ISO/FDIS 24183

Technical communication — Vocabulary

Communication technique — Vocabulaire

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• ICS: 01.040.01 - Generalities. Terminology. Standardization. Documentation (Vocabularies)
• ICS: 01.110 - Technical product documentation
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 37 - Language and terminology
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 37/WG 10 - Technical communication
• Current Stage: 5020 - FDIS ballot initiated: 2 months. Proof sent to secretariat
• Start Date: 14-Sep-2023
• Completion Date: 14-Sep-2023

Standards Content (Sample)

© ISO 2023 – All rights reserved
ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Date: 2023-07-10
ISO/TC 37/WG 10
Secretariat: SAC
Date: 2023-08-31
Technical communication — Vocabulary
Communication technique — Vocabulaire

FDIS stage

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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
© ISO 2023
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this
publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
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Published in Switzerland.
ii © ISO 2023 – All rights reserved
ii © ISO 2023 – All rights reserved

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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Contents
Foreword . vi
Introduction . vii
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
3.1 Terms relating to core concepts . 1
3.2 Terms relating to users. 4
3.3 Terms related to product and information life cycles . 4
3.4 Terms relating to information for use . 6
3.5 Terms relating to information creators . 7
3.6 Terms relating to the information development process . 8
3.6.1 Research and analysis . 8
3.6.2 Content-related processes . 9
3.6.3 Translation and localization . 10
3.6.4 Risk management processes . 11
3.6.5 Principles of information quality . 11
3.6.6 Tools and resources . 13
3.7 Terms relating to information product elements . 14
3.7.1 General . 14
3.7.2 Safety-related information . 14
3.7.3 Lists and tables . 15
3.7.4 Directories . 15
3.7.5 Pointers . 16
3.7.6 Status indicators . 16
3.8 Terms relating to information products . 17
3.8.1 General . 17
3.8.2 Information products according to life cycle phases . 17
3.8.3 Catalogues . 20
3.8.4 Diagrams . 20
3.9 Information delivery . 20
Annex A (informative) Concept models . 22
A.1 General . 22
A.2 Concept model on technical communication. 22
A.3 Concept model on communication media . 23
Bibliography . 26

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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)

Foreword iv
Introduction v
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 1
3.1 Core concepts 1
3.2 Users 3
3.3 Product and information life cycles 4
3.4 Information for use 6
3.5 Information creators 7
3.6 Information development process 8
3.6.1 Research and analysis 8
3.6.2 Content-related processes 8
3.6.3 Translation and localization 9
3.6.4 Risk management processes 10
3.6.5 Principles of information quality 11
3.6.6 Tools and resources 12
3.7 Information product elements 13
3.7.1 General 13
3.7.2 Safety-related information 13
3.7.3 Lists and tables 14
3.7.4 Directories 15
3.7.5 Pointers 15
3.7.6 Status indicators 16
3.8 Information products 16
3.8.1 General 16
3.8.2 Information products according to life cycle phases 17
3.8.3 Catalogues 19
3.8.4 Diagrams 19
3.9 Information delivery 19
Annex A (informative) Concept models 21
A.1 General 21
A.2 Concept model on technical communication 21
A.3 Concept model on communication media 22
Bibliography 23
Alphabetical index 25
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)


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© ISO 2023 – All rights reserved v

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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO
collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documentsdocument should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance
with the editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see
www.iso.org/directives).www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawnISO draws attention to the possibility that some of the elementsimplementation of this
document may beinvolve the subjectuse of (a) patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence,
validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights. in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of
this document, ISO had not received notice of (a) patent(s) which may be required to implement this
document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent the latest information,
which may be obtained from the patent database available at www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held
responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any patent rights identified during the
development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or on the ISO list of patent declarations
received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO’sISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 37, Language and terminology.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at
www.iso.org/members.html.www.iso.org/members.html.
vi © ISO 2023 – All rights reserved
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Introduction
Suppliers of goods and services provide information for the use of their products, such as instructions,
manuals, service information, information for assembly or troubleshooting information. Technical
communication is the process of defining, creating and delivering these information products for the safe,
effective and efficient use of supported products.
A standardized common terminology as provided in this document helps to prevent misunderstandings
and disputes between acquirers and suppliers of information products as well as between manufacturers
and customers. A standardized terminology for technical communication will support both acquirers and
suppliers of information products. Organizations that provide information products can formulate more
precise requirements, and providers can deliver information products according to specifications.
A standardized common terminology also helps to foster mutual understanding, both within the technical
communication community and in contact with other relevant communities such as the language services
industry. Furthermore, this document can be used as a basis for researching and teaching technical
communication in various settings.
Annex AAnnex A contains two concept models that illustrate the interrelations between some key
concepts in technical communication.
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FINAL DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)

