What is EN ISO 31220:2018?

EN ISO 31220:2018 is a professional technical standard that provides guidelines for the writing and presentation of technical documents. It is specifically developed to assist writers in producing clear, concise, and consistent technical content across various industries and disciplines.

The Purpose and Scope

The purpose of EN ISO 31220:2018 is to establish a set of rules and conventions for technical writing that ensure effective communication between the writer and the reader. It aims to improve the quality and readability of technical documents by promoting standardized terminology, structure, and formatting.

This standard applies to different types of technical documents, including manuals, procedures, specifications, reports, and guidelines. It is relevant to industries such as engineering, manufacturing, software development, and scientific research.

Key Guidelines and Requirements

EN ISO 31220:2018 outlines various guidelines and requirements to be followed when writing technical documents. Here are some key points:

Clarity and Accuracy: Technical documents should use clear, precise language and avoid excessive jargon or complex terms. Information should be accurate, factual, and free from ambiguity.

Structure and Organization: Documents should have a logical and consistent structure with clearly defined sections and headings. The information should flow smoothly, and the document should be easy to navigate.

Visual Presentation: The use of tables, figures, and diagrams is encouraged to enhance understanding and clarity. These visuals should be properly labeled and referenced within the text.

Consistent Terminology: To avoid confusion, technical documents should use consistent terminology, abbreviations, and units of measurement throughout.

References and Citations: When referencing external sources, proper citation guidelines should be followed to give credit to the original authors and maintain intellectual property rights.

Language and Translation: If the document is intended for an international audience, considerations for translation and localization should be taken into account to ensure accurate and culturally appropriate communication.

Benefits of Following EN ISO 31220:2018

Complying with EN ISO 31220:2018 can bring several benefits to both writers and readers of technical documents:

Improved Readability: By following standardized guidelines, technical documents become easier to read and understand. This enhances the overall user experience and reduces the likelihood of confusion or misinterpretation.

Consistency and Coherence: Standardization ensures that different technical documents within an organization or industry follow the same rules, leading to a cohesive body of knowledge and facilitating effective collaboration.

Time and Cost Savings: Well-structured and clear technical documents reduce the time required for training and troubleshooting. Clear instructions also minimize errors and decrease the need for repeated communication or clarification.

International Compatibility: Adopting EN ISO 31220:2018 allows technical documents to be easily understood and used by a global audience, as it provides guidelines for effective translation and localization.

In conclusion, EN ISO 31220:2018 is a valuable standard that provides comprehensive guidelines for writing technical documents. Following these guidelines improves readability, consistency, and overall quality of technical content. By promoting clarity, accuracy, and standardized practices, this standard contributes to efficient knowledge transfer and effective communication in various industries.