Terms of service

Introduction

This document sets out the terms of use of the Cartesiani.it (“Cartesiani”) website, services, and products. You should also review our Privacy Policy (https://cartesiani.it/index.php/privacy-policy/), which describes in detail our information management practices. Acceptance of the Terms Before you start using Cartesiani.it and all related pages (the “Site”), you must read, understand, and accept these Terms of Use (the “Terms”). By accessing the Site, viewing any content, or using any services available on the Site, you agree to be bound by these Terms, which, together with our Privacy Policy (https://cartesiani.it/index.php/privacy-policy/), govern our relationship with you. You may access the Site only after having read and accepted these Terms.

Description of the Site

The Site is an online space dedicated to people interested in organizational and professional knowledge and in the methods, tools, and practices that improve how such knowledge is created, managed, and communicated within organizations. Over the years, the topics have evolved into five main thematic areas: lifelong learning, knowledge creation, knowledge automation, digital collaboration, people & knowledge analytics.

This space consists of four main components:

1. Blog – A section offering a selection of articles and tutorials open to all users, including non-registered visitors.

2. Academy – A section offering training content in various formats: PRO TRACK programs (training paths of at least 6 months), Masterclasses (highly specialized programs on vertical topics), Workshops, Courses, and individual and/or group Coaching paths. These programs are enriched with asynchronous video micro-lessons that, through theoretical insights and practical content, provide a comprehensive overview of the disciplines covered in the 5 Cartesiani thematic areas. Each format has specific features and slightly different terms of use, which are detailed further below in this page, providing clear rules for each of them. The purchase of certain training products also includes access to the Cartesiani Community.

3. Community – A reserved area where registered users can join one or more thematic groups (corresponding to the Site’s thematic areas), share their projects, contribute and learn in forums, connect with other users, and ask questions to Instructors and/or Group Moderators. Registered users also gain access to exclusive, free “Premium” content: podcasts (video and audio), talks (including with external guests), online events, exclusive articles and/or video tutorials. These “Premium” contents are only accessible to those who have access to the Community. The Community is also a place for sharing and social interaction. The Site allows users to publish photos, images, videos and audio, share comments, opinions and ideas, connect and interact with other users, and participate in dedicated events.

4. Online Store – A section dedicated to the sale of both training products and physical items (t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, posters, etc.). “Training Products” are sold and delivered directly by Cartesiani. “Physical Products” are mainly sold through a drop shipping model. The specific conditions applicable to each of these product categories (“Training Products”, “Physical Products”) are described in detail in the sections below.

Access to the Site

Access to and use of the Site may occasionally be interrupted due to equipment malfunction, updating, maintenance or repair of the Site, or for any other reason within or beyond Cartesiani’s control. Cartesiani reserves the right to suspend or terminate the availability of the Site and/or any Service and/or remove any Content at any time, at its sole discretion and without notice. Cartesiani may also impose limits on certain features and Services or restrict users’ access to parts or all of the Site and Services without notice or liability. The Site must not be used as a storage space for your photos, images, videos, audio, or any other content you upload. You are invited to keep your own copies of all Content you publish on the Site. User-uploaded documents may periodically be deleted to free up space or maintain the efficiency of the infrastructure.

Registration and Account Management

Some parts of the Site are accessible to all users regardless of registration. However, you must create an account (register) with Cartesiani to use certain Services and/or purchase our products. The Services and registration are only available to individuals who are at least 18 years old. For this purpose, you will be required to choose a username and password and provide registration details. Please use an email address you check frequently and add info@cartesiani.it to your contacts to ensure you receive all communications. Among your profile information, we also request your phone number (preferably mobile) and your address. This information is used exclusively to manage activities related to purchased services and products or to share initiatives related to the platform itself. For purchases of Physical Products, the address is necessary for shipping, and the phone number may be useful for direct communication if needed. We also request a physical address from those purchasing digital training products, as we may occasionally surprise our customers with small “phygital” initiatives. Companies and freelancers (with VAT number) may enter their billing details to receive an electronic invoice. This information is never shared with third parties nor used for unrelated communications. The registration data provided must always be accurate, complete, and up to date. Failure to do so constitutes a breach of these Terms, which may result in the immediate closure of the account. You may not use as a username the name of another person or entity, a name that is not lawfully available for use, a name or trademark subject to the rights of another person or entity without proper authorization, a name that may mislead others into thinking you are another person or company, or a name that is otherwise offensive, vulgar, or obscene. You are responsible for keeping your login credentials secure and are solely responsible for all activities that occur under your account. You must immediately notify Cartesiani of any unauthorized use of your account or any other breach of security. Cartesiani shall not be liable for any acts or omissions by you, including any damages of any kind incurred as a result of such acts or omissions. In case of breach of this clause, Cartesiani will delete the Customer’s account, who will no longer be able to access the purchased service and will not be entitled to any refund. If you are using our Services on behalf of a company, such company accepts these Terms. You must be a human being to open an account. Accounts registered by “bots” or other automated methods are not permitted.