Technical communication — Vocabulary
1 Scope
This document defines terms for the theory and application of technical communication. It prepares the
terminological background for all other standards in the field of technical communication by providing
precise definitions and standardized terms for basic concepts in this domain.
This document is applicable to persons creating information products in the field of technical
communication or using these information products professionally.
2 Normative references
There are no normative references in this document.
3 Terms and definitions
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— — ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obphttps://www.iso.org/obp
— — IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1 CoreTerms relating to core concepts
3.1.1
technical communication
DEPRECATED: technical writing
process of defining and creating information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2) to be delivered as information products
(3.1.4)(3.1.4) for the safe, effective and efficient use of a supported product (3.1.5)(3.1.5) throughout its
life cycle
Note 1 to entry: Technical communication includes all modes, such as text (3.7.1.2),(3.7.1.2), image, audio
(3.7.1.3)(3.7.1.3) and all media, e.g. printed manuals, tutorial videos, online help (3.8.1.2).(3.8.1.2).
Note 2 to entry: The term “technical writing” should not be used because it no longer reflects the variety of modes
and media in current use.
Note 3 to entry: In some contexts, the term “technical communication” can refer to more general communicative
acts concerning products, such as e-mail communication between engineers.
3.1.2
information for use
information identified and collected during the information development process
3.1.3
product
result of an action or process
Note 1 to entry: Products can be physical products, technical systems, software and services.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.1.4
information product
product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) consisting of information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2) that is delivered for the safe, effective
and efficient use of a supported product (3.1.5)(3.1.5)
Note 1 to entry: Information products can also be generated during runtime of a content delivery system.
Note 2 to entry: Information products can contain conceptual information (3.4.2),(3.4.2), instructional information
(3.4.3)(3.4.3) or reference information (3.4.4).(3.4.4).
Note 3 to entry: Information products come in various forms, such as manuals (3.8.1.1)(3.8.1.1) or online help
(3.8.1.2).(3.8.1.2).
3.1.5
supported product
product (3.1.3)
product (3.1.3) to which an information product (3.1.4)(3.1.4) relates
EXAMPLE
— — industrial products (e.g. machinery, components, devices, equipment);
— — consumer products (e.g. household appliances, audio-visual devices, communication devices, do-it-yourself
products);
— — medical devices, equipment and systems;
— — complex systems of systems (e.g. industrial plants, refineries, production sites, data centres);
— — means of transport (e.g. cars, trucks, ships, airplanes);
— — application software (e.g. office software, web applications);
— — software for operation and automatic control of systems;
— — technical services.
Note 1 to entry: An information product (3.1.4)(3.1.4) is an essential component of a supported product (3.1.5).
3.1.6
content
information in any form
EXAMPLE Text (3.7.1.2),(3.7.1.2), audio (3.7.1.3),(3.7.1.3), video.
1
[SOURCE: ISO 20539:— , 3.1.2]
3.1.7
technical documentation
set of information products (3.1.4)(3.1.4) provided by the supplier of a supported product (3.1.5)(3.1.5)

