Significance of publishing dictionaries/vocabularies and terminology in standardization

When adopting standards, one of the most important steps is the establishment and harmonization of terminology. Before proceeding with the development of individual standards in a specific field, it is essential that all experts and users of the standards use “the same language.” This is precisely why the publication of dictionaries/vocabularies and terminology in standardization is of exceptional importance, as it establishes a common framework for understanding the concepts, expressions, and definitions used in the work.

Members of the NTCs for adopting standards, as experts in specific fields, encounter the terminology covered by the standards in their everyday professional work. Therefore, they are primarily called upon to participate in the development of dictionaries/vocabularies for a specific series of standards. In order to prevent errors during the translation of standards, it is necessary to harmonize the terminology, meaning that everyone agrees on the meaning of professional terms, thus preventing misunderstandings and ambiguities in the application of standards. After the dictionary/vocabulary is adopted, the adoption of standards that rely on the accepted terms and definitions is facilitated. 

Clearly defined concepts guarantee consistency, precision, and reliability, while simultaneously preventing arbitrary interpretations that could cause confusion or unpredictable situations in practice.

In standardization, it is very important that there is no improvisation, which is another reason why terms must be clearly defined.