What is ISO 55238:2018?

Introduction

ISO 55238:2018 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for an easy-to-understand technical writing style. It provides guidelines for creating clear and concise documentation, particularly in the field of technology and engineering. This article aims to explain the key aspects of this standard and its importance in facilitating effective communication.

Simplified Technical Communication

The main objective of ISO 55238:2018 is to promote simplified technical communication. This means using plain language and avoiding unnecessary jargon, acronyms, and complex sentence structures. By doing so, technical writers can ensure that their documents are easily understood by a wide range of readers, including those with limited knowledge of the subject matter.

Components of ISO 55238:2018

1. **Vocabulary control:** The standard encourages writers to use familiar words and phrases, maintaining consistency throughout the document. This helps readers grasp the content more quickly and reduces ambiguity.

2. **Structure and organization:** Clear and logical organization of information is essential to facilitate comprehension. ISO 55238:2018 suggests using headings, subheadings, bullet points, and tables to present information in a structured manner.

3. **Visual aids:** The use of diagrams, illustrations, and charts is highly encouraged to supplement the textual content. Visual aids not only enhance understanding but also make the document more visually appealing and engaging.

4. **Usability testing:** ISO 55238:2018 emphasizes the importance of usability testing to evaluate the effectiveness of technical documents. Conducting user tests allows authors to identify areas of improvement and ensures that the final document meets the needs of the target audience.

Benefits of Using ISO 55238:2018

Adopting the guidelines outlined in ISO 55238:2018 brings several benefits:

1. **Improved understanding:** By using simple and clear language, technical writers can ensure that readers understand the information accurately, minimizing the risk of misinterpretation.

2. **Reduced translation costs:** When technical documents are written in a simplified style, they become easier to translate into different languages. This can lead to significant cost savings for companies operating globally.

3. **Enhanced user experience:** Documents that adhere to ISO 55238:2018 are more user-friendly and intuitive. Readers can quickly find the information they need, resulting in a positive user experience.

4. **Increased productivity:** Easy-to-understand documentation saves time for both readers and writers. Users can grasp information faster, while authors spend less time answering questions or clarifying ambiguities.

Conclusion

ISO 55238:2018 provides valuable guidelines for creating easy-to-understand technical documentation. By adhering to its principles, writers can improve communication, enhance user experience, and facilitate global accessibility. Whether you are drafting user manuals, product specifications, or educational materials, adopting the standard's recommendations will undoubtedly benefit both you and your audience.