ISO/IEC/IEEE Standard 26513 calls for early testing of user documentation

For every product or service launched, thousands of words are written for technical manuals, product guides, marketing documentation, software help, websites, blogs, articles, health and safety warnings, and more. Taking a few steps to incorporate usability, accessibility, and localization early in the documentation process can save time, resources and money.

Text by Sandy Bartell Brian Traynor

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ISO/IEC/IEEE Standard 26513 calls for early testing of user documentation

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The "ISO/IEC/IEEE Standard 26513, Systems and software engineering – Requirements for testers and reviewers of user documentation" assists those who are involved in the testing and reviewing of information for users in the context of software and systems development. The standard reinforces the need for end users to receive information about software and systems that is usable, complete, consistent, and accurate. A strong emphasis is placed on the need for testing information products with real users during the development cycle.

Originally published in 2011, the standard has been revised to include a stronger focus on document evaluation strategy, usability testing, accessibility testing of user information, reviewing and testing of translation and localization, a new annex with user-centered testing and reviewing guidelines, and an extended bibliography. Publication of this new ...