What is EN ISO 12870:2011:

Introduction

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published several standards that provide guidelines and requirements for various industries. One such standard is EN ISO 12870:2011, which focuses on specific requirements for writing technical documentation. This article will delve into what the standard entails and its significance in ensuring high-quality technical writing.

Understanding EN ISO 12870:2011

EN ISO 12870:2011 lays out the principles and guidelines for creating technical documents that are clear, concise, and easily understood by their intended audience. It emphasizes the importance of organizing information effectively, using appropriate language and terminology, and providing comprehensive instructions or explanations when necessary.

This standard provides recommendations on technical document structure, including headings, numbering systems, and referencing styles. It also addresses aspects such as graphical symbols, tables, and indexes. By following these guidelines, technical writers can create documents that are user-friendly and facilitate efficient information retrieval.

Benefits of EN ISO 12870:2011

Adhering to EN ISO 12870:2011 brings numerous benefits to both the creators and users of technical documentation. Firstly, it enhances consistency across different documents within an organization or industry, promoting better communication and understanding. Standardizing technical writing practices helps to reduce errors and confusion, leading to increased productivity and improved overall quality.

Furthermore, complying with this standard ensures that technical documents meet international best practices, making them more accessible to a global audience. Whether the document is a user manual, installation guide, or maintenance procedure, the standardized approach simplifies localization and translation efforts, eliminating potential misinterpretations or misunderstandings.

Implementing EN ISO 12870:2011

To implement EN ISO 12870:2011 effectively, organizations need to invest in training and development opportunities for their technical writers. Providing them with an understanding of the standard's requirements, as well as the tools and techniques necessary for compliance, is crucial. It is also important to establish a streamlined review process to ensure that all technical documents align with the specified guidelines.

In addition, adopting suitable software solutions can greatly enhance efficiency and maintain consistency when creating technical documentation. Specialized authoring tools or content management systems designed for technical writing enable writers to structure information, maintain style and terminology consistency, and manage version control effectively.

Conclusion

EN ISO 12870:2011 plays a significant role in establishing a framework for high-quality technical writing. By following its guidelines, organizations can create technical documentation that is user-friendly, consistent, and aligned with international best practices. Adhering to this standard not only enhances communication within organizations but also increases the accessibility and understandability of technical information globally. It is a valuable tool for ensuring that technical documentation meets the needs of diverse audiences while maintaining clarity and coherence.