What is EN ISO 12856:2019?

EN ISO 12856:2019 is a professional standard that provides guidelines and requirements for technical writing. It is designed to ensure consistency, clarity, and understanding in technical documents across various industries and sectors. This standard is widely recognized and used by professionals worldwide to enhance the quality of their technical writing.

Importance of Technical Writing

Technical writing plays a crucial role in effectively communicating complex information to readers who may have different levels of knowledge and backgrounds. Whether it's manuals, reports, or instructions, clear and concise technical writing allows end-users, engineers, and other stakeholders to understand and utilize information effectively. Poorly written technical documents can lead to confusion, errors, and safety hazards, highlighting the significance of adhering to standards such as EN ISO 12856:2019.

Key Requirements of EN ISO 12856:2019

EN ISO 12856:2019 outlines several essential requirements for writing professional technical articles:

1. Ease of Understanding: The document should be written in a way that is easy to comprehend for the intended audience. Clear and concise language, logical structure, and appropriate use of diagrams or illustrations should be employed.

2. Consistency: Consistency in terminology and style throughout the document ensures that readers are not confused by conflicting terms or varying writing approaches.

3. Presentation: The document should be well-organized with headings, subheadings, and numbered sections to help readers navigate through the content easily.

4. Accuracy: Technical information must be accurate, up-to-date, and supported by reliable sources or references. Inaccurate information can lead to costly mistakes or safety hazards.

Benefits of Adhering to EN ISO 12856:2019

Following the guidelines of EN ISO 12856:2019 offers several benefits:

1. Improved Clarity: By following the standard, technical writers can enhance the clarity and readability of their documents, ensuring that readers fully understand the information being conveyed.

2. Increased Consistency: Consistent terminology and writing style make technical documents more coherent and reduce confusion among readers.

3. Enhanced Professionalism: Adhering to international standards demonstrates professionalism and competence, thereby enhancing the credibility of the writer and the organization.

4. Greater Efficiency: Well-structured documents created in compliance with EN ISO 12856:2019 enable readers to find information quickly, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity.

In conclusion, EN ISO 12856:2019 provides valuable guidelines and requirements for technical writing. Adhering to this professional standard ensures clarity, consistency, and accuracy in technical documents. By following these guidelines, technical writers can effectively communicate complex information while improving readability and enhancing professionalism.