ISO 18047:2015 is an international standard that defines the requirements for technical documentation in the field of technology products. It provides guidelines for creating comprehensive and effective technical articles, including specifications, procedures, and user manuals.
The Purpose of ISO 18047:2015
The primary purpose of ISO 18047:2015 is to ensure that technical documentation is clear, accurate, and consistent, enabling users to understand and use the product effectively. This standard aims to improve the quality and usability of technical articles by establishing a set of best practices and guidelines for writers and editors.
Key Elements of ISO 18047:2015
ISO 18047:2015 covers several essential elements in technical article writing. These include:
Coverage of all relevant information: The standard emphasizes the need to include all necessary details about the product, such as specifications, features, and usage instructions. This ensures that users have access to complete and accurate information.
Structured format: ISO 18047:2015 recommends a logical and consistent structure for technical articles. It suggests using headings, subheadings, and numbered or bulleted lists to organize the content, making it easier for users to navigate and find the information they need.
Plain language: The standard encourages the use of plain and simple language in technical articles. Complex technical terms should be explained, acronyms defined, and jargon minimized to ensure that non-expert users can understand the content easily.
Consistency and accuracy: ISO 18047:2015 stresses the importance of maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout the documentation. It recommends using consistent terminology, avoiding ambiguous statements, and verifying all information to ensure its correctness.
User-oriented approach: The standard emphasizes putting the needs of the users first. Technical articles should be written with the target audience in mind, taking into account their knowledge level, prior experience, and potential questions or difficulties they may encounter while using the product.
Benefits of Complying with ISO 18047:2015
Adhering to ISO 18047:2015 can benefit both manufacturers and end-users. For manufacturers, following this standard helps in creating high-quality technical documentation that enhances the user experience and reduces support requests. Well-written and easily understandable articles improve customer satisfaction and perception of the brand.
For end-users, compliant technical documentation provides clear instructions on how to use a product effectively and troubleshoot common issues. This improves user confidence, reduces errors during product use, and ultimately leads to a better overall user experience.
In summary, ISO 18047:2015 is an important standard for ensuring the quality and usability of technical documentation. By providing guidelines for comprehensive and user-friendly articles, it helps manufacturers create products that are easier to understand and use, leading to improved user satisfaction.