Online Communications Guidelines

Communication is an integral and necessary aspect of operations at Jacksonville ARTCC. ZJX and VATSIM provide means of communicating between controllers both on and off the network including Voice over IP, forums and VRC/ASRC chat functions. Please use common courtesy when communicating via any of these methods. Communication is encouraged provided the proper means are utilized appropriately:

Controller Chat Boxes 

• The primary function of chat boxes is for controllers to coordinate aircraft control and issue important information to a fellow controller.   These are normally done between the following controllers:  GND and TWR;  TWR and APP;  APP and CTR; and finally between CTR controllers.
• Be aware that due to the high density of traffic at the CTR position, that chats will sometimes remain unanswered.  The CTR controller may not have the free time to respond to any or all chat messages.
• Chat boxes, despite their name, are not for general chit chat.  This of course is up to the controllers, but keep in mind that they may be busy with traffic and unable to participate in a general conversation. 

Teamspeak Server 

The ZJX Teamspeak server is provided to controllers as a place for training, intrafacility coordination and any other ZJX related business. As a courtesy to all controllers please respect the following guidelines while connected to the server:

• Utilize the appropriate room for the position you are controlling. If you are training your Instructor or Mentor will advise you what training lab you should meet in.
  
• Staff offices are frequently used for privileged communications between staff members or staff members and other controllers. If you are not scheduled to meet with a staff member please ask permission before entering their office. Please do not enter an office if there is someone else already there.
  
• Utilize the ZJX Lounge if you are not connected to the network, training or meeting with a staff member.
  
• Use courtesy when in a facility room. Other controllers in that room will be communicating on the network and unnecessary chatter may distract them. When coordination is necessary state the position you are calling and your position and wait for a response.
  
• Do not at any time enter a testing room without prior invitation.
• Do not share the server IP or password with non ZJX rostered controllers.
  
• Limit unnecessary time you are connected. Bandwidth and player limits do apply to the server. Please refrain from sitting idly.
  
• Use common courtesy in all communication while on the Teamspeak server. Professional decorum and appropriate language is required. Disrespect toward any other member will not be tolerated and will result in a ban from the server and possible disciplinary action. 
  

The Jacksonville ARTCC Operating Policy section 3-3-4 contains the official policy related to the Teamspeak server. The Teamspeak server is a privately owned resource and as such the owner retains rights to enforce any rules or ban any member at their discretion with or without notice to the member or the Air Traffic Manager.

Forums

The forums are the main source of communication for everything outside active controlling and intrafacility coordination. The ZJX forums are available to controllers provided they are used appropriately.

• The forums are divided into sections for training, announcements, recognition and more. Please use the appropriate section for each post.
• Use appropriate and professional language at all times.
• Degrading or discriminatory remarks will not be tolerated under any circumstances and may result in loss of forum privileges and removal from the ZJX roster.
• Public forums are not an appropriate place for conflicts with other controllers or ZJX staff. If you have a problem with a controller or staff member please report it to the Air Traffic Manager or another senior staff member in a private email.
• Anything deemed inappropriate or offensive by the ZJX staff and any appointed forum moderators will be removed and a record made in the administration notes of the controller's roster entry.

Direct any questions or report misuse of these communications methods by contacting the Air Traffic Manager or another senior staff member by email.