With manufacturing companies expanding, software development enhancing, and training becoming more specialized, it is evident that a language service provider should offer technical translations as a service.
What is necessary for technical translation services?
A common concern from businesses that need technical translations is if the language service provider (LSP) can handle translating the very technical, specific terminology they use. To ensure technical translation success, it may be best to partner with a professional technical translation service provider. Technical translation service providers have a worldwide network of translators who are subject matter experts in specific fields. With a large network of subject matter expert translators, technical translation providers have processes in place to ensure that the SME translator has the background required to translate the technical jargon appropriately.
Whether you are currently working with a translation partner or will be working with one in the near future, there are four technical translation tips that will ultimately make your job easier.
Tip 1: keep it to the point
To get quality technical translation, it is best to write the English clearly. Keep the English short and to the point so that the translations are also concise and accurate. For clarity, you can send over reference materials to the translator so that he/she has a very clear idea of the style and tone of your business.
Tip 2: organize files
Organizing your files for translation and labeling them correctly will move the translation and localization process along much quicker. By sending only the files that will need to be translated in its original source file format, the turnaround time will be much quicker. Additionally, remove all hard return spacing from the files before sending.
Tip 3: reap the benefits of translation memory
Translation memory is a linguistic database that helps leverage your translations to maintain consistency with technical terminology. Translation memory allows the translator to translate line by line which helps to ensure that every line in the copy has been clearly reviewed. The translators are able to reference previously translated terms specific to your translations which will ensure consistency in terminology for the same key terms across all of your projects.
Tip 4: use glossary development
Translation glossary development is an added translation service that ensures subject specific terminology translations are accurate and appropriate before translating the entire source. Your translation provider would put together a glossary of translated target language terms and then you can have your linguistic teams review, approve or edit the preferential terms upfront prior to your LSP translating all of your content.
Conclusion
Technical translation service providers understand that with such specialized content also comes the importance of consistent terminology. Technical translations will make your technical jargon accessible to a wider audience and with these four tips, technical writers can ensure their team that all is translated with technical accuracy.