Knowledge base

Large projects equal great challenges. That’s when a full spectrum of technologies used in software commonly known as CAT tools comes in handy.   This mysterious abbreviation means simply computer-assisted translation, which more and more often accompanies translators and proofreaders in their daily work. However, little is being said about their measurable benefits for clients – and it’s definitely an issue worth exploring. CAT tools and challenges in translation Even though CAT tools are not only used with particularly extensive or repetitive projects, they’re definitely most often mentioned while we are talking about such issues. Today we will also focus on this issue and we will present the advantages of modern technology that translate into real, measurable benefits. The range of programs available to translators is incredibly wide and their possibilities vary greatly. CAT tools include simple proofreading modules incorporated into other apps, as well as separate software allowing work with term bases or dictionaries. The latter are usually used in case of complex projects – what’s so unique about them, though, and why are they so useful? Consistent terminology – higher quality, lower price A text is uploaded to the program and broken down into segments that usually correspond to sentences. Translating every single piece builds a translation memory – you can assign it to, e.g., a particular specialisation or, in case of long-term cooperation, create a translation memory dedicated to a given client’s needs. This way it’s easier to achieve one of the key components of a good translation, namely maintaining consistency in translated phrases… which often turns out to be far more challenging that it would seem. This is quite probably the main advantage of using CAT tools, especially when we receive a glossary with required translations of indicated terms. All of these are added to a term base and a suggested translation of a phrase appears next to every segment where it can be found, ensuring its consistent and reliable translation throughout the whole document.  …

Living in the world of instant solutions, where most of us expect spectacular results, we give little thought to all the processes that stand behind successful order completion. Even though it might seem that translations are perfect for introverts, a closer look at the long way to success proves that this common conception is wrong. Is there really only one person that stands between a client and a great translation – just a translator?   The moment our client submits an enquiry, a whole process that involves up to a dozen people is launched. Translation seemingly has nothing in common with team sports; the ultimate success, however, is usually a combination of harmonious work of linguists, managers and consulants. A project coordinator, who also relays priceless information from the client to other professionals, supervises the whole process. The coordinator’s duties include text quotation and determining the deadline for a given order, as well as contact with the person ordering the service. As soon as our client accepts the price and the proposed lead time, the task is handled by project managers. Who handles the translation? The next stage comprises selecting a team of professionals who are best qualified to work on a given text. This is a challenge for project managers who perfectly know the strengths and weaknesses of their linguists. This approach ensures that medical texts are handled by translators specialising in a given field, while complex legal contracts are entrusted to professionals that effortlessly use legalese and boast extensive knowledge within this area. Depending on the scope of services chosen by the client, the complete translation will either return to the project coordinator – who will send it to the client – or be submitted for proofreading and editing. Additional linguistic services At this stage, our proofreaders remove any spelling mistakes and potential linguistic errors. After all, we’re only human and we happen to make mistakes too; that’s where a second person and a fresh look come in…