Is there a better phrase than "rules list" to imply something you need to read without carrying bureaucratic/procedural connotations?
I'm looking for a substitute word or phrase for "rules list." I find this phrase has a key problem: it carries heavy bureaucratic or procedural connotations, and can dissuade people from joining the discussion.
No matter how it's phrased, a "Hey, mind reading the rules first?" carries such a connotation, and I'd like to be rid of it. However, it still needs to communicate the idea that it's a document you need to read, so phrases like "help document" or "FAQ" are out - those imply that you consult them when needed for reference.
Is there a good substitute for "rules" that implies it's not some procedural/formal/bureaucratic process, but also implies it's still necessary to read?
Solution 1:
Anything which is going to be enforced is going to seem at least somewhat oppressive but perhaps some options are better than others.
My opinion is that code of conduct is a relatively nice alternative though. I think it sounds relatively genteel at least. The Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus defines it as:
A set of rules about how to behave and do business with other people:
The pharmaceutical industry's voluntary code of conduct says doctors may not be given gifts in exchange for an agreement to prescribe a product.
The literal signification of the words is rather interesting too. It basically means the laws which originates from or belongs to direction, leadership or guidance. The last three links lead to Noah Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language definitions of each word in the phrase if you want more details, although I doubt you will.
Solution 2:
guidelines, direction, principle, procedure, protocol, conventions, norms .. For example:
Hey, mind reading the guidelines first.
Solution 3:
Please consider charter
charter(noun)
a document that describes the basic laws, principles, etc., of a group
Merriam-Webster
Usage:
Kindly read and follow the community charter before posting to avoid getting marked for abuse.
You can explicitly state that it is essential to read this document before participating in the group. I am a moderator for a bunch of internal online communities and discussion boards at my office and I prefer the term "community charter" and it works well for me.