1
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.1.8
technical communicator
DEPRECATED: technical writer
person who develops information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: The role of a technical communicator can include researching product information, defining target
audience information needs, ensuring that legal and normative requirements are met, authoring texts
(3.7.1.2),(3.7.1.2), creating safety instructions and coordinating translations (3.6.3.1).(3.6.3.1).
Note 2 to entry: The term “technical writer” should not be used because it no longer reflects the variety of modes
and media in current use.
3.1.9
information structure
organization of information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2) in order to optimiseoptimize presentation and
understanding
3.1.10
structuring method
content organization according to semantic or functional criteria in order to ensure consistency
(3.6.5.1.6)(3.6.5.1.6) and interchangeability of information
3.1.11
style guide
set of specifications designed to ensure information quality (3.6.5.1)(3.6.5.1) and information product
quality (3.6.5.2)(3.6.5.2)
Note 1 to entry: Style guides should take into account information quality principles such as completeness
(3.6.5.1.4)(3.6.5.1.4) and consistency (3.6.5.1.6)(3.6.5.1.6) as well as information product quality criteria such as
usability (3.6.5.2.2)(3.6.5.2.2) and readability (3.6.5.5.4).(3.6.5.2.4).
3.1.12
single source publishing
content management approach which allows the same source content (3.1.6)(3.1.6) to be delivered
across different forms of media and more than once
3.1.13
terminology
set of designations and concepts belonging to one domain or subject
[SOURCE: ISO 1087:2019, 3.1.11]
3.1.14
terminology work
work concerned with the systematic collection, description, processing and presentation of concepts
and their designations
[SOURCE: ISO 1087:2019, 3.5.1, modified — Admittedadmitted term “terminology management” and
Notes 1 and 2 deletedto entry have been removed.]
3.1.15
translatability
ease of rendering content (3.1.6)(3.1.6) from one language or culture to another
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.2 Users
3.2 Terms relating to users
3.2.1
user
person who interacts with a supported product (3.1.5)(3.1.5)
Note 1 to entry: Users can be part of a specific target audience (3.2.2).(3.2.2).
Note 2 to entry: “User” can include persons who install, operate, service, maintain or dispose of the product.
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.47, modified — “a supported product” has been replaced by “the
product” in the definition. A new Note 1 to entry has been added. FormerThe former Note 1 to entry has
been renumbered as Note 2 to entry.]
3.2.2
target audience
audience
audience
group of persons for whom an information product (3.1.4)(3.1.4) is intended
Note 1 to entry: A target audience can consist of specific users (3.2.1)(3.2.1) or other persons.
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.42, modified — “the information product” has been replaced by
“information for use” and “by the supplier” has been deleted in the definition. AdmittedThe admitted term
“audience” and Note 1 to entry have been added.]
3.2.3
skilled person
person with relevant technical education, training and/or experience
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.36, modified — “person” has been replaced by “individual”,
“and/or” has been replaced by “or” and “to enable perceiving risks and avoiding hazards occurring during
use of a product” has been deleted in the definition.]
3.3 ProductTerms related to product and information life cycles
3.3.1
put into service, verb
prepare a system for its intended use (3.6.4.1)(3.6.4.1)
3.3.2
put out of service, ,verb
change a system from an operational status to a non-operational status
3.3.3
product life cycle
period of time from the first idea to the ultimate disposal (3.3.4.10)(3.3.4.10) or recycling
(3.3.4.11)(3.3.4.11) of a product (3.1.3)(3.1.3)
Note 1 to entry: The product life cycle is divided into defined periods called phases in which activities that belong
together are grouped, e.g. product concept, design, production. The beginning and end of phases require definite
decisions.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
[SOURCE: ISO 15226:1999, 3.7, modified — “or recycling” has been added in the definition,. “(e.g.
releases)” has been deleted.]
3.3.4
product life cycle phase
stage in the product life cycle (3.3.3)(3.3.3)
EXAMPLE Design, development, storage (3.3.4.9),(3.3.4.9), transport, installation (3.3.4.1),(3.3.4.1),
commissioning (3.3.4.2),(3.3.4.2), operation (3.3.4.4),(3.3.4.4), troubleshooting, maintenance (3.3.4.5),(3.3.4.5),
repair (3.3.4.6),(3.3.4.6), decommissioning (3.3.4.9),(3.3.4.9), dismounting, disposal (3.3.4.10).(3.3.4.10).
3.3.4.1
installation
product life cycle phase (3.3.4)(3.3.4) in which a product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) is prepared such that it fulfils its
intended use (3.6.4.1)(3.6.4.1)
3.3.4.2
commissioning
procedures prior, or related, to the handing over of a physical product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) ready to be placed
into service
Note 1 to entry: Commissioning can include final acceptance testing, the handing over of relevant documentation
for the supported product (3.1.5)(3.1.5) or instructing personnel.
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.2, modified — “physical” added before “product” in the definition.]
3.3.4.3
setup
process by which a system or component is prepared for operation (3.3.4.4)(3.3.4.4)
3.3.4.4
operation
product life cycle phase (3.3.4)(3.3.4) comprising all technical, administrative and managerial actions,
other than maintenance actions, that result in the system functioning according to its intended use
(3.6.4.1)(3.6.4.1)
3.3.4.5
maintenance
set of actions intended to retain a product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) in, or restore it to, a useful and safe condition, in
which it can perform the intended use (3.6.4.1)(3.6.4.1)
3.3.4.6
repair
