Technical translation is a specialized process that requires in-depth knowledge of the languages being translated and of the relevant technical field. Therefore, choosing the right service provider is crucial to ensure the accuracy and quality of your project.
While it was already important to choose the right service provider, in the age of AI it has become even more confusing. LLMs (Large Language Models) do a lot of things well, and some things not so well. In my view, translating is one of those things that just doesn't work: lack of coherence, grammatical calques, and lack of terminological specificity are some of the easily detectable problems in AI-translated texts.
If the only element to be considered by your company when looking for a technical translation service is the price: look no further, ChatGPT or any of the other free LLMs are your choice... but... be well aware of the risks you are taking. In all other cases, human translation has to be the chosen approach, but where to start among all the different options offered?
How to choose the ideal service provider?
- Experience and specialization:
- Specific industry: Look for providers with experience in the industry of your project (medicine, engineering, software, etc.). You can ask for examples of projects in which they have been involved in the past, as long as they do not breach confidentiality agreements.
- Terminology: Be sure that they master the specific technical terminology and style standards of the industry. Working with an existing glossary can facilitate this situation.
- References: Request references from previous clients on similar projects. The social media or website may already include such references. Check them out!
- Workflow:
- Projects management: Inquire about their working methodology, translation tools and workflows. Adaptability to client needs does not have to be in conflict with well-defined workflows.
- Confidentiality: Be sure that they comply with confidentiality and data protection regulations. Your projects deserve the most responsible management that can be provided.
- Revision and edition: Learn about the revision and proofreading processes to ensure final quality. If deemed appropriate, a final round of internal review may be necessary, provided it is agreed in advance.
- Work team:
- Specialized Translators: Ensure that translators are native speakers of the target language and specialized in the subject area. If the supplier is ISO 17100 certified, this requirement must always be fulfilled.
- Proofreaders: Ensure that there is a review process by a second translator or proofreader. ISO 17100 itself regulates the participation of two professionals.
- Support team: Ask if there is a support team in place to resolve queries and manage the project efficiently. Unforeseen events can always occur and having a plan ‘B’ can make all the difference.
- Technology:
- Tools: Enquiry whether translation tools are used to ensure consistency and efficiency in the translation. This affects not only the quality, but also the deadlines for the delivery of translations.
- Terminology Management: Check if terminology databases are available to guarantee consistency using technical terms. This is a major element to ensure a high-quality technical translation.
- Pricing and deadlines:
- Detailed quotations: Request detailed quotations including all services and possible additional costs. No surprises from the start.
- Delivery deadlines: Compare delivery times offered by different providers and make sure they meet your needs. Early provision of full information helps the provider to offer delivery times that are realistic and tailored to your needs.
Additional tips:
- Ask for sample translations: Ask for samples of previous work to assess the quality of translation and style. This may be in direct conflict with confidentiality agreements, though this is not always the case.
- Ask for additional services: Some service providers offer additional services such as localization, design and layout. Translation usually does not come as an isolated request. Take advantage of service packages to reduce costs and concentrate management in one central point.
- Think about corporate culture: Choose a provider with a business culture that aligns with yours. If there is a shared vision and working philosophy, there is a greater chance that the project will come to a successful outcome.
To sum up, choosing the right technical translation provider is an investment in the quality and success of your projects. Considering these factors, you can find a reliable partner to help you communicate your messages accurately and effectively in the target language, to start, maintain or expand your presence in international markets, or to work fluently with partners anywhere in the world.
Do you need further information? Do not hesitate to consult technical translation experts or request quotes from different providers.
