The translation process is a complex one. This is exactly why it is necessary to follow a few key steps to ensure that the quality of your translation doesn’t get compromised and that the overall process becomes simpler. So, here are the right steps for a smooth Translate-Edit-Proof Process.
Conduct a Review
The first step is to conduct a thorough review of documents/files. All the instructions associated with the job and the necessary approach should also be looked at. Ensure that the subject matter is something you are familiar with. The same goes for the format as well.
The format must be translation-friendly and sent with a translation memory. You will also likely receive recommendations concerning what Computer-assisted Translation (CAT) tool to use. Make sure you adhere to that.
Refer
Make sure you refer to all the right reference materials, the style guides, terminology databases, and glossaries. Most clients will provide you with a database. You can import this database into a CAT tool while the CSV generates a glossary file for you.
Ensure that you are consistent with the terminology and style that the client expects.
For more information, you can refer to relevant external sources as well.
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The Major Challenges to Translation Industry
Proof Read
Once you’re done with the translation, run the document through a spellchecker to identify misspellings or typos. Take the time to compare the translated document with the original. Then, read again without referring to the original to see if it conveys the same message.
Refer to the source text again to check for formatting problems or missing text. Your CAT tools will likely possess Quality Assurance (QA) features to help you out with this. You can use the QA feature in your tool to look for untranslated segments, wrong numbers, and missing text/numbers, etc.
Avoid Being Literal
Make sure you don’t choose literal meanings. This is generally unaccepted since meanings can change in the target language. Things such as context and connotation need to be considered. In the case of technical translation, be specific and objective. Aim for accuracy and precision when carrying out such translations.
Put the Translated Document Through an Internal Review
Make sure the translated document goes through an internal review. There are review process standards for each country. So, refer to them if you don’t already have a review process in place. The US follows ASTM STD. F 2575‐06, while Europe follows the EN 15038 standard.
Get Back to the Client
When sending back the work, make sure you add notes or comments. Request feedback to know how things can be improved.
As you can see, all it takes is a few key steps to make sure that the review process meets the basic expectations. The core idea is to go through everything in a thorough manner and to make the most of the right translation tools.
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