What is ISO 9241-307: 2017 ?

Title: Understanding ISO 9241-307: 2017: A Guide for Technical Writers

ISO 9241-307: 2017 is a set of international standards that focuses on user-centered design for interactive systems. This standard is specifically designed to provide guidelines and recommendations for the design process, with the aim of enhancing usability and user satisfaction. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of ISO 9241-307: 2017 and discuss its significance in professional technical writing.

Purpose of ISO 9241-307: 2017:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 specifically addresses the needs of technical writers and content creators involved in creating user documentation for software and other interactive systems. The purpose is to ensure that the information provided to users is clear, concise, and easy to understand. By following the guidelines outlined in this standard, technical writers can create user documentation that is effective and user-friendly.

Key Guidelines and Recommendations:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 provides several key guidelines and recommendations for technical writers to follow when creating user documentation. These guidelines aim to ensure that the information provided to users is clear, concise, and easy to understand. The key guidelines and recommendations are as follows:

Understand the User:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 emphasizes the importance of understanding the user's needs and requirements. The technical writer should gather information about the target audience, their level of technical knowledge, and the context in which the software or system will be used. This information will help the technical writer to create user documentation that is relevant and useful to the users.

Keep it Clear and Concise:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 recommends that technical writers should keep their documentation clear and concise. This means using simple language and avoiding unnecessary details that may confuse the users. The technical writer should also use appropriate formatting and layout to make the documentation easy to read and follow.

Use a consistent Style:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 also recommends that technical writers should use a consistent style for their documentation. This will help to create a unified and cohesive look and feel for the user documentation. The technical writer should also ensure that the style is consistent across all relevant documentation.

Ensure Readability:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the user documentation is readable. This means using appropriate fonts and font sizes, avoiding unnecessary clutter, and using clear and concise language. The technical writer should also ensure that the user documentation is easy to navigate and the information is presented in a logical order.

Conclusion:

ISO 9241-307: 2017 is a set of international standards that provides guidelines and recommendations for the design process, with the aim of enhancing usability and user satisfaction. By following the guidelines outlined in this standard, technical writers can create user documentation that is effective and user-friendly. By understanding the user's needs and requirements, using a consistent style, and ensuring readability, technical writers can create user documentation that meets the needs of their audience and helps them to achieve their goals.