Conduct of Registered Users

If you operate an account, comment on content or posts, publish material on the Site, post links on the Site, or otherwise make (or allow any third party to make) material available through the Site, you are entirely responsible for the content and any harm resulting from that Content. This applies regardless of the type of Content (e.g. images, videos, audio, links, etc.). Cartesiani moderates groups but does not systematically control user-submitted Content and therefore does not guarantee the accuracy, integrity, or quality of such Content. You understand that by using this Site you may be exposed to Content that is offensive, indecent, or objectionable. Users can report to Administrators and Group Moderators any content they consider offensive; Cartesiani may, at its sole discretion, take action. As a condition of use, you agree not to use the Services for any unlawful purpose or any purpose prohibited by these Terms, or for any other purpose not reasonably intended by Cartesiani.

By way of example and not limitation, you agree not to use the Services:

• To abuse, harass, threaten, impersonate, or intimidate any person.

• To post or transmit, or have posted or transmitted, any Content that is libelous, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, offensive, abusive, blasphemous, or that infringes any copyright or other rights of any person.

• For any purpose (including publishing or displaying Content) not permitted under the laws of the jurisdiction in which you use the Services.

• To post or transmit, or have posted or transmitted, any communication or solicitation designed or intended to obtain passwords, accounts, or private information from any Cartesiani user.

• To create or transmit unwanted “spam” to any person or URL.

• To post copyrighted Content that you do not own, except in the “Forums”, where you may post such Content with the explicit mention of the author’s name and a link to the source.

• To install or distribute any viruses, malware, or other harmful or destructive content.

Use of the Site and Services must comply strictly with the Cartesiani Privacy Policy, these Terms, any other legal notice posted on the Site by Cartesiani, and all applicable laws and regulations (including, without limitation, local laws and regulations regarding online conduct and acceptable content, and all applicable laws regarding the transmission of technical data exported from the United States or from the country where you reside). If you suspect any abuse of the Site or breach of these Terms (other than copyright violations, which are addressed under “Copyright Complaints” below), you may send an email with all relevant details to: info@cartesiani.it. Cartesiani reserves the right to ban any member from using the Services for any reason. Cartesiani reserves the right to remove any Content (including, but not limited to, projects, comments, messages, avatars, etc.) for any reason. Without limiting any of these representations or warranties, Cartesiani has the right (but not the obligation), at Cartesiani’s sole discretion, to (i) refuse or remove any Content that, in Cartesiani’s reasonable opinion, violates the Terms or is in any way harmful or objectionable, or (ii) terminate or deny access to the Site to any individual or entity for any reason. You are solely responsible for your interactions with other users of the Site. Cartesiani reserves the right, but has no obligation, to monitor disputes between you and other users.

Gamification and Premium Credits (“Assi”)

Cartesiani includes a gamification system with two main objectives. The first objective is to encourage users to complete learning experiences by awarding points for each activity completed and for successfully passing quizzes or exercises. Each thematic area is associated with specific types of points; upon reaching certain thresholds, users obtain increasing “Ranks” and “Levels” that demonstrate the consolidation of their skills in that area. Points may also grant “Badges” certifying the completion of specific paths. Periodically, “Challenges” are launched in which only the top (or best) users earn additional points. The second objective is to reward certain user behaviors by assigning credits called “Assi”, which can be used to unlock access to “Premium Content” on the Site or to receive discounts on Store purchases. These Assi are granted, for example, upon first registration, for sharing an article on social media, for purchasing a product (training or physical), and for other activities specified from time to time. A dedicated page on the Site (https://cartesiani.it/index.php/gamificazione-e-crediti/) transparently and continuously updates the list of activities and corresponding credit rewards.

Terms of Purchase and Use of “Training Products”

As indicated above, Cartesiani’s training content is currently structured and offered in different formats. Below is a detailed description of each format and the related terms of purchase and use.

