Nuts and Bolts: Intellectual Property
October 27, 2017
Nuts & Bolts – Intellectual Property
There are many images, phrases, lyrics that are intellectual property and cannot be used on cards offered on GCU. GCU tends to take a more conservative IP position on product submissions compared to other POD sites. The review team will review IP considerations on card submissions, however it is the artist’s responsibility to first do their due diligence before designing and submitting. As a rule of thumb, if in doubt, leave it out.
Here is a helpful link to the Marketability: Intellectual Property Submission Guideline. And partial listing on GCU’s Wiki of Intellectual Property to avoid.
TIP: If the review team feels your submission has merit without the IP content and you are committed to your original design, explore how you can revise and salvage the design. Often, it is possible and fruitful. No need to throw the baby out with the bath water! The review team is happy to work with you.
Here is an excellent example by artist Susan Nollmeyer of Sunshine Studio who worked with the review team to revise a submission with VW Bug vehicle IP elements. Thank you, Susan!

And similarly GCU artist, Ron Magnes who worked with the review team to make some minor edits removing IP content spoof of Girls Gone Wild. Thanks, Ron!

The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
GCU Community Manager
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