Translation and language services are more in demand than ever before due to influences such as, globalization, technology, human migration, or regulatory requirements, and chances are that if you’re in business, you’ll need to use translation and language services at some point.
If you’ve never used translation and language services before or are considering a new project which will require translation or localization, this blog is for you.
At Creative Word, with over two decades of experience to draw upon, we understand all the considerations and issues facing businesses when creating an efficient translation strategy and we’ve listed the top three things to think about for your translation project here…
1. What is the Aim and Purpose of your Translation Project?
You might be opening a new overseas office, want to target a new international clientele, or need to fulfil legal and regulatory obligations for your products, but whatever the aim and purpose of your translation project, you need to set it out clearly and objectively.
Consider factors such as:
• Budget
• Timescale
• Language(s) required
• Is it an ongoing project or one-off?
• What do you want to achieve from this project
• Identify your project manager(s) – make sure they’re up to speed with everything
• Assess materials for translation/make sure they’re relevant to your aim
Fully understanding the purpose and aim of your translation project before translation begins will ensure you’re able to communicate everything to your chosen Language Services Provider (LSP) and by having all the relevant facts and materials ready in advance you can save time during the project, avoiding any indecision and hesitancy.
Clearly define your budget (and discuss this with your LSP) ensuring costs are unambiguously detailed and that all aspects are covered within these costs.
In particular, check that the LSP has included costs for editing, proofreading, compatibility tests, and so on, as these elements are occasionally offered at an additional cost.
Similarly, if your project is likely to be ongoing, or will require future updates and additions, then it is worth spending some time collating a glossary of frequently used terms/phrases/words for your LSP which can be translated once and then added to every successive project without a need to repeat the translation process, thus saving you money.
2. Define and Refine your Translation Requirements
Once you’ve got all the basics above covered, it is time to refine and define your requirements for the translation project and look closely at what needs to be translated.
Consider factors such as:
• What content needs to be translated? Is it training materials, an app, marketing emails, a website?
• Is it digital/non-digital? How will this content be shared with your LSP?
• Will there be repeat translation requirements?
• Can you reduce the content and still ensure it makes sense? (Lower word count = lower costs)
• Do you need translation or localization services? Localization is more in-depth than translation and adapts content based on cultural considerations as well as language, so it is ideal for marketing and website content
• Will you be using some in-house translation?
• How much content requires translation? Do you need to translate all of your website or just some main pages?
• Would native-language copywriting suit some of your content? This can be used instead of translation and is really beneficial especially in a marketing context as content is created with the target audience and culture in mind. It can also be a cheaper option than translation or localization and can be used to create blogs, press releases, training materials and so on.
Understanding exactly what your requirements are for your translation project will allow you to assess where potential savings can be made, gain a more accurate timescale and scope, and ensure you achieve your goal.
3. Do-it-Yourself or Professional Translation Service?
With virtually every conceivable business cost soaring at present it can be tempting to cut corners in an effort to save money.
However, this isn’t always the right choice and can even cost more in the long run.
For instance, choosing the ‘Do-it-yourself’ option for your translation project can lead to inaccuracies, and might even cause cultural offence to your intended audience, if you aren’t a native speaker, which is likely to put potential clients and customers off.
Choosing to use a professional Language Service Provider is the more expensive option but when chosen well, your LSP can help you achieve the goals you’ve set for your translation project.
A professional LSP is able to:
• Ensure all language and translation is accurate and appropriate
• Guarantee your project is culturally acceptable
• Guide you with professional support and advice throughout the whole process
• Offer additional services such as, proofreading, editing, glossaries, compatibility checks, project managers, and so on
• Offer multiple languages
• Give access to linguists who specialize in your industry
• Offer a full range of language services including translation, localization, copywriting, interpreting, and transcription
Professional LSPs should have experience working within your sector and in the language(s) you require as this will ensure you receive the best service for your money.
If you aren’t sure about the level of expertise they offer, ask to see previous examples of their work, and check they use linguists with industry knowledge.
We actively encourage potential clients to contact us to find out how we can help them achieve their translation project aims, and to find out more about the language services we offer, or the industries in which we specialise.
The team of experts here at Creative Word, has been developed over the last two decades and offers exceptional service and value for money.
Contact us now to discuss your translation requirements.
