---
title: Communication Guidelines
description: "Team members communicate directly with authors through Blue Pen's messaging feature, which triggers emails, so long as the user has allowed them. ## Appropriate Communication Editors and designers are expected to communicate with authors regarding the services they are completing.…"
url: "https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/communication-guidelines/"
updated: "2023-10-19"
category: Team Docs
---

# Communication Guidelines

Team members communicate directly with authors through Blue Pen's messaging feature, which triggers emails, so long as the user has allowed them.

## Appropriate Communication

Editors and designers are expected to communicate with authors regarding the services they are completing. Examples of appropriate communication:

- Updates regarding the status of an edit
- Specific questions about an edit, within reason
- Questions about cover concepts or test pages
- Scheduling calls after a developmental edit
- Requesting additional materials

## Communication Beyond Expected Scope

Team members are not expected to provide author support beyond the scope of their services, such as:

- Publishing questions
- Ongoing coaching or support
- Payment questions

If an author requests support that is beyond the scope of your service, please direct them to search the Knowledge Base or book a paid consultation.

## Example Message

*I am happy to answer questions about the [edit or design service]. However, Blue Pen team members aren't expected to provide this kind of support. Most questions are answered in [the Knowledge Base](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/) (with step-by-step guides). For individual support, you can [book a one-on-one consultation](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/book-a-consultation/). For data requests, payment questions, and issues not covered in the Knowledge Base, you can use the [contact form](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/contact/).*

## Ongoing Issues

Please notify us if an author fails to respect these limitations. One message should be sufficient to clarify the scope of your expected communication.

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