Standards Development

Scope

This document supports the interest of software and systems users in receiving consistent, complete, accurate, and usable information for users and specifies processes for use in reviewing and testing of information for users (Clause 5, 6 & 7). " It is not limited to the review and test stage of the software and system lifecycle but includes activities throughout the information management process. The principles may also support earlier design activities (see Annex A). Information for users may be provided for application software, systems software, applications on mobile devices, software that controls machinery, and hardware devices. It applies to information such as printed or electronic user manuals, online help, embedded user assistance, tutorials, websites, or reference materials.

This document is intended for use in all types of organizations, whether a dedicated information development team is present or not. In all cases, it can be used as a basis for local guidelines and procedures. Readers are assumed to have experience or general knowledge of reviewing and testing processes as they pertain to content suitable for information for users.

NOTE 1 Information for users is also included in evaluation of the software or system, as in the ISO/IEC 25000 and 29000 series of standards:

— ISO/TR 25060:2023;

— ISO/IEC 25062:2025;

— ISO/IEC 25063:2014;

— ISO/IEC 25064: 2013;

— ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-3:2021.

This document is applicable to reviewers, testers, and other related roles, including a variety of specialists:

— reviewers of information for users, and subject-matter experts;

— information developers and architects who plan the structure and format of products for information for users;

— usability specialists and business analysts who identify the tasks the intended users perform with the software;

— editors;

— customer support groups such as training, technical support, installers, system administrators.

This document can also be consulted by those with other roles and interests in the information management process. Managers of the software development process or the information management process consider the testing of information for users as part of their planning and management activities.

NOTE 2 Testing of information for users can highlight problems with the software. Resolving problems with the software is not in the scope of this document.

The order of clauses in this document does not imply that information for users is meant to be reviewed, assessed, edited, or tested in this order.

The works listed in the Bibliography provide additional guidance on the processes of managing, preparing, and testing of information for users.