subject: Rfp Translation Secrets: 3 Strategies To Communicating Effectively In A Different Language [print this page] 1. Embrace diversity1. Embrace diversity
RFP translations are standard practice in many industries and involve much more than just language; there are many practical differences that must be taken into account. Legal and regulatory frameworks, contract law, intellectual property rights, anti-piracy regulation and contractual requirements vary from country to country. Other factors such as cultural, religious, and political differences can pose huge barriers to an effective RFP translation. When dealing with high-profile contracts that are procured and executed with public funds, a high standard of ethics is demanded so knowing the differences you may face will help avoid missteps throughout the process.
2. Plan to localize (i.e. adapt), not to just translate
Localization, which involves the full adaptation of your content, graphics and design, is a critical step in the RFP translation process and its importance is often overlooked. Many opportunities present themselves during RFP translation and localization such as the creation of an international brand. Plan for localization as part of your business strategy in order to reap the benefits along the way. Seek support from key decision makers and involve in-country players from the start so that you can be as informed as possible about the local market and budget your time, money and resources accordingly. Make sure your document is designed to handle translation; you will need to localize your image library as well as typography. Plan for expansion, a document may expand up to 1/3 upon translation so design tables and graphs for bi-directional language and keep text separate from graphics.
3. Ask About Cultural and Language Expectations
There are many pertinent questions you will need to find answers to in order to effectively localize a Request for Proposal. For starters, you need to understand the purposes behind the RFP as well as the global process that includes the RFP as one of its stages so that they are reflected in the translation. RFP translation and localization is not always easy, the abundance of English terminology, lack of exact equivalents between the source and target languages and adjusting for register, regionalism and style are some of the main challenges you may face at this stage. In order to be as careful and accurate as possible, ask the client to provide you with any pertinent reference material or glossaries they may have at their disposal. Request on-going feedback from your in-country resources; optimal communication with clients is a key factor in an effective RFP translation.