corrective maintenance (3.3.4.5)(3.3.4.5) of defective or damaged parts or functions of a product
(3.1.3)(3.1.3)
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.31]
3.3.4.7
emergency operation
set of actions and functions intended to end or avert an emergency situation
[SOURCE: ISO 12100:2010, 3.39, modified — “set of”"all" has been replaced “all”.]by "set of" at the
beginning of the definition.]
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.3.4.7.1
emergency stop
emergency operation (3.3.4.7)(3.3.4.7) by means of a single human action
3.3.4.8
storage
life cycle phase of a physical product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) being kept available in an adequate environment
3.3.4.9
decommissioning
life cycle phase of a physical product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) being put out of service (3.3.2)(3.3.2) permanently
3.3.4.10
disposal
life cycle phase of a physical product (3.1.3)(3.1.3) describing its elimination or repurposing
3.3.4.11
recycling
life cycle phase involving the repurposing of a material or component which has previously been
processed for inclusion in a product (3.1.3)(3.1.3)
[SOURCE: ISO 10209:2022, 3.13.5, modified — “action of reprocessing” has been replaced by “life cycle
phase involving the repurposing” replaced “action of reprocessing”.]at the beginning of the definition.]
3.4 InformationTerms relating to information for use
3.4.1
information type
class of information determined according to structural principles
3.4.2
conceptual information
information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2) which explains and describes the relevant operating principles of the
supported product (3.1.5)(3.1.5)
EXAMPLE Functional description (3.4.2.1).(3.4.2.1).
Note 1 to entry: In analysing information for use, it is possible to differentiate between conceptual information,
instructional information (3.4.3)(3.4.3) and reference information (3.4.4).(3.4.4).
3.4.2.1
functional description
overall description that explains how each part of a product is expected to operate, interact and be
interacted with
[SOURCE: ISO 16484-1:2010, 3.10, modified — “a product” replaced “"the system/plant”," has been
replaced by "a product" and Note 1 to entry deletedhas been removed.]
3.4.3
instructional information
information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2) which states procedures and task-oriented steps to be followed or
considered
EXAMPLE Step-by-step instructions.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.4.4
reference information
information for use (3.1.2)(3.1.2) which comprises additional details that need to be retrieved on occasion
EXAMPLE Troubleshooting information (3.8.2.3.5),(3.8.2.3.5), commands, codes.
3.4.5
document type
class of a document defined with respect to its specified purpose, function and form of presentation
3.5 InformationTerms relating to information creators
3.5.1
terminology manager
expert responsible for the planning, organization and coordination of all terminological activities in the
information development process
3.5.2
terminologist
expert who performs terminology work (3.1.14)(3.1.14) as a main function of a professional activity
[SOURCE: ISO 12616-1:2021, 3.30]
3.5.3
terminology worker
person whose role is to perform terminology work (3.1.14)(3.1.14) as an ancillary function of other
professional activities
[SOURCE: ISO 12616-1:2021, 3.29]
3.5.4
information architect
person who collects target audience requirements and develops an information strategy
Note 1 to entry: Other terms that are used in some contexts are “content strategist”, “indexer” or “taxonomy
architect”, who carry out similar tasks.
3.5.5
information developer
person responsible for designing, creating, collecting or implementing a range of information product
(3.1.4)(3.1.4) aspects, such as text (3.7.1.2),(3.7.1.2), video, photos or other media
Note 1 to entry: Information product aspects include modes, such as text (3.7.1.2),(3.7.1.2), image, audio
(3.7.1.3),(3.7.1.3) and media, for example printed manuals, tutorial videos, online help (3.8.1.2).(3.8.1.2).
3.5.6
expert reviewer
subject matter expert or information product design expert responsible for examination of an information
product (3.1.4)(3.1.4) according to defined criteria
3.5.7
translator
person who renders source language content into target language content in written or other recorded
form
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
2
[SOURCE: ISO 20539:— , 3.1.12, modified — “"translates" has been replaced with "renders source
language content into target language content in written or other recorded form” replaced “translate”.]"
at the beginning of the definition.]
3.6 InformationTerms relating to the information development process
3.6.1 Research and analysis
3.6.1.1
product design analysis
process of evaluating product requirements and specifications for the creation of an information product
(3.1.4)(3.1.4)
3.6.1.2
information research
set of actions that are necessary to find information on a specific subject
3.6.1.3
information retrieval
IR
IR
set of techniques and processes used to identify resources relevant to an information need, from a
collection or network of information resources
[SOURCE: ISO 25964-1:2011, 2.28, modified — “set of”"all the" has been replaced “all the”, “resources”by
"set of" at the beginning of the definition, and "documents" is replaced “documents”.]by "resources".]
3.6.1.4
use case
description of behavioural requirements of a system and its interaction with a user (3.2.1)(3.2.1)
[SOURCE: ISO/IEC/IEEE 26515:2018, 3.15, modified — Note 1 to entry deletedhas been removed.]
3.6.1.5
persona
model of a fictitious user (3.2.1)(3.2.1) with defined properties, based on information research
(3.6.1.2)(3.6.1.2)
3.6.1.6.1.6
target audience analysis
analysis and classification of the intended types of target audiences (3.2.2)(3.2.2) of an information
product (3.1.4)(3.1.4)
3.6.1.7
task analysis
analysis on how a task is accomplished, including a description of both manual and mental activities
performed by intended user(s) (3.2.1)(3.2.1)

