Use clear language in withdrawal notices

Quick Actions

Keep language simple and direct, so everyone can understand the notice.
Highlight who to contact for questions or additional support.
Share notices in accessible formats, such as screen-reader friendly documents, accessible PDFs, and sign language interpretation videos.

Provide a feedback period before the withdrawal decision is made and explain how and when people can submit feedback.
Provide plain language summaries that cover:
- Why the standard might be withdrawn
- What the potential impacts are
- Key timelines for the process

The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)'s cognitive accessibility guidance recognizes clear language as an important part of accessibility. Information should be understandable, predictable, and presented in ways that reduce unnecessary cognitive effort.
The Government of Canada recommends using plain language so people can quickly find, understand, and act on information. This includes using clear wording, short sentences, meaningful headings, and avoiding unnecessary technical terms.
The US Federal Plain Language Guidelines provide practical techniques for making information easier to understand, including organizing content clearly, using familiar words, and explaining technical language.

Netherlands – Nederlands Normalisatie Instituut (NEN) offers technical support and consultation services for stakeholders impacted by a withdrawn standard. They help organizations interpret the changes, assess risks, and identify substitute standards, ensuring minimal disruption to services or compliance.
South Korea – Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) engages with affected sectors before and after a withdrawal. They issue interim guidance and work with industry groups and advocacy organizations to co-develop new or updated standards where needed.
New Zealand – Standards New Zealand (SNZ) provides public-facing FAQs and advisory support after the withdrawal of major standards. They often partner with government agencies to ensure that policy and procurement frameworks reflect the change and that users are not left without direction.