ACAP is a joint initiative of European Publishers Council, the World Association of Newspapers and the International Publishers Association. The original objectives of the project were to provide
• a framework that will allow any publisher, large or small, to express access and use policies in a language that search engines' robots and similar automated processes can be taught to understand.
• a proof of concept through a set of pilot implementations
• a business plan for future management of the outputs of the project
• a communication and public affairs programme to influence opinion
These were successfully delivered in 2007.
During 2008, the scope of ACAP’s technical work is being extended to other business relationships and other media types. Work is also ongoing to improve and finesse the specifications published in 2007.
Rightscom is the lead contractor and programme manager. We liaise with the Project Board and co-ordinate all the streams of work, including technical and legal. Rightscom also handles member recruitment and many of the press queries relating to the project.
For further information please go to http://www.the-acap.org