What is ISO 55158:2018?

ISO 55158:2018 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for the technical documentation of products and services. It provides guidelines and recommendations for creating clear, concise, and consistent technical documents that aid in the communication of important information to users, consumers, and other stakeholders.

Why is ISO 55158:2018 important?

Clear and accurate technical documentation is crucial for any product or service. ISO 55158:2018 ensures that such documentation meets specific quality standards, making it easier for users to understand and use the product effectively. Whether it's a user manual, installation guide, or maintenance instructions, adhering to this standard helps organizations provide comprehensive and reliable information to their customers.

Main principles of ISO 55158:2018

The standard emphasizes several key principles that should be followed when creating technical documentation:

Accuracy: Information provided in the document should be correct and precise. Any ambiguity or inconsistency must be avoided to prevent confusion among users.

Clarity: The language used should be simple, understandable, and free from unnecessary jargon. Diagrams, illustrations, and graphs can also be included to enhance clarity.

Completeness: The documentation should cover all relevant aspects of the product or service, including instructions, specifications, warnings, and troubleshooting guidelines.

Consistency: Consistent formatting, terminology, and style throughout the document ensure uniformity and coherence.

Accessibility: The document should be accessible to individuals with different levels of technical expertise. Instructions should be provided in a step-by-step manner, and glossaries or indexes can be included for easy referencing.

Benefits of complying with ISO 55158:2018

Organizations that adhere to ISO 55158:2018 can enjoy numerous benefits:

Improved user experience: Clear and comprehensive documentation makes it easier for users to understand and utilize the product effectively, improving their overall experience.

Reduced support costs: Well-documented products require less customer support, resulting in cost savings for organizations.

Enhanced reputation: A commitment to producing high-quality technical documentation demonstrates professionalism and builds trust among customers and stakeholders.

Compliance with legal requirements: Adhering to this international standard ensures compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements regarding product information and safety.

In conclusion, ISO 55158:2018 provides essential guidelines for creating technical documentation that is accurate, clear, complete, consistent, and accessible. By following these principles, organizations can enhance the user experience, reduce support costs, and improve their overall reputation. Compliance with this standard also ensures legal compliance and customer satisfaction, making it a valuable asset for any organization involved in the production of technical documents.