“A Guide To Writing

World Class Standards”

Engr. Islam Hossain
 A standard is a collection of the minimum
requirements necessary for something to:

What is a • Co-exist and interoperate correctly with another.

Standard? • Meet national and international regulations.

• Operate safely without causing harm to people or

equipment.
  Equipment / Material behavior.
 Physical characteristics.
Content  Policy requirements on operation and
of a management practices.

standard.  Test specifications.

 Methodologies.
 Always keep it in your mind.

Content Don't try to standardize implementation

details or constraints.
of a
Implementers need to know only what to
standard. implement and you must give them the
freedom to achieve this in the way that suits
them best.
  Well-defined objectives that respond to
What real needs in a timely manner.
makes a  Requirements should be expressed clearly
and unambiguously.
standard  Technical content should be complete and
world accurate.
 Easy to understand and easy to implement.
class?  should be validated and well-maintained.
 Since we will be preparing different documents one by
one, it is important that we all have the same drafting
style. So we have to strictly maintain the points
Framework mentioned below to make a common framework.

of a Document structure.
Numbering format.
standard. Naming conventions.
Drafting language.
Recommendations on the use of tools.
Identification of the supporting materials.
 Basic Steps of Standards Development
Maintenance & Evaluation resulting in a new work item
Feedback
Feedback
Feedback

Work Editorial Standard

Drafting Review Approval User
Item Check Doc
 Clearly Define the Scope and Objectives

 Determine the specific area or topic that the standard will

address.
How to draft  Identify the primary audience or stakeholders who will use
a good or be affected by the standard. Understand their needs,
requirements, and expectations.

standard?  Engage key stakeholders, including industry experts,

practitioners, regulators, and end users, in the scoping
process.
 Conduct a thorough review of existing standards,
guidelines, regulations, and best practices related to the
subject matter.
 Use Clear and Concise Language
 Clearly define key terms and concepts in the standard and
use them consistently to maintain clarity and avoid
confusion. Consider creating a dedicated section or glossary
How to draft to provide definitions for specialized terminology.
 Write in the active voice to enhance clarity and directness.
a good  When dealing with complex concepts or procedures, break

standard? them down into smaller, manageable parts. Use bullet

points or step-by-step instructions to provide clear
guidance and make it easier for readers to follow the
standard and understand it.
 Incorporate visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, tables, or
illustrations, to supplement the text.
 Structure the Standard Appropriately

Organize the standard in a logical and structured

How to draft manner.

a good For example, use headings, subheadings, and

standard? numbered sections to enhance readability and
navigation. Consider including an introduction, a
definitions section, a requirements or guidelines
section, and any necessary annexes or references.
 Be Specific and Detailed

• Provide specific and detailed requirements or

How to draft guidelines to leave little room for interpretation.

a good • Include measurable criteria when applicable to

facilitate evaluation and compliance.
standard? • Additionally, you might want to include step-by-
step instructions or procedures for specific
processes with expected outcomes.
How to draft Ensure Consistency and Accuracy

a good Consistency in terminology, formatting, and style

standard?
throughout is important to maintain the standard’s
credibility, effectiveness, and usability.
 Revise, Edit, and Proofread
• Revising, editing, and proofreading will be ongoing
throughout the writing process.
How to draft • Continuously review and revise the standard based
a good on feedback, changing industry practices,
emerging technologies, and regulatory updates.
standard? • While proofreading, double-check that you’ve used
all terms consistently in the standard and ensure
that grammar, spelling, and punctuation follow
standard English guidelines.
Thank You