What is ISO 20417:2016?

ISO 20417:2016 is an international standard that provides guidelines for writing professional technical documents. It is applicable to all types of technical documentation, including user manuals, specifications, reports, and guides. This standard aims to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency, making it easier for readers to understand and follow the information provided.

The Importance of ISO 20417:2016

Effective technical writing plays a crucial role in various industries, such as engineering, manufacturing, and software development. ISO 20417:2016 helps organizations maintain high standards in their technical documentation, which ultimately improves communication with their target audience. Clear and concise technical documents prevent misunderstandings, reduce errors or accidents, and enhance overall efficiency.

Key Guidelines of ISO 20417:2016

ISO 20417:2016 outlines several key guidelines that technical writers should follow:

Terminology: Standardized terminology ensures consistent understanding and interpretation across different documents. Writers should use precise and well-defined terms, avoiding jargon or ambiguous language.

Structure and Organization: A logical and consistent structure is essential for technical documents. Clear headings, subheadings, and sections help readers navigate through the content and locate the information they need easily.

Visuals: Including relevant visuals, such as diagrams, illustrations, and tables, can greatly aid understanding. However, the visual elements need to be clear, labeled correctly, and properly referred to within the text.

Language and Style: Technical documents should use plain language that is easy to understand for the target audience. Sentence structures should be simple and concise, and unnecessary jargon or acronyms should be avoided.

References and Citations: When referring to external sources or citing information, writers should follow established citation styles, such as APA or MLA. This helps maintain consistency and allows readers to access the original sources if necessary.

Conclusion

ISO 20417:2016 is a valuable resource for technical writers and organizations striving to produce professional and effective technical documentation. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this standard, writers can improve clarity, accuracy, and overall communication in their technical writing, benefiting both the writer and the reader.