Question:
Occasionally, and certainly more often than we enjoy, misunderstandings arise between our freelancers, our staff, and our clients. In particular, we need a common agreement on ownership, copyright, and legal usage of artwork. Is there an authoritative resource we can use and recommend to our creative partners?

Answer:
The one essential reference I've recommended for many years is The Graphic Artist Guild's Handbook of Pricing & Ethical Guidelines. Besides addressing the issues you mentioned, it's also a time-honored reference for how to professionally run a design business and how to buy and sell work. It includes:

• Descriptions of workflows in actual design studios -- including website design
• Technological issues, including ownership of digital files, document transfer, derivative works and use of
royalty-free images
• Two dozen standard contracts with an in-depth discussion of their importance and uses
• Recent court decisions and legislation affecting artwork and design
• Essential information on Character and Merchandise licensing
• A chapter dedicated to Surface and Textile design
• Global copyright issues
• And much more

It costs $35 and makes a terrific gift for your favorite clients and associates. Get it at the Graphic Artist Guild's website: www.gag.org/pegs.

This question was answered by Jay Nelson, Publisher & Editor, Design Tools Monthly. We love DTM's tips and advice and think you will, too. For a free sample PRINTED issue, contact Design Tools Monthly at 303-543-8400, e-mail info@design-tools.com, or go to their website: www.design-tools.com.