violation Policy

The ASCE Collaborate Violation Policy is a common sense policy based on the ASCE Code of Ethics. In order to preserve a climate that encourages both valuable and innovative dialogue on the forum, ASCE reserves the right to remove any content from, and/or to suspend or terminate participation on all lists by, any member who violates the ASCE Collaborate Code of Conduct.

Taking action against one of our members, particularly in regard to removing an account, is something we would like to avoid, but it may be necessary in order to protect the quality of service we strive to provide to all members. This restriction is not intended to limit the professional networking and educational advantages of ASCE Collaborate, but rather to enrich it. The policies applicable to the Violation Policy are spelled out clearly in the ASCE Collaborate Code of Conduct.

When unsure whether content is consistent with these policies, please err on the side of caution and do not post the content. If there are any questions on what content is appropriate to post please contact the Community Manager.

The ASCE Collaborate Code of Conduct may be revised from time to time and it’s the member’s responsibility to stay abreast of any changes.

Possible disciplinary actions for Code of Conduct violations:

The following describes ASCE’s general process for handling violations of the Code of Conduct; however, ASCE reserves the right to abridge, reorder, or amend this process if deemed necessary in individual cases.

  • An email, private message or phone call communication will be made to the member that explains the violation that occurred. Most violations to date are a result of a member not knowing they were in violation.
  • A member of the Editorial Board will personally contact a member who continually violates the Code of Conduct to discuss the purpose of ASCE Collaborate and the violations that have occurred.
  • If a member continues to violate the Code of Conduct, the member’s ASCE Collaborate account will be suspended for 30 days. After the 30 days the member’s access will be restored.
  • If the violations continue after access is restored, a formal written letter will be sent to the member who violated the guidelines. The member may be barred from participating in ASCE Collaborate in some or all groups. This removal could be temporary or permanent on a case-by-case basis. 
Appeal Process 

A member may appeal any decision of the ASCE Collaborate staff or Editorial Board, including suspension or removal from ASCE Collaborate. If a member wishes to appeal, they must contact the community manager via email.

Appeals should include the following pieces of information:

  • First name
  • Last name
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Full disclosure of any previous violations
  • Why you feel the decision should be overturned, including any relevant or supporting evidence.
The Appeal process will be as follows:

  • ASCE Community Manager
  • ASCE Collaborate Editorial Board
  • ASCE Executive Staff
  • Executive Committee of the ASCE Board of Direction
If the member is not satisfied with a decision, he or she can appeal to the next entity. Once all appeals are exhausted, decisions are final.

For any further questions or comments please contact the community manager.