What is BS EN 16708:2020?

BS EN 16708:2020 is a technical standard that specifies the requirements for written information accompanying products sold online. It was introduced by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) with the aim of enhancing the consumer's understanding of the products they purchase online.

Why was BS EN 16708:2020 introduced?

With the growing popularity of e-commerce, consumers increasingly rely on written product information provided by sellers to make informed purchasing decisions. However, it has been observed that the quality and clarity of this information can vary significantly across different platforms and vendors. BS EN 16708:2020 was developed to address this gap and ensure consistent, accurate, and easy-to-understand product descriptions, specifications, and instructions across all online sales channels.

Key requirements of BS EN 16708:2020

The standard outlines several key requirements that sellers must meet when providing written product information online:

Clarity and readability: The information should be presented in a clear and easily understandable manner.

Accuracy: The information should accurately describe the product's features, specifications, and intended use.

Completeness: The information should cover all relevant aspects of the product, including any potential risks or limitations.

Language and formatting: The information should be provided in the language(s) understood by the target audience and follow a standardized format for consistency.

Product images and visual aids: High-quality product images and visual aids should be provided to enhance understanding and provide additional context.

Benefits of complying with BS EN 16708:2020

Complying with BS EN 16708:2020 offers several benefits to both sellers and consumers:

Improved customer experience: By providing clear, accurate, and complete product information, sellers can enhance the overall experience for their customers, leading to increased trust and satisfaction.

Reduced returns and complaints: Clarity in product information helps customers make informed purchasing decisions, reducing the likelihood of returns or complaints due to misunderstandings or dissatisfaction.

Enhanced market reputation: Sellers who consistently provide high-quality, compliant product information can build a strong reputation for reliability and professionalism in the online marketplace.

Legal compliance: Compliance with BS EN 16708:2020 ensures that sellers meet the legal requirements set forth by relevant regulatory bodies, minimizing the risk of penalties or legal consequences.

In conclusion, BS EN 16708:2020 serves as a vital standard for ensuring clear, accurate, and easy-to-understand written product information in the online marketplace. By complying with this standard, sellers can improve customer satisfaction, reduce returns and complaints, and establish a positive market reputation. Conversely, consumers can benefit from reliable and informative descriptions, specifications, and instructions when making online purchases.