What is ISO 9357:2018?

ISO 9357:2018 is a widely recognized technical standard that provides guidelines and recommendations for effective technical writing. It helps writers produce clear, concise, and consistent technical documentation, ensuring that information is accessible and understandable for users. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of the key principles and concepts outlined in ISO 9357:2018.

Structure and Organization

The first important aspect emphasized by ISO 9357:2018 is the structure and organization of technical documents. A well-structured document enables readers to locate information quickly and easily. The standard recommends using a logical hierarchy with headings and subheadings to break down the content into manageable sections. This ensures that the information flows logically and facilitates navigation within the document.

Furthermore, ISO 9357:2018 suggests using lists, tables, and figures when appropriate to enhance readability and comprehension. These visual aids serve as valuable supplements to the text, enabling readers to grasp complex concepts more easily.

Terminology and Definitions

Consistency in terminology is crucial to avoid confusion and misunderstandings. ISO 9357:2018 highlights the importance of using standardized terms and providing clear definitions. Adopting a controlled vocabulary facilitates communication among experts and end-users alike.

The standard also emphasizes the need to define abbreviations and acronyms upon first use and to maintain a glossary for quick reference. This helps eliminate ambiguity and ensures that readers can fully comprehend the technical terms used throughout the document.

Clarity and Conciseness

Clear and concise writing is vital in technical documents to promote effective communication. ISO 9357:2018 encourages writers to focus on conveying information accurately and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary jargon, verbosity, and ambiguity.

When explaining complex concepts, the standard suggests using simple language, breaking down the information into digestible chunks, and providing real-life examples or analogies to aid understanding. Additionally, the use of active voice, short sentences, and consistent terminology further enhances clarity and readability.

Conclusion

ISO 9357:2018 serves as a valuable resource for technical writers, offering comprehensive guidelines on structuring, organizing, and presenting technical information effectively. By adhering to the principles outlined in this standard, writers can ensure that their documentation is user-friendly, facilitating better comprehension and usability for readers.

In conclusion, ISO 9357:2018 equips technical writers with essential tools to produce high-quality, well-structured technical documents. Adhering to its recommendations can significantly improve the clarity, consistency, and accessibility of technical writing, benefiting both experts and end-users.