The use of images in a creative component/thesis, dissertation, manuscript, or presentation is an excellent way of conveying information to your audience. You may find a great image, like an illustrated diagram in a publication, a photo on the internet through a google search, or using pictures of equipment from the company you work for that could be used in your creative component. However, before an image can be used in academic work, it is the responsibility of the student to determine if an image can be used freely (from an open source) or if the use of an image requires permission. Because asking and gaining permissions to use a copyrighted image may take some time, be sure to plan in advance to get responses and answers from the owners of the copyrighted image before your final draft of your creative component is due.

For any image, complete the following process:

Determine if permission is needed
If permission is needed, identify the owner of the image/copyright
Ask for permission and inform the owner of your intent for using the image (i.e. for educational purposes)
Keep a record: Get your permission agreement in writing. An email is the best way to do this.
Cite the image according to the section in Module 2, Citation Guidelines for Figures
Prepare an appendix for permission(s) and add all redacted permissions for image use.