STE Training

Why training is necessary

The purpose of STE is to give technical writers guidelines on how to write texts that are simple, unambiguous, and easy to understand for readers worldwide.

However, STE is not a simplified version of English for writers. Writing correctly in STE is a demanding task. It requires a strong command of the English language, combined with a comprehensive understanding of the subject that the writer is addressing. This combination is unquestionably the key to achieving effective and accurate STE writing.
Writers who aim to use STE correctly and clearly must use only one reference: the ASD-STE100 document. There is no substitute for it.

Writing in STE is not straightforward. Without appropriate training, writers often focus solely on the dictionary and neglect the importance of the writing rules. Simply providing writers with a copy of the standard is likely to discourage engagement and correct application. A solid understanding of the rules, along with a reflective approach to writing, is essential. For this reason, STE training represents a critical first step in enabling technical writers to apply the standard correctly.

To assist both users and potential users of STE, various training providers offer courses on the application of the standard. These companies or individuals may provide valuable services and therefore it is important for the STEMG to initiate and maintain a dialogue with them.
Nonetheless, there are also training providers who may have no practical experience with the standard, are not affiliated with the STEMG, and have not even received basic training from an STEMG trainer. While such providers may be professionally competent in fields such as technical writing, language services, or other controlled natural languages, this does not necessarily imply expertise in STE.

STE Training Providers

STEMG members and partners

Provide basic certified training (for writers, reviewers, proofreaders).
STEMG members or partners cannot certify other trainers.

STEMG trainers

UNINETTUNO University

Provides basic certified training (for writers, reviewers, proofreaders).
Provides certified training for prospective trainers.

More about UNINETTUNO

Non-STEMG trainers certified by UNINETTUNO

Provide basic certified training (for writers, reviewers, proofreaders).
Non-STEMG trainers certified by Uninettuno cannot certify other trainers.

Non-STEMG trainers

Commercial companies and individuals (free market)

Provide uncontrolled STE training.
No link with the STEMG.
No ASD endorsement.

Important notice

Are you looking for STE training?

To help you find a suitable STE trainer, consider these questions:

Does a member or a partner in the STEMG in your country know of the trainer?
Does the trainer have experience in your specific industry?
Has the trainer worked with STE? For how long?
Is the trainer accredited by UNINETTUNO, or are they a member or a partner of the STEMG?
Who provided the trainer’s initial STE training, and when?
Can the trainer provide references?
Is the trainer willing to adapt the course content to your specific needs?

Before you plan your course

How many participants will attend the course? Training sessions with many participants may reduce the opportunity for direct interaction with the trainer.
What is your level of English? A strong command of English is essential for understanding and applying STE. A professional working proficiency, equivalent to CEFR level C1, is recommended. This corresponds approximately to an IELTS score of 7.0–8.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 95–110. A solid knowledge of English grammar is also necessary to fully understand the principles of STE.
What type of documentation do you write? The trainer should be able to adapt the course to the type of documentation that you work with. You may be asked to provide examples for use during the course.
Do you already have experience with STE? Your level of experience is important for the trainer to effectively present the course content. Nevertheless, as STE continues to evolve, attending a full course may still be beneficial—even for experienced users.
Who can you contact to find the STE trainer? Many of the STEMG members and partners offer STE training courses. If they cannot provide training directly, they can recommend a qualified trainer to you. You can find more information on the dedicated page.

It is important to note that ASD has accredited trainers who are members or partners of the STEMG or have been certified by UNINETTUNO.
ASD and the STEMG do not explicitly endorse other external individuals, companies, or organizations that provide STE training.
The STEMG recommends attending STE training courses conducted by accredited trainers.

List of accredited STE trainers