2
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
...

FINAL
INTERNATIONAL ISO/FDIS
DRAFT
STANDARD 24183
ISO/TC 37
Technical communication —
Secretariat: SAC
Vocabulary
Voting begins on:
2023-09-14
Communication technique — Vocabulaire
Voting terminates on:
2023-11-09
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO
SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION
OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH
THEY ARE AWARE AND TO PROVIDE SUPPOR TING
DOCUMENTATION.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
Reference number
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNO-
ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
LOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES,
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON
OCCASION HAVE TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE
LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL TO BECOME STAN-
DARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
NATIONAL REGULATIONS. © ISO 2023

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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
FINAL
INTERNATIONAL ISO/FDIS
DRAFT
STANDARD 24183
ISO/TC 37
Technical communication —
Secretariat: SAC
Vocabulary
Voting begins on:
Communication technique — Vocabulaire
Voting terminates on:
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2023
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO
ISO copyright office
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
3.1 Terms relating to core concepts . 1
3.2 Terms relating to users . 3
3.3 Terms related to product and information life cycles . 4
3.4 Terms relating to information for use . 5
3.5 Terms relating to information creators . 6
3.6 Terms relating to the information development process . 7
3.6.1 Research and analysis . 7
3.6.2 Content­related processes . . 8
3.6.3 Translation and localization. 9
3.6.4 Risk management processes . 9
3.6.5 Principles of information quality . 10
3.6.6 Tools and resources . 11
3.7 Terms relating to information product elements .12
3.7.1 General .12
3.7.2 Safety-related information .12
3.7.3 Lists and tables . 13
3.7.4 Directories . 14
3.7.5 Pointers . 14
3.7.6 Status indicators . 14
3.8 Terms relating to information products . 15
3.8.1 General .15
3.8.2 Information products according to life cycle phases .15
3.8.3 Catalogues . 17
3.8.4 Diagrams . 18
3.9 Information delivery . 18
Annex A (informative) Concept models .20
Bibliography .22
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non­governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO document should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
ISO draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use
of (a) patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed
patent rights in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, ISO had not received
notice of (a) patent(s) which may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are
cautioned that this may not represent the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent
database available at www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all
such patent rights.
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 37, Language and terminology.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Introduction
Suppliers of goods and services provide information for the use of their products, such as instructions,
manuals, service information, information for assembly or troubleshooting information. Technical
communication is the process of defining, creating and delivering these information products for the
safe, effective and efficient use of supported products.
A standardized common terminology as provided in this document helps to prevent misunderstandings
and disputes between acquirers and suppliers of information products as well as between
manufacturers and customers. A standardized terminology for technical communication will support
both acquirers and suppliers of information products. Organizations that provide information products
can formulate more precise requirements, and providers can deliver information products according to
specifications.
A standardized common terminology also helps to foster mutual understanding, both within the
technical communication community and in contact with other relevant communities such as the
language services industry. Furthermore, this document can be used as a basis for researching and
teaching technical communication in various settings.
Annex A contains two concept models that illustrate the interrelations between some key concepts in
technical communication.
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FINAL DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Technical communication — Vocabulary
1 Scope
This document defines terms for the theory and application of technical communication. It prepares the
terminological background for all other standards in the field of technical communication by providing
precise definitions and standardized terms for basic concepts in this domain.
This document is applicable to persons creating information products in the field of technical
communication or using these information products professionally.
2 Normative references
There are no normative references in this document.
3 Terms and definitions
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1 Terms relating to core concepts
