Kerem Arig

What's The Difference Between a Translator and an Interpreter?

"Interpreter" and "Translator" are often used interchangeably, but they are for two different occasions. 

While an interpreter translates a spoken language, a translator translates written content. 

Interpreters are needed when a conversation occurs, such as in an immigration appointment, business meeting or court hearing. They listen to one person speak a foreign language and then interpret what they are saying into the target language for the person who needs to understand. 

Translators, on the other hand, work with written text. They may be given a document in a foreign language and asked to translate it into English, or they may be responsible for creating translations of documents from English into another language. 

Both interpreters and translators are necessary for effective communication between people of different cultures, but the skills and training required for each profession are pretty different. For example, interpreters need to listen and speak fluently in both languages, while translators need to read and write.

Can You Be Both An Interpreter and A Translator?

The answer is