Can you write a book based on tips from other people?

Question:

Can you write a book based on tips from other people?

For instance, if you want to write a how-to guide or a book of advice on a certain activity, but need to use tips from various other people, how does that work?

Do you pay each person or have them sign something saying they give this info to you to use?

Thanks for any advice on this process : )

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: If you collect them publicly (like Heloise) then the column policy is normally published permitting reuse. If you collect them privately then it is a little more complicated and the safest way is to get a release. The normal grounds for complaining would be copyright because you used their exact words (creative effort) because you can't copyright or patent ideas only expression of those ideas in specific form. I get permission to use ideas and suggestions on my website whether sent to me or posted elsewhere. I do not get permission to use short questions where I am publishing my answer.