What is ISO 20417:2019

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published a new standard in 2019, known as ISO 20417. This technical standard focuses on providing guidelines for writing documents that are easy to understand. In this article, we will discuss the key aspects of ISO 20417 and how it can help improve technical writing.

Importance of ISO 20417:2019

Clear and concise documentation is essential in various fields, including technology, engineering, and manufacturing. Misunderstandings or ambiguities in technical documents can lead to costly errors, safety hazards, and inefficiencies. ISO 20417 aims to address these issues by providing guidelines and best practices for creating user-friendly and accessible technical content.

Not only does ISO 20417 emphasize the importance of clarity and simplicity, but it also highlights the significance of organizing information effectively. Providing clear headings, subheadings, and logical structure helps readers locate relevant information quickly and navigate complex documents with ease.

Key Features of ISO 20417:2019

ISO 20417 introduces several key features to enhance the readability and understanding of technical documents:

Simplified language: The standard encourages the use of simple and concise language, avoiding technical jargon and complex terms whenever possible. This makes the content more accessible to a broader audience, including non-experts in the field.

Visual aids: ISO 20417 recommends the use of images, diagrams, charts, and other visual elements to supplement written content. Visual aids can help clarify complex concepts, improve comprehension, and make the document more visually appealing.

Consistent formatting: Standardizing the formatting of technical documents is crucial for maintaining consistency and easy navigation. ISO 20417 provides guidelines for font size, headings, subheadings, bullet points, tables, and other formatting elements.

Glossary and definitions: To avoid confusion, ISO 20417 suggests including a glossary of key terms and providing clear definitions within the document itself. This helps readers understand technical terminology and ensures uniform understanding throughout.

Benefits of ISO 20417:2019

The benefits of implementing ISO 20417 are numerous:

Improved comprehension: By following the guidelines in ISO 20417, technical writers can communicate complex information more clearly, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings.

User-friendly documentation: Technical documents that adhere to ISO 20417 are easier for readers to navigate and understand. This improves user experience and reduces frustration.

Enhanced safety: Clear and concise instructions can help prevent safety hazards and minimize risks, particularly in industries where accurate comprehension of technical information is crucial.

Consistency across documents: ISO 20417 promotes consistent formatting, structure, and language use across different documents. This fosters coherence within an organization and facilitates collaboration.