3.1.1
technical communication
DEPRECATED: technical writing
process of defining and creating information for use (3.1.2) to be delivered as information products
(3.1.4) for the safe, effective and efficient use of a supported product (3.1.5) throughout its life cycle
Note 1 to entry: Technical communication includes all modes, such as text (3.7.1.2), image, audio (3.7.1.3) and all
media, e.g. printed manuals, tutorial videos, online help (3.8.1.2).
Note 2 to entry: The term “technical writing” should not be used because it no longer reflects the variety of
modes and media in current use.
Note 3 to entry: In some contexts, the term “technical communication” can refer to more general communicative
acts concerning products, such as e­mail communication between engineers.
3.1.2
information for use
information identified and collected during the information development process
3.1.3
product
result of an action or process
Note 1 to entry: Products can be physical products, technical systems, software and services.
3.1.4
information product
product (3.1.3) consisting of information for use (3.1.2) that is delivered for the safe, effective and
efficient use of a supported product (3.1.5)
Note 1 to entry: Information products can also be generated during runtime of a content delivery system.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
Note 2 to entry: Information products can contain conceptual information (3.4.2), instructional information (3.4.3)
or reference information (3.4.4).
Note 3 to entry: Information products come in various forms, such as manuals (3.8.1.1) or online help (3.8.1.2).
3.1.5
supported product
product (3.1.3) to which an information product (3.1.4) relates
EXAMPLE
— industrial products (e.g. machinery, components, devices, equipment);
— consumer products (e.g. household appliances, audio­visual devices, communication devices, do­it­
yourself products);
— medical devices, equipment and systems;
— complex systems of systems (e.g. industrial plants, refineries, production sites, data centres);
— means of transport (e.g. cars, trucks, ships, airplanes);
— application software (e.g. office software, web applications);
— software for operation and automatic control of systems;
— technical services.
Note 1 to entry: An information product (3.1.4) is an essential component of a supported product.
3.1.6
content
information in any form
EXAMPLE Text (3.7.1.2), audio (3.7.1.3), video.
1)
[SOURCE: ISO 20539:— , 3.1.2]
3.1.7
technical documentation
set of information products (3.1.4) provided by the supplier of a supported product (3.1.5)
3.1.8
technical communicator
DEPRECATED: technical writer
person who develops information for use (3.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: The role of a technical communicator can include researching product information, defining
target audience information needs, ensuring that legal and normative requirements are met, authoring texts
(3.7.1.2), creating safety instructions and coordinating translations (3.6.3.1).
Note 2 to entry: The term “technical writer” should not be used because it no longer reflects the variety of modes
and media in current use.
3.1.9
information structure
organization of information for use (3.1.2) in order to optimize presentation and understanding
3.1.10
structuring method
content organization according to semantic or functional criteria in order to ensure consistency
(3.6.5.1.6) and interchangeability of information
1) Under preparation. Stage at the time of publication: ISO/FDIS 20539:2023.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.1.11
style guide
set of specifications designed to ensure information quality (3.6.5.1) and information product quality
(3.6.5.2)
Note 1 to entry: Style guides should take into account information quality principles such as completeness
(3.6.5.1.4) and consistency (3.6.5.1.6) as well as information product quality criteria such as usability (3.6.5.2.2)
and readability (3.6.5.2.4).
3.1.12
single source publishing
content management approach which allows the same source content (3.1.6) to be delivered across
different forms of media and more than once
3.1.13
terminology
set of designations and concepts belonging to one domain or subject
[SOURCE: ISO 1087:2019, 3.1.11]
3.1.14
terminology work
work concerned with the systematic collection, description, processing and presentation of concepts
and their designations
[SOURCE: ISO 1087:2019, 3.5.1, modified — admitted term “terminology management” and Notes 1 and
2 to entry have been removed.]
3.1.15
translatability
ease of rendering content (3.1.6) from one language or culture to another
3.2 Terms relating to users
3.2.1
user
person who interacts with a supported product (3.1.5)
Note 1 to entry: Users can be part of a specific target audience (3.2.2).
Note 2 to entry: “User” can include persons who install, operate, service, maintain or dispose of the product.
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.47, modified — “a supported product” has been replaced by “the
product” in the definition. A new Note 1 to entry has been added. The former Note 1 to entry has been
renumbered as Note 2 to entry.]
3.2.2
target audience
audience
group of persons for whom an information product (3.1.4) is intended
Note 1 to entry: A target audience can consist of specific users (3.2.1) or other persons.
