The EN ISO 26335:2011 standard is an international standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the preparation of documents used in technical communication. It specifically focuses on the structure, content, and presentation of technical information.
Importance of EN ISO 26335:2011
EN ISO 26335:2011 plays a crucial role in ensuring effective communication between technical writers and their intended audience. By adhering to this standard, companies can produce clearer, more concise, and user-friendly technical documentation, improving overall quality and efficiency.
Key Guidelines of EN ISO 26335:2011
EN ISO 26335:2011 outlines several key guidelines that technical writers should follow while creating technical documents:
Information Organization: The standard emphasizes the importance of organizing information in a logical and coherent structure. This includes sections like introduction, body, conclusion, and references.
Consistency: EN ISO 26335:2011 promotes consistency in terminology, abbreviations, units, formatting, and other elements throughout the document to enhance understanding and avoid confusion.
Visual Aids: Clear and well-designed visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and illustrations, should be included to enhance comprehension and make complex concepts easier to understand.
Language and Style: The choice of language and writing style should be appropriate for the target audience, using plain language to ensure clarity and accessibility.
Revision Control: The standard emphasizes the importance of version control, ensuring that technical documents are regularly updated and reviewed to reflect any changes or improvements.
Benefits of EN ISO 26335:2011
Adhering to EN ISO 26335:2011 brings numerous advantages for both technical writers and their audience:
Improved User Experience: Clear, concise, and well-structured documentation makes it easier for users to understand and utilize products or services.
Reduced Errors and Misunderstandings: Following the standard reduces the chances of errors and misunderstandings caused by inconsistent, unclear, or poorly organized information.
Time and Cost Savings: Well-prepared documents improve efficiency, streamline processes, and ultimately save time and costs associated with customer support and rework.
Enhanced Professional Reputation: Adhering to international standards showcases professionalism and commitment to quality, contributing to a positive reputation for the organization and its technical writers.
Nina She