ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 18624:2018 is a technical standard that aims to provide guidelines and best practices for writing easy-to-understand technical articles, documents, and other forms of communication. This standard was developed to bridge the gap between experts and non-experts by ensuring that technical information is presented in a clear and concise manner.
Why is it important?
Technical articles are often filled with complex jargon and technical terms that can be difficult for non-experts to understand. This can lead to misinterpretation, confusion, and even safety hazards. ISO 18624:2018 provides a set of guidelines that help writers simplify their language and structure their content in a way that is accessible to a wider audience.
Key principles of ISO 18624:2018
ISO 18624:2018 emphasizes several key principles that can greatly improve the readability and comprehensibility of technical articles. These principles include:
Clarity: Technical articles should use clear and simple language, avoiding jargon as much as possible. Complex concepts should be explained in a manner that is easy for non-experts to grasp.
Organization: The document should be structured in a logical and coherent manner, with headings, subheadings, and bullet points used to clearly delineate different sections and topics.
Visual aids: Effective use of visuals, such as diagrams, charts, and illustrations, can greatly enhance understanding and retention of information.
Consistency: Consistent terminology and formatting should be used throughout the document to minimize confusion and ensure clarity.
Benefits of adhering to ISO 18624:2018
By following the guidelines set out in ISO 18624:2018, writers can achieve a number of benefits:
Improved comprehension: By simplifying complex information, non-experts will be better able to understand and apply the knowledge presented in technical articles.
Enhanced user experience: Easy-to-understand technical articles improve user experience, increasing engagement and satisfaction with the content.
Reduced risks: Misinterpretation or misunderstanding of technical information can lead to errors or accidents. Adhering to ISO 18624:2018 can reduce these risks by ensuring clear and concise communication.
Increased accessibility: Technical articles that are easy to understand allow for a wider audience to benefit from the information, including individuals with different levels of expertise or those with language barriers.
In conclusion, ISO 18624:2018 provides valuable guidelines for writing technical articles that are easy to understand. By simplifying language, organizing content effectively, and using visual aids, writers can improve comprehension, enhance user experience, and reduce risks associated with miscommunication. Adhering to this standard not only benefits non-experts but also broadens the accessibility and impact of technical information.
Nina She