4 things not to do when writing work instructions

Work instructions are at the heart of industrial documentation and require particular attention. Allowing to describe the functions of each operator in detail, operating modes determine the success or failure of the organization of work within the factory.

In this article, we are going to focus on what you have to avoid while designing your work instructions.

1. Not putting visuals

No one can deny the impact of visual representation on information assimilation and the understanding of instructions. Also not putting any visuals could hinder the operators’ understanding of work instructions. In fact, it is necessary to rely on the simplicity of representation of operating modes to ensure that they are applied to the letter.

This documentation should comprise visual elements that are associated with texts to schematise and popularize the information contained. Sharing knowledge in the industry is based on the principle that everyone, regardless of their age and level can have access to the information and instructions needed to do their job.

2. Not thinking about who is going to consult it

In the same vein, the design of work instructions must focus on the popularization of information. Not thinking about who is going to consult it might only hinder the delivery of the message. When designing your work instructions, always bear in mind the different profiles of your operators. They have to be able to interpret and apply your operating modes otherwise the existence of these industrial documents would be futile.

3. Not printing the new versions

In order to guarantee the efficiency of work instructions, a management system of industrial documents must be implemented. In fact, operating modes are evolving and constantly updated to keep up with new technologies and new procedures deployed. Therefore, it is necessary to omit documents containing obsolete versions of work instructions. It would be better to use new documents containing the latest version of instructions in digital format.

This enables the company to operate in harmony with new changes:

  • Whether brought by management
  • Due to the acquisition of new machines
  • Due to new processes and products to be manufactured

4. Not collecting information

Data represents a major challenge to industry 4.0. It helps to monitor, measure and assess performance in order to bring the necessary Improvements. Speaking of improvement, management systems based on continuous improvements rely heavily on collected data. This is whether it is with operators, customers or various stakeholders.

The improvement of work instructions is no exception to this rule. Data on the use of operating modes must be collected and centralized by those who occupy decision-making and strategic positions. By collecting data, manufacturers will be able to assess the relevance of work instructions and plan improvements.

Why not using digital work instructions software

The digital work instruction software natively integrates all features to help you create visual documents that are adapted to your users. These documents will not pile up in your workshop, be obsolete and will allow you to collect valuable information on your products. Ask for your Picomto work instruction software demonstration.