Bad translations can be laughable, infuriating or simply
incomprehensible, but whatever they are, they do not convey a positive message. Now that you're shopping for a translator, you're in a position to help create a message that is positive. You can show your foreign readers that you value their time, respect their intelligence and understand their culture.
To ensure that the translation you commission will work for you and your clients…
- Make sure you know the difference between translation and localization.
- Once you've identified your need, be sure that the translator is fully qualified. ‘Fully qualified’ doesn't necessarily mean that the translator has a wall full of diplomas. First and foremost, the translator must be a native speaker of the target language and a good writer.
A good writer is someone who has an ear for language and knows how to capture language in writing. There's no substitute for being a good writer. No amount of technology or training can make up for a lack of vocation.
- Be sure to ask for detailed specifications and take the time to review them. If it's important enough to translate, it should be important enough for you to check the specs.
At AA Nuncio, our specs include the following:
- Project name
- Name of source and target documents
- Service
- Type of text
- Type of review required
- Source/target languages
- File type of source and target documents
- Word count
- Edited/unedited text
- Localization options (translate weights and measures, currency or proper nouns)
- Demographic data (average age, education and income)
- Delivery date (including drop-dead cancellation option)
- Itemized charges for type of service, languages, file type, document quality and rush fees
- Itemized primary discounts (for volume, client type, TM segments, licensing and list as client)
The specs, which we include with the initial quote, also include a description of guarantees.
- Communicate with the translator—directly, if possible (why wouldn't it be?). Give the translator background materials, glossaries and whatever other materials you have. Make yourself available to answer the translator's questions.
- Ask for documentation. Protect yourself against translators who charge for services they don't provide (such as peer review).
Once you've found a qualified translator, have clear specs and guarantees, a clear communication channel and documentation, you've done your part to help put an end to bad translations. The world thanks you! |
