Interpreters & translators │ Sheila Wilkin │ Fiona Evans Wilkin
Have you ever hired a translator and been dissatisfied with the result? Here are a few simple tips to avoid that.
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Clear source text
Make sure your source text (original text before translation) is clear, concise and contains no mistakes or ambiguities before you send it to the translator. -
Don’t expect a good translation overnight
Contact the translator as far ahead of time as possible. Don’t expect a translation to be done overnight or even within a few days. -
Organization-specific terminology
If you have terminology and acronyms that are specific to your organization, make sure that your translator has them before starting to translate. Be prepared to answer questions that the translator might have about the source text. -
Long-term relationship with a translator
As a consumer, establish a long-term relationship with a translator so they can adapt to your organization-specific terminology and style and be consistent in the use of terminology over time. Don’t be afraid to provide constructive feedback after receiving the translation since this will improve future work. -
Clear specifications
The buyer and the translation service provider should agree in advance on the specifications to be followed while carrying out the project. Communicate clearly if you have any special requirements and make sure these are agreed on before starting the translation project. It is important to consider the type of document being translated (contract, user manual, website), the intended readers, and the purpose of the translation since this will affect the translator’s style and choice of words. -
Finally, be realistic about the price
First remember that translation is a service. It’s not a product like a shirt for which color and price are the only criteria. So don’t go out and ask around to find the lowest cost per word. Although high price doesn’t guarantee high quality, below a certain level you are unlikely to receive a quality product.
I hope you find these tips useful for future translation work you may need. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch for your next translation project.