subject: Vetting Translation Companies For Technical Translation Services:what You Should Expect From A Techn [print this page] Does your company have plans to deploy highly technical products and services across international markets? If youre planning a release in multiple languages, there are a few things youll want to consider prior to seeking language translation services from a translation company.
Technical translation services specialize in language translation services aimed at technical, engineering, and scientific audiences abroad. For multinational companies, this might include technical translation services for operating manuals, patents, installation instructions, user guides, safety warnings, training publications, data sheets, labels, and other engineering specifications.
A translation company capable of advanced technical language translation will employ linguists who are also subject matter experts in the technical information at hand. Given the often mission-critical aspects of technical translation, clarity and consistency are key. Even small discrepancies in training materials or software specs could result in frustrated clients and damage to your brand.
technical translation services differ somewhat from agencies focused on the marketing and advertising aspects of brand translation and localization. Whereas ad slogans and creative copy may deal with puns, word-play, and idioms, technical translation aspires for linguistic consistency and strict accuracy. Youll also want to make sure that the agency offers QA (quality assurance) services, which may include a second, qualified translator reviewing the document, or having a linguistic editor vetting the accuracy. Then, ideally, you would have an internal employee, in the target country, review the final, translated document.
When reviewing a potential translation company for technical translation services, be sure to ask for proof of proficiency in your specific industry. A good translation company for technical translation should be able to demonstrate their work for past clients and demonstrate connections to translators with advanced degrees relevant to your products and services.
In addition to static documentation, an ideal translation partner should be able to help you translate media-rich technical content as well. This might include online training programs or other eLearning tools you use within your company. If youre preparing software or devices for global markets, ask your translation company if they have expertise specific to hardware and software user interface translation.
Technical translation services are also an excellent way to manage RFP (Request For Proposal) responses in other languages. If you offer enterprise-level software or hardware solutions overseas, a translation company with a technical background can ensure your company responds both accurately and clearly. Nothing undermines an international RFP faster than a response with stilted grammar or inappropriate word choice.
With global profits at stake, you dont want to gamble on translators who dont fully understand the technical nature of your companys products and services. While many translation companies offer a complete range of language translation services, take the extra time to verify the technical translation capabilities of your short list of partners.
