What is EN 51081?

EN 51081 is a technical standard that defines the requirements for writing technical documents, such as user manuals, assembly instructions, and product specifications. It ensures that these documents are easy to understand and follow, regardless of the reader's technical background or language proficiency.

Who benefits from EN 51081?

All stakeholders involved in the creation, distribution, and use of technical documents benefit from EN 51081. Manufacturers and organizations can create clear and concise instructions, improving customer satisfaction and reducing support costs. Consumers and end-users benefit from better comprehension of how to use products safely and effectively. Translators and localizers benefit from standardized guidelines, making it easier to accurately translate technical information into different languages.

Key principles of EN 51081

EN 51081 incorporates several key principles to ensure effective communication in technical documents.

Clarity: Information should be presented in a clear and unambiguous manner. Complex concepts should be explained using simple language and illustrative examples.

Consistency: The terminology, style, and formatting used within the document should be consistent throughout. This helps readers easily navigate and comprehend the content.

Accessibility: Technical documents should be accessible to users with different levels of technical knowledge. They should also consider users with visual or hearing impairments by using inclusive design practices.

Conciseness: Unnecessary repetition and verbosity should be avoided. Technical documents should convey information concisely while still providing all necessary details.

Complying with EN 51081

To comply with EN 51081, technical writers should follow the guidelines outlined in the standard. These guidelines cover various aspects of document creation, including structure, language usage, graphical elements, and quality assurance.

They should begin by analyzing the target audience and their specific needs. This helps in determining the appropriate level of technicality and selecting the most effective communication style. Structuring the document logically and using headings, subheadings, and lists aids comprehension and facilitates easy navigation.

In terms of language usage, writers should avoid jargon and acronyms that may be unfamiliar to the intended audience. When technical terms are necessary, they should provide clear definitions or explanations. Visual aids such as diagrams, illustrations, and charts can enhance understanding, especially for complex concepts or procedures.

Quality assurance is an essential part of complying with EN 51081. Proofreading and editing should be done to ensure accuracy, consistency, and adherence to the standard's guidelines. User testing and feedback can also help identify areas for improvement.

By adhering to EN 51081, technical writers can create documents that are user-friendly, ensuring efficient and safe use of products and services.