Believing Seven Myths About ASD-STE100 Keeps You From Growing

There are a few prevalent misconceptions in ASD-STE100 that requires invalidation with corresponding arguments.

1. Differences in Global English and Simplified English

Global English and Simplified English are different from each other. Global English is applicable globally while Simplified English is a controlled language applicable to all audiences to understand language easily. STE clearly specifies the binding rules for authors to make the language easy to understand among native and non-native English speakers.

2. Applicability only to Aviation

We are aware that the aviation industry had developed and implemented Simplified Technical English. In addition, only three to four percent of the terms in vocabulary corresponds to the aviation industry. As the specifications emerge from the general insights obtained from the research into comprehensibility, it is applicable for every type of technical documentation. Most of the definitions and examples extend to various technical areas and industries. The standards do not specify specialized terminology, branch of industry, and applicability.

3. No need of translation

This standard reduces the need for translation. STE standard particularly developed in a simple structure and word selection for end-users with less English knowledge. The rules behind the STE standard lead to reduce translational needs.

4. Only for the Multinational Corporate Companies

This is one of the misconceptions that writers and editors still have. Any industries can implement STE irrespective of their size. In order to get better comprehensibility internationally, this STE standard can be utilized.

5. Complexity

Technical Writers and Editors think that STE is too complex in technical aspects. But, it is actually easy to use. The standard consists of simple sructure with Dictionary and Writing rules. Dictionary clearly denotes about word usage. While, writing rules denote about consistency in terminology, list of texts, and appropriate categorization of safety alerts and instructions.

6. Software Requirements

This is one of the misconceptions present among the Engineers and Technical Writers. Software requirements are not mandatory for STE. STE can be adopted without the use of any software. No software can replace the STE specification. Practical training with STE specification is large enough for applying STE. 

7. Author Impacts

STE is a rule-based language, which is common to both native and non-native English speakers. We need appropriate differentiation for STE. STE is meant only for technical documentation. Its intended uses are the better understanding across global audiences and reduction in translation.