MASTERCLASS “Masterclass” refers to training programs delivered over several months, consisting of 8 to 10 modules, mainly (but not exclusively) made up of asynchronous sessions and synchronous sessions (any live sessions are recorded and later made available for on-demand access). In addition to these predominantly theoretical contents, the programs include quizzes and practical exercises, individual coaching sessions (at key stages of the path), and a personalized project work. A certificate of participation is issued upon completion. Masterclasses may currently be sold directly to individuals (B2C) or to companies, either directly or via third-party training organizations (B2B).

WORKSHOP “Workshop” refers to short training initiatives that usually include one or two live sessions plus some practical exercises and possibly supplementary asynchronous video content. • In the case of a single-session workshop, participants receive a certificate of participation at the end of the session. They then receive practical exercises to complete at their own pace and a final quiz to obtain a final certificate. • In the case of a two-session workshop, practical exercises are assigned between sessions, and feedback is provided during the second session. Each session includes Q&A moments where participants can ask questions via chat and receive specific feedback and insights. Online sessions have a maximum number of participants (typically 30) to ensure effective interaction management. Workshops are sold through the Cartesiani online store also to individual private users. As online sessions, they take place on specific dates. Once the purchase is completed, the user is added to the Workshop group and receives an email with all information on the workshop and access instructions. Sessions are conducted via the Clickmeeting webinar/web-meeting platform, accessible via web browser (desktop or mobile app). Access to the content and platform requires only a web browser and an internet connection.

COURSES “Courses” are training paths delivered in asynchronous mode, at the pace chosen by the Customer (self-paced learning). Courses include video lessons, audio podcasts, quizzes, and practical exercises. These products are sold online also to individual private users. After completing the purchase, the user receives an email with direct access to the course content. Access requires only a web browser and an internet connection. Companies may request multi-user packages.

COACHING “Coaching” refers to individual coaching paths delivered over several weeks or months. Coaching products available for direct purchase on the Site are delivered exclusively online through one-to-one web-meeting sessions. Between sessions, asynchronous activities may be assigned both to the Coach (who also acts as a Consultant) and to the Coachee. The complete program of each coaching package is detailed in the respective product page. Customized or group coaching programs are also available via traditional B2B sales processes. Once the package is purchased, participants receive via email the instructions to access the platform and follow the coaching path. Session schedules are agreed with the Client. Online sessions are held via Google Meet web-meeting platform, accessible through a web browser. If requested by the Client, another web-meeting platform may be used. Access to the content and platform requires only a web browser and an internet connection.

PRO TRACK “PRO TRACK” programs are the most comprehensive and structured paths offered by the platform. They are thematic programs (linked to one of the 5 thematic areas) and may be available at different levels depending on the participant’s starting point. Their duration is at least 6 months and may extend to 9 or 12 months, depending on participant availability. They usually include: • an initial asynchronous, predominantly theoretical phase; • subsequent participation (agreed with the Instructor) in vertical synchronous workshops; • practical application in real projects related to the participant’s work context. At the end of a period deemed appropriate by the Instructor, the participant takes a theoretical exam which, together with the assessment of their projects, leads to a certificate attesting the achievement of the level associated with the path. Compared to a Masterclass, PRO TRACK programs have a broader time horizon, more flexibility, and stronger focus on the participant’s operational context.

