What is EN 47064?

EN 47064, also known as ISO/IEC 19506, is a technical specification that provides guidelines and recommendations for the development and maintenance of software documentation. It focuses on the structure, content, and format of technical documents to ensure consistency, clarity, and usability.

Benefits of EN 47064

Implementing EN 47064 in software documentation offers several advantages. Firstly, it enhances the overall quality of documentation by providing precise guidelines for content organization and presentation. This helps users understand and navigate through the material more effectively.

Moreover, complying with EN 47064 improves consistency across various software documentation elements, such as user manuals, installation guides, and release notes. This ensures a cohesive user experience and reduces confusion.

In addition, following EN 47064 makes localization and translation processes easier. The standardized structure and terminology make it simpler to adapt the documentation to different languages and cultures, facilitating international distribution.

Key Principles of EN 47064

EN 47064 emphasizes several key principles that contribute to effective software documentation. Firstly, it stresses the importance of user-centric content. Documentation should be tailored to the needs, skills, and knowledge of the target audience. Clear explanations and examples should be provided to aid understanding.

Secondly, EN 47064 encourages the use of consistent terminology throughout the documentation. This minimizes ambiguity and confusion. Standardized vocabulary and definitions enhance comprehension and facilitate efficient searches within the document.

Furthermore, the standard highlights the significance of visual aids, such as illustrations, diagrams, and screenshots. These visual elements can significantly enhance user comprehension and assist in troubleshooting or problem-solving scenarios.

Lastly, EN 47064 suggests organizing the content in a logical and hierarchical manner, employing headings, subheadings, and numbering. This facilitates easy navigation and retrieval of information, allowing users to quickly locate the desired details.

Conclusion

EN 47064 is an essential document for software developers as it provides guidelines for creating high-quality and user-friendly technical documentation. By adhering to its principles, software companies can improve the usability and accessibility of their products, leading to enhanced user satisfaction and reduced support costs.

Implementing EN 47064 not only benefits end-users but also streamlines translation processes and contributes to overall consistency in software documentation. Utilizing this standard ensures that technical information is effectively communicated, regardless of language or cultural barriers.