What is ISO 13756:2018?

ISO 13756:2018 is an international standard that provides guidelines for technical writing. It sets the requirements for the structure, content, and style of technical documents in various industries. This standard aims to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency in technical communication. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of ISO 13756:2018 and its implications for technical writers.

Key Elements of ISO 13756:2018

ISO 13756:2018 outlines several important elements that should be considered:

Structure: The standard emphasizes the importance of a logical and well-organized structure in technical documents. It suggests using headings, subheadings, and numbered lists to improve readability and facilitate navigation.

Content: ISO 13756:2018 stresses the need for clear and concise content. Technical writers should provide accurate information using appropriate terminology and avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex language.

Style: This standard highlights the significance of consistent style throughout the document. It recommends using a consistent tone, grammar, and punctuation, as well as maintaining a balance between formality and readability.

Illustrations and Graphics: ISO 13756:2018 suggests the effective use of illustrations, diagrams, and graphs to enhance understanding. Visual aids should be labeled clearly and referenced appropriately within the text.

Benefits of Following ISO 13756:2018

Adhering to ISO 13756:2018 offers several benefits for both technical writers and readers:

Improved Clarity: By following the guidelines set by ISO 13756:2018, technical writers can ensure that their documents are clear and easily understandable. This leads to better comprehension of complex information by the readers.

Enhanced Consistency: The standard promotes consistency in terminology, style, and formatting across different technical documents. Consistency fosters a professional image and prevents confusion among readers.

Time and Cost Savings: When technical documents adhere to ISO 13756:2018, it reduces the time and effort required for revisions and editing. This ultimately translates into cost savings for organizations.

Wider Accessibility: Following this international standard ensures that technical documents are accessible to a global audience. It removes language barriers and facilitates effective communication across diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Conclusion

ISO 13756:2018 plays a crucial role in guiding technical writers to create high-quality documents. By adhering to the structure, content, style, and visual guidelines outlined in this standard, technical writers can produce documents that are clear, consistent, and easily understandable. Compliance with ISO 13756:2018 not only benefits the writers but also the readers, leading to improved communication and efficiency in various industries.