ISO 24495 – How Simple Language Optimizes Your Processes

How to make your texts more understandable

The good news? You don’t need a certificate to get started. Whether ISO 24495 certification is right for your company depends on your industry and clients. But regardless, the new ISO standard is a strong nudge for companies to improve how they communicate. Here are some practical tips to help:

At the word level

• ‍Use consistent terminology:
  Call things by name — and don’t shy away from repetition. Avoid brackets and slashes. Choose one word and stick with it.
• ‍Simplify compound nouns:
  English loves long word chains, but they quickly become confusing. If a noun is made of more than two words, use hyphens to make it easier to read.
• ‍Watch your jargon:
  Are your readers familiar with the technical terms you take for granted? When in doubt, explain or rephrase.
• ‍Eliminate filler words:
  Words that add little or no meaning have no place in informative writing. Cut them.

At the sentence level

• ‍Simplify sentence structure:
  Avoid long, nested sentences. Stick to short, clear main clauses. A good rule of thumb: one subordinate clause max.
• ‍Prefer active voice:
  Say “We optimize the processes together” instead of “The processes are optimized together.” Always make it clear who’s acting.
• ‍Use indicative instead of subjunctive:
  Skip “would,” “could,” and “should” where possible. Just say what is.
• ‍Avoid modal verbs:
  Words like “can,” “should,” and “must” often weaken your message. Remove them if they’re not essential.
• ‍Replace participle phrases:
  Instead of “the management system to be brought to life,” write “the management system that we want to bring to life.”
• ‍Turn nominalizations into verbs:
  Verbs are easier to understand than nouns derived from them. Instead of “Our services include the consulting and support of customers,” say “We consult and support our customers.”
• ‍Avoid clunky verb phrases:
  Use direct verbs like “influence” or “offer” instead of “have an influence on” or “make available.”

At the text level

Structure longer texts by:

• summarizing key points at the beginning
• dividing the content into short, logical sections
• using subheadings
• turning lists with more than three items into bullet points
• highlighting key terms with formatting

Simple language isn’t just a stylistic choice — it’s a practical tool. Focus on shorter, clearer, more effective sentences. You can apply the same approach to your communication, process descriptions, and work instructions. With a clear message, you simplify internal and external processes for everyone involved. Your colleagues and contractors will thank you — with or without ISO 24495 certification.

Want to dig deeper into process improvement?
Check out our 6 tips for writing better process descriptions.