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.42, modified — “the information product” has been replaced
by “information for use” and “by the supplier” has been deleted in the definition. The admitted term
“audience” and Note 1 to entry have been added.]
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.2.3
skilled person
person with relevant technical education, training and/or experience
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.36, modified — “person” has been replaced by “individual”, “and/
or” has been replaced by “or” and “to enable perceiving risks and avoiding hazards occurring during
use of a product” has been deleted in the definition.]
3.3 Terms related to product and information life cycles
3.3.1
put into service
prepare a system for its intended use (3.6.4.1)
3.3.2
put out of service, verb
change a system from an operational status to a non-operational status
3.3.3
product life cycle
period of time from the first idea to the ultimate disposal (3.3.4.10) or recycling (3.3.4.11) of a product
(3.1.3)
Note 1 to entry: The product life cycle is divided into defined periods called phases in which activities that belong
together are grouped, e.g. product concept, design, production. The beginning and end of phases require definite
decisions.
[SOURCE: ISO 15226:1999, 3.7, modified — “or recycling” has been added in the definition. “(e.g.
releases)” has been deleted.]
3.3.4
product life cycle phase
stage in the product life cycle (3.3.3)
EXAMPLE Design, development, storage (3.3.4.9), transport, installation (3.3.4.1), commissioning (3.3.4.2),
operation (3.3.4.4), troubleshooting, maintenance (3.3.4.5), repair (3.3.4.6), decommissioning (3.3.4.9),
dismounting, disposal (3.3.4.10).
3.3.4.1
installation
product life cycle phase (3.3.4) in which a product (3.1.3) is prepared such that it fulfils its intended use
(3.6.4.1)
3.3.4.2
commissioning
procedures prior, or related, to the handing over of a physical product (3.1.3) ready to be placed into
service
Note 1 to entry: Commissioning can include final acceptance testing, the handing over of relevant documentation
for the supported product (3.1.5) or instructing personnel.
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019, 3.2, modified — “physical” added before “product” in the definition.]
3.3.4.3
setup
process by which a system or component is prepared for operation (3.3.4.4)
3.3.4.4
operation
product life cycle phase (3.3.4) comprising all technical, administrative and managerial actions, other
than maintenance actions, that result in the system functioning according to its intended use (3.6.4.1)
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.3.4.5
maintenance
set of actions intended to retain a product (3.1.3) in, or restore it to, a useful and safe condition, in which
it can perform the intended use (3.6.4.1)
3.3.4.6
repair
corrective maintenance (3.3.4.5) of defective or damaged parts or functions of a product (3.1.3)
[SOURCE: IEC/IEEE 82079­1:2019, 3.31]
3.3.4.7
emergency operation
set of actions and functions intended to end or avert an emergency situation
[SOURCE: ISO 12100:2010, 3.39, modified — "all" has been replaced by "set of" at the beginning of the
definition.]
3.3.4.7.1
emergency stop
emergency operation (3.3.4.7) by means of a single human action
3.3.4.8
storage
life cycle phase of a physical product (3.1.3) being kept available in an adequate environment
3.3.4.9
decommissioning
life cycle phase of a physical product (3.1.3) being put out of service (3.3.2) permanently
3.3.4.10
disposal
life cycle phase of a physical product (3.1.3) describing its elimination or repurposing
3.3.4.11
recycling
life cycle phase involving the repurposing of a material or component which has previously been
processed for inclusion in a product (3.1.3)
[SOURCE: ISO 10209:2022, 3.13.5, modified — “action of reprocessing” has been replaced by “life cycle
phase involving the repurposing” at the beginning of the definition.]
3.4 Terms relating to information for use
3.4.1
information type
class of information determined according to structural principles
3.4.2
conceptual information
information for use (3.1.2) which explains and describes the relevant operating principles of the
supported product (3.1.5)
EXAMPLE Functional description (3.4.2.1).
Note 1 to entry: In analysing information for use, it is possible to differentiate between conceptual information,
instructional information (3.4.3) and reference information (3.4.4).
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.4.2.1
functional description
overall description that explains how each part of a product is expected to operate, interact and be
interacted with
[SOURCE: ISO 16484-1:2010, 3.10, modified — "the system/plant" has been replaced by "a product" and
Note 1 to entry has been removed.]
3.4.3
instructional information
information for use (3.1.2) which states procedures and task­oriented steps to be followed or considered
EXAMPLE Step-by-step instructions.
3.4.4
reference information
information for use (3.1.2) which comprises additional details that need to be retrieved on occasion
EXAMPLE Troubleshooting information (3.8.2.3.5), commands, codes.
3.4.5
document type
class of a document defined with respect to its specified purpose, function and form of presentation
3.5 Terms relating to information creators
3.5.1
terminology manager
expert responsible for the planning, organization and coordination of all terminological activities in the
