What is ISO 18661-3:2017?

ISO 18661-3:2017 is a technical standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that provides guidelines and requirements for the quality management of articles in organizations involved in the writing profession. This standard focuses specifically on what constitutes professional technical writing and how to ensure that it meets the highest industry standards.

Key Features of ISO 18661-3:2017

ISO 18661-3:2017 outlines several key features that are crucial for professional technical writing:

Accuracy and Clarity: The standard emphasizes the need for clear and accurate communication of technical information, avoiding ambiguity or confusion. It encourages writers to use precise language, structured formats, and concise explanations.

Completeness and Relevance: Professional technical writing must provide all essential information required by the intended audience. It should also be relevant to their needs, offering practical solutions and guidance.

Consistency and Style: Consistency in terminology, grammar, and formatting is important for maintaining clarity and ensuring a professional image. ISO 18661-3:2017 encourages adherence to established style guides and consistency within a document or across multiple documents.

Usability and Accessibility: The standard emphasizes the importance of creating documents that are easily understandable and accessible to the target audience. It includes recommendations for structuring content, using headings, subheadings, and bullet points where appropriate.

Benefits of Implementing ISO 18661-3:2017

Implementing ISO 18661-3:2017 can bring various benefits to organizations involved in the writing profession:

Improved Quality: Following the guidelines of the standard ensures that the quality of technical articles meets recognized industry standards, enhancing the credibility and reputation of the organization.

Increased Efficiency: ISO 18661-3:2017 provides a structured approach to writing, making the process more efficient and reducing the time required for revisions and edits.

Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: By adhering to professional technical writing standards, organizations can deliver clear and concise information that meets the needs of their target audience, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.

Improved Collaboration: The standard promotes consistency and clarity, facilitating collaboration among writers and editors within an organization. It streamlines communication and reduces misunderstandings.

Conclusion

ISO 18661-3:2017 plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining high standards in professional technical writing. By following its guidelines, organizations can ensure that their written materials are accurate, clear, complete, and accessible to their intended audience. Implementing this standard not only improves the quality of technical articles but also enhances efficiency, customer satisfaction, and collaboration within the organization.