What is ISO 20417:2016?

ISO 20417:2016 is an international standard that provides guidelines and requirements for writing thorough technical articles. This standard ensures that technical articles are clear, concise, and easily understood by readers. Whether you are a technical writer or someone who frequently reads technical articles, understanding and adhering to ISO 20417:2016 can greatly improve the effectiveness of your writing and enhance the overall quality of technical content.

Key Components of ISO 20417:2016

The standard covers various aspects of technical writing, including structure, terminology, visual aids, and language usage. By following the guidelines laid out in ISO 20417:2016, technical writers can create well-organized and coherent articles, enabling readers to extract necessary information efficiently.

Structure:

ISO 20417:2016 emphasizes the importance of a logical structure in technical articles. It suggests beginning with an informative title that clearly indicates the article's topic. The introduction should provide relevant background information, followed by a clearly defined objective. The main body should be divided into sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of the subject matter. The conclusion must summarize the key points and provide recommendations or further resources for readers.

Terminology:

Using accurate and consistent terminology is vital. ISO 20417:2016 recommends maintaining a glossary of technical terms and ensuring their correct usage throughout the article. It also suggests avoiding jargon and excessive abbreviations that may confuse readers. Additionally, providing definitions and explanations for complex terms can help readers comprehend the content more effectively.

Visual Aids:

Visual aids play a crucial role in enhancing the clarity and comprehensibility of technical articles. ISO 20417:2016 advises using appropriate charts, graphs, tables, and diagrams to present data or explain concepts visually. These visuals should be referenced within the text and adequately explained so that readers can grasp their significance without any ambiguity.

Language Usage:

The language used in technical articles should be precise, concise, and free from ambiguity. ISO 20417:2016 suggests avoiding excessive use of passive voice and complex sentence structures. Instead, writers should employ simple and direct language while maintaining a professional tone. Using active verbs, well-structured sentences, and consistent grammatical rules improves the readability of technical content.

Benefits of Following ISO 20417:2016

Adhering to ISO 20417:2016 offers numerous benefits for both writers and readers of technical articles. Firstly, it ensures that technical content is organized, clear, and easy to understand, eliminating confusion and misinterpretation. Secondly, following this standard enhances the overall quality and professionalism of technical writing, promoting effective knowledge transfer. Lastly, ISO 20417:2016 facilitates international communication by providing guidelines that transcend language barriers and cultural differences.

In conclusion, ISO 20417:2016 sets forth guidelines and requirements for creating thorough technical articles. By following this standard, technical writers can produce high-quality content that effectively communicates complex information. Moreover, adhering to ISO 20417:2016 benefits readers by making technical content clearer and more accessible. This international standard serves as a valuable tool for anyone involved in the creation or consumption of technical articles.