What is ISO 20560-2016?

ISO 20560-2016 is a standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It provides guidelines and requirements for creating technical documentation for products and systems. The standard aims to ensure consistency, clarity, and usability of technical information, making it easier for users to understand and use the products or systems.

Benefits of ISO 20560-2016

Implementing ISO 20560-2016 brings several benefits to organizations. Firstly, it enhances customer satisfaction by improving the quality and usability of technical documentation. Clear and well-structured information helps users to operate products safely and effectively, reducing the risk of accidents or errors.

Secondly, compliance with ISO 20560-2016 can enhance marketability and competitiveness. When organizations demonstrate that they meet international standards for technical documentation, it can give them a competitive edge, as customers tend to prefer products with clear and user-friendly documentation.

Key Requirements of ISO 20560-2016

ISO 20560-2016 outlines various requirements that technical documentation should meet. One key requirement is the use of plain language and avoidance of technical jargon. The information provided should be easily understandable to the target audience, including those with limited technical knowledge.

The standard also emphasizes the importance of consistent structure and format. This makes it easier for users to navigate through the documentation, locate specific information, and understand the relationships between different sections or topics.

Implementing ISO 20560-2016

To implement ISO 20560-2016, organizations should first assess their existing technical documentation practices and identify areas for improvement. This may include reviewing writing styles, document structures, and user feedback.

Next, organizations should develop a plan to align their documentation practices with the requirements of ISO 20560-2016. This may involve training staff members on plain language writing techniques, revising document templates and formats, and establishing quality control processes to ensure compliance.