TAILOR-MADE TRAINING Upon request, companies may ask for customized training programs. The fee is agreed as a lump sum based on the program, level of customization, any travel costs, and the number of participants. Payment is typically made via bank transfer. Once the purchase is confirmed, a dedicated group is created exclusively for participants, and the agreed users are activated. All participants then receive via email the instructions to access the platform and follow the training path. The overall schedule is defined together with the Client. In-person sessions are also streamed online (for remote workers) and then made available on the Cartesiani platform in a space dedicated to the group, along with additional materials, exercises, and any other relevant resources. Online sessions are held via the Google Meet webinar/web-meeting platform, accessible via web browser (desktop or mobile app). Online sessions are recorded and made available, as for in-person sessions, together with all relevant materials. If the Client requests the use of another web-meeting platform, the Client will be responsible for promptly providing Cartesiani with the recordings so that they can be shared with the class. Access to content and the platform requires only a web browser and an internet connection. The product pages on the Site specify the features of the online training products and the hardware/software requirements necessary for the Customer to follow the programs and use the services. The Customer undertakes to read all such information carefully. The content of training products may be updated, modified, or partially/fully replaced in order to improve the service. Such changes will be notified to the Customer directly. The contract between Cartesiani and the Customer is deemed concluded when the Customer submits the payment order for the service and such order is successfully processed. By paying the amount due, the Customer expressly agrees to the performance of the contract with Cartesiani and expressly accepts the loss of the right of withdrawal as provided under Article 59, letter o) of the Italian Consumer Code (Legislative Decree no. 206/2005). Once payment is completed, the Customer will receive, at the email address provided, a confirmation email summarizing the purchase and payment, and an email containing instructions to access the purchased training products. Within 30 (thirty) days of purchase, the Customer will receive, via the same channels, a receipt or invoice, depending on whether the tax information fields (Tax Code or VAT number, registered tax address, any SDI code or PEC address) were filled in. The Customer undertakes to verify the accuracy of the data in this email and in their profile and to promptly notify Cartesiani of any corrections or additions. Customers who purchase a non-customized training product have unlimited access to the dedicated group, online sessions, their recordings, and all content associated with the path. Customers who purchase a customized training product have access to the dedicated group, online sessions, their recordings, and all content associated with the path for a period of 365 days from the date of the final synchronous session of the product. On that date, an email is sent specifying the end date of access. Non-video materials (if downloaded by the Customer) may be retained by the Customer but may not be shared or distributed. In case a “Training Product” is sold through Third Parties, these Terms of Sale are deemed accepted by the third-party entity selling the product.

Terms of Purchase of “Physical Products”

As indicated above, Cartesiani’s “Physical Products” are currently designed and created by the Cartesiani Team but produced, managed, and shipped via a drop shipping model in collaboration with Printful. This means that products are made on demand, and logistics are managed by Printful’s production and fulfillment centers located worldwide. Based on the shipping address provided at checkout, orders are printed and shipped from the facility that can process them most efficiently. Production usually requires 3–7 business days, after which the order is shipped. Delivery times depend on location and are approximately: • USA: 3–4 business days • Europe: 6–8 business days • Australia: 2–14 business days • Japan: 4–8 business days • International: 10–20 business days At checkout, the cart provides an updated estimate based on the specific product and production center. Customs duties may apply to international orders. These charges are beyond our control and vary by country; please contact your local customs office to check applicable duties and taxes. You will receive a tracking link when your order is shipped. For questions about this or about shipping, please contact info@cartesiani.it.

Return and Refund Policy (Physical Products)

If the product you ordered arrives damaged or defective, email us at info@cartesiani.it within one week of delivery, including photos of the product, the order number, and any relevant details. We will reply as soon as possible to find a solution. Refunds are offered only for defective or damaged items. We do not accept size or color exchanges. If you are unsure about sizing, please refer to the size guide on the product page. In rare cases, an item may have an incorrect label. If this occurs, please contact us at info@cartesiani.it within one week of delivery, including the order number and photos showing the incorrect label; we will arrange a replacement or a refund. Payments Customers may pay for Training Products and Physical Products via PayPal and Stripe. Bank transfer payments are accepted only upon explicit request from the Customer (by writing to info@cartesiani.it) and for amounts over €1,000 (e.g. multi-user purchases or Masterclasses). The credit cards accepted are specified on the Site at the time of purchase. The actual charge will be made when the Customer submits the order. When using PayPal, PayPal is solely responsible for any issues related to the payment tool. When using credit cards via Stripe, Stripe is solely responsible for any issues related to the payment tool. Any access to installment or deferred payment options depends on the policies of the payment providers; Cartesiani cannot activate or modify such options.

Right of Withdrawal (Training Products)

You have 30 days to evaluate the course. If you are not satisfied, you may request a full refund by writing to support@cartesiani.it. To protect the quality of the programs and the community, the request is valid only if you have completed less than 30% of the course and have not yet downloaded any certification materials.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These General Terms of Sale are governed by Italian law. For Private Customers, any dispute relating to these General Terms of Sale that cannot be resolved amicably shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the court of the Customer’s place of residence or domicile. The Customer may also attempt to resolve any dispute concerning a purchase made on the Site through the ODR (Online Dispute Resolution) platform created and managed by the European Union at: https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr. For Professional Customers or Companies, any dispute relating to these General Terms of Sale that cannot be resolved amicably shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Court of Treviso (Italy).

Last update: 01 November 2025. This version supersedes all previous versions in their entirety.