Conceptual information is something that product users need to understand: for instance a functional description or a safety notice. The standard then states that information for use consists of three information types: conceptual, instructional and reference. In the least-worst-cases, poor instructions can be a major cause of frustration in worst-case scenarios they can risk harm or loss, and lead to prosecution or liability claims against the product supplier or manufacturer. Confusing information and inadequate instructions need to be avoided. In the absence of human instruction, moreover, the information provided on how to use products safety, effectively and efficiently is something that people depend on. The standard starts from the philosophy that information for use is actually a part of the product that it supports. The instructions are for any user, technical or not. It might also be used by product enforcement agencies. Principles and general requirements.īS EN IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2020 is a comprehensive and generic guide for use by anyone who’s tasked with preparing user instructions, technical manuals, or any other documentation for any product, equipment or software. In 2020 it has been updated and published as BS EN IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2020 Preparation of information for use (instructions for use) of products. In recognition of that simple truth, ISO and IEC got together in 2012 to produce a comprehensive international standard on user instructions. Though of course writing clear instructions is easier said than done. Think for instance of a book or a feather duster.Įvery other product will likely benefit from some clear product information. Only the world’s simplest, most hazard-free and most intuitive products can be used efficiently, effectively and safely without some sort of guidance or instruction from the manufacturer. The standard has now been updated, and this blog post outlines why and what’s new. In 2012, ISO and IEC got together to provide common minimum requirements for the preparation, structuring, content and presentation of product instructions.
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