What is ISO 19973:2014

ISO 19973:2014 is a well-known standard in the field of professional technical writing. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of this standard and its significance in technical communication.

Understanding ISO 19973:2014

ISO 19973:2014, titled "Professional technical documentation -- Public Information Symbols," is an international standard that provides guidelines for the use of public information symbols in technical communication. The purpose of this standard is to ensure clear and consistent communication across different cultures, languages, and industries.

Public information symbols play a vital role in conveying important messages without language barriers. They are commonly used on signs, labels, manuals, and other forms of technical documentation to convey safety warnings, instructions, and information to users.

Key Features of ISO 19973:2014

ISO 19973:2014 lays out various essential features and requirements for public information symbols. These features include:

Universal understanding: Symbols should be easily understood by people from different cultural backgrounds and languages.

Clear representation: Symbols should present information clearly and accurately, leaving no room for misinterpretation.

Consistency: Symbols should follow consistent design principles to promote familiarity and ease of recognition.

Adaptability: Symbols should be adaptable to different media, such as print, digital, or signage.

Compliance: Symbols should comply with relevant national and international standards to ensure their effectiveness and reliability.

Benefits of Using ISO 19973:2014

The adoption of ISO 19973:2014 brings several benefits to technical writers, designers, and users:

Improved clarity: The use of standardized symbols enhances the clarity and understanding of technical documentation, reducing the risk of miscommunication.

Enhanced safety: Symbols play a critical role in conveying safety-related information, helping users understand potential risks and take appropriate precautions.

Cost and time savings: By using universally recognized symbols, companies can save time and resources that would otherwise be spent on translating text-based instructions into multiple languages.

Global reach: ISO 19973:2014 facilitates global communication by enabling information exchange without language barriers, thus expanding the reach of products and services.

Conclusion

ISO 19973:2014 is a significant standard that improves technical communication through the effective use of public information symbols. By following this standard, technical writers can ensure clear and consistent messaging, enhance user understanding, and promote global communication. Embracing ISO 19973:2014 not only benefits businesses but also contributes to a safer and more connected world.