What is EN ISO 27338:2011?

EN ISO 27338:2011 is a professional technical standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the design, development, and evaluation of user documentation. This standard is applicable to various industries, including engineering, manufacturing, software development, and more. It focuses on ensuring that user documentation is effectively designed and written to meet the needs of end-users in terms of usability, comprehensibility, and accessibility.

The Importance of EN ISO 27338:2011

EN ISO 27338:2011 plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality, effectiveness, and safety of products and services. By following the guidelines set forth in this standard, organizations can ensure that their user documentation meets high standards, resulting in better user experiences and increased customer satisfaction. It emphasizes clear and concise communication, use of appropriate terminology, consistency, and accessibility, making it easier for users to understand and utilize complex information efficiently.

Key Requirements of EN ISO 27338:2011

EN ISO 27338:2011 outlines several essential requirements that user documentation must adhere to. These requirements include:

Usability: User documentation should be designed with the needs and capabilities of the target audience in mind. It should be easy to navigate, search, and understand.

Comprehensibility: The content should be clear, concise, and written in plain language. Technical jargon and complex terms should be avoided as much as possible.

Accessibility: The documentation should be accessible to individuals with disabilities or special needs. Considerations should be made for different formats, such as braille, audio, or large print.

Consistency: The use of consistent terminology, structure, and style throughout the documentation ensures clarity and reduces confusion for users.

Visual Design: The layout, formatting, and visual elements should enhance the readability and comprehension of the content. Graphics, diagrams, and illustrations can be used to supplement textual information.

Conclusion

EN ISO 27338:2011 is an important standard for developing high-quality user documentation. Following its guidelines can significantly improve the usability, comprehensibility, and accessibility of such documentation. By adhering to this standard, organizations can enhance their products and services, resulting in improved customer experiences and satisfaction.