What is ISO 21558

ISO 21558, also known as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 21558, is a set of standards that provides guidelines for writing professional technical documents. These standards are applicable to various industries and sectors, including engineering, information technology, and software development.

Benefits of ISO 21558

Adhering to ISO 21558 standards offers several benefits for professionals involved. Firstly, it provides a standardized framework for creating and organizing technical information, ensuring consistency and clarity in the content. This enhances communication between writers and readers, facilitating better understanding and comprehension of complex technical concepts.

Furthermore, ISO 21558 emphasizes the use of plain language, avoiding jargon and overly technical terms. This makes technical documents more accessible to a wider range of readers, including non-experts and those with limited technical knowledge. It promotes inclusivity and allows the information to be easily understood and used by diverse audiences.

Another advantage of adhering to ISO 21558 is that it emphasizes the importance of visual elements in technical documents. It encourages the inclusion of diagrams, charts, and illustrations to support the written content. Visual aids help readers visualize complex processes and concepts, enabling them to grasp the information more effectively.

Implementing ISO 21558

To implement ISO 21558, technical writers need to follow specific guidelines and practices. The standard recommends starting the document with a clear and concise executive summary, providing an of the main points covered in the document. This allows readers to quickly grasp the key information.

ISO 21558 also emphasizes the structuring of information into logical sections, using headings, subheadings, and numbered lists. This improves readability, enables easy navigation throughout the document, and helps readers locate specific information quickly.

In addition, the standard suggests incorporating tables and figures when appropriate to present data in a clear and organized manner. Using bullet points and lists also aids in breaking down complex information into digestible chunks, improving comprehension for readers.

Conclusion

The ISO 21558 standard provides valuable guidelines for creating professional technical documents. Adhering to these standards ensures consistency, clarity, and accessibility of information for readers. By implementing ISO 21558, technical writers can enhance communication, improve understanding, and create effective technical documents that cater to diverse audiences.