information development process
3.5.2
terminologist
expert who performs terminology work (3.1.14) as a main function of a professional activity
[SOURCE: ISO 12616­1:2021, 3.30]
3.5.3
terminology worker
person whose role is to perform terminology work (3.1.14) as an ancillary function of other professional
activities
[SOURCE: ISO 12616­1:2021, 3.29]
3.5.4
information architect
person who collects target audience requirements and develops an information strategy
Note 1 to entry: Other terms that are used in some contexts are “content strategist”, “indexer” or “taxonomy
architect”, who carry out similar tasks.
3.5.5
information developer
person responsible for designing, creating, collecting or implementing a range of information product
(3.1.4) aspects, such as text (3.7.1.2), video, photos or other media
Note 1 to entry: Information product aspects include modes, such as text (3.7.1.2), image, audio (3.7.1.3) and
media, for example printed manuals, tutorial videos, online help (3.8.1.2).
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.5.6
expert reviewer
subject matter expert or information product design expert responsible for examination of an
information product (3.1.4) according to defined criteria
3.5.7
translator
person who renders source language content into target language content in written or other recorded
form
2)
[SOURCE: ISO 20539:— , 3.1.12, modified — "translates" has been replaced with "renders source
language content into target language content in written or other recorded form" at the beginning of
the definition.]
3.6 Terms relating to the information development process
3.6.1 Research and analysis
3.6.1.1
product design analysis
process of evaluating product requirements and specifications for the creation of an information
product (3.1.4)
3.6.1.2
information research
set of actions that are necessary to find information on a specific subject
3.6.1.3
information retrieval
IR
set of techniques and processes used to identify resources relevant to an information need, from a
collection or network of information resources
[SOURCE: ISO 25964-1:2011, 2.28, modified — "all the" has been replaced by "set of" at the beginning of
the definition, and "documents" is replaced by "resources".]
3.6.1.4
use case
description of behavioural requirements of a system and its interaction with a user (3.2.1)
[SOURCE: ISO/IEC/IEEE 26515:2018, 3.15, modified — Note 1 to entry has been removed.]
3.6.1.5
persona
model of a fictitious user (3.2.1) with defined properties, based on information research (3.6.1.2)
3.6.1.6
target audience analysis
analysis and classification of the intended types of target audiences (3.2.2) of an information product
(3.1.4)
3.6.1.7
task analysis
analysis on how a task is accomplished, including a description of both manual and mental activities
performed by intended user(s) (3.2.1)
2) Under preparation. Stage at the time of publication: ISO/FDIS 20539:2023.
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.6.1.8
research interview
questioning technique which results in a transfer of information from a person or group being
interviewed to an interviewer or researcher
3.6.2 Content-related processes
3.6.2.1
content creation
contribution of information to any media, targeting a specific user (3.2.1), target audience (3.2.2) or
system in specific contexts
Note 1 to entry: The receiver of the content (3.1.6) can be a system or, in industrial internet of things environments,
a digital asset (data representation of a physical object) that uses it, for example, for self-maintenance.
3.6.2.2
content delivery
distribution of an information product (3.1.4) via an application
3.6.2.3
content management
set of processes involved in the creation, production, distribution, manipulation, storage (3.3.4.8) and
use of content (3.1.6)
[SOURCE: ISO 20294:2018, 3.5.5, modified — "set of" has been added at the beginning of the definition,
and "digital" has been deleted before "content".]
3.6.2.4
document management
database-driven administration of electronic or electronically collected documents
Note 1 to entry: Document management includes finding documents via metadata, managing of text modules
and their versions and variants, storage (3.3.4.8), approval and production and delivery of information products
(3.1.4).
3.6.2.5
content mapping
process of delivering appropriate content (3.1.6) to the target audience (3.2.2) or system for a specific
situation in the life cycle of the supported product (3.1.5)
Note 1 to entry: The receiver of the content can be a system or, in industrial internet of things environments, a
digital asset (data representation of a physical object) that uses the content, for example, for self-maintenance.
3.6.2.6
content reuse
use of existing content components in order to create a new information product (3.1.4)
3.6.2.7
editing
modification of content (3.1.6) or layout of text (3.7.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Editing processes include insertion, deletion and re-arrangement of text.
3.6.2.8
formatting
process of creating a layout of an information product (3.1.4)
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ISO/FDIS 24183:2023(E)
3.6.3 Translation and localization
3.6.3.1
translation
rendering source language content into target language content in written form or signed language
Note 1 to entry: “other recorded form” includes, for example, video recor
...