Language is subjective. In this article, we’ll share how you can establish clear criteria to determine which translation service is best for you.
Outlined below are some widely accepted best practices, questions, and guidelines to consider when handling a sample translation project:
Cost
Most language service providers cap the word count for free sample translations. Unfortunately, this limited sample may not be representative of the full project, reducing contextual understanding for the translators.
Instead, we often recommend a phased approach, in which a subset of source content is isolated to translate and review prior to executing the full project. This allows you to get a representative sample without wasting resources and time on a piece of content that won’t be used later.
Linguistic Assets
Linguistic assets are resources used by professional translators to ensure quality, tone, style, and consistency. They include a terminology database, glossary, style guide, brand guide, translation memory, and previously translated content for reference.
These assets should be shared with any language service provider that will be delivering a sample translation. This will ensure all translators are working from the same baseline and eliminate guesswork.
Yes, this process is more akin to full onboarding, but it will ensure the best samples from all parties. This better serves the end goal. The exercise of organizing, refining, and communicating these linguistic assets will need to be done anyway.
Key Metrics
Language, by nature, is subjective. People tend to think of translation as a mere exchanging of words, much as you would exchange currency. But translation is not math — it is an art. Often, perception of quality comes down to subtle preferences. These preferences include formal vs. informal tone, as well as a spectrum of literal-to-liberal interpretations of meaning.
We suggest knowing ahead of time how success and failure will be measured. Clearly communicate this to translation candidates and reviewers.
Is there a formal score card? If so, share it with translation candidates in advance. Transparency ultimately serves all parties: the translation buyer, the provider, and especially end-users or customers.
In-Country Reviewers
As you prepare to review sample translations, make sure the designated reviewers are native speakers of the target language and dialect.
Also, be sure reviewers understand the assignment and criteria for a successful translation. They should understand how to use the review portal or translation management system and have set aside appropriate time for the task.
Collaboration
Translation is a collaborative process. Even the best translators need feedback on preferences, preferred style, and tone. Teamwork makes the dream work, whether it is an outsourced linguistic team performing separate rounds of translation, copy editing, and proofreading; or in-country reviewers providing feedback on translation deliverables.
An attitude of partnership will ultimately serve the end goal of creating understanding and effectively communicating your organization’s brand across languages and cultures.
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