TS ISO 860

TS ISO 860 addresses the methodological side of terminology work, focusing on how concepts, concept systems, definitions and terms can be harmonized in a controlled and coherent way. It is a core reference for terminology management where consistent meaning matters across languages, disciplines or organisations.

Why concept harmonization matters

In general technical practice, terminology work is not simply about matching words. The process starts with identifying the concept, then mapping its relations to other concepts, and only then selecting the most appropriate term or terms. This is especially important in standards work, technical documentation, translation, information management and database design, where inconsistent wording can lead to ambiguity. The distinction between a concept system and a term system is fundamental: the former is the logical structure of meaning, while the latter is the linguistic expression of that structure.

What this standard contributes

The scope of this standard is to specify a methodological approach to the harmonization of concepts, concept systems, definitions and terms. In practice, that means it provides a structured way to organise terminology work so that term choice, definition quality and conceptual consistency can be considered together. This helps reduce mismatches between sources and supports clearer technical communication within a field.

• Supports consistent definition of concepts.
• Helps organise relationships between concepts.
• Promotes alignment between definitions and terms.
• Provides a common methodological basis for multilingual or multidisciplinary terminology work.