do i need permission?

[simkeechai]

well, i just came out arguing with my colleague regarding the issue of asking for permission to put a reference site's link/url in our website.
Do i need to seek permission to the reference sites if i want to direct my visitors to read their manual or technical publication?

[jatar_k]

Welcome to WebmasterWorld simkeechai

no you don't, as long as you are not reproducing any of their content. If it is just a link to a valuable resource then you don't need to ask at all.

[Robin_reala]

Of course, they might say you need permission but that's hardly legally enforcable.

[monkeythumpa]

You can even reproduce thier content as long as you abide by "fair use" criteria. Alas, here is there the waters get muddy . . .

[simkeechai]

do you guys know any is there any article that discusses this topic?

i really appreciate your help!

[Quadrille]

Do I need to seek permission to the reference sites if I want to direct my visitors to read their manual or technical publication?

You do not need their permission to link to that content.

But you do need permission before reproducing that content on your site - whether on your pages, or by framing their pages.

But Links Are Fine. ;)

[larryhatch]

I was going to say "just go ahead and link".

Better idea. Go ahead and ASK permission! Why?
The other site may be so impressed / surprised that they link right back! Think about it.
Instead of "We have linked to your site and expect a link back or we will yank your new link .."
you are just asking permission to link over, no strings attached.
Its good manners and better psychology all the way around.
If they don't link back, don't fuss about it, move on to the next resource.

For crying out loud, don't scrape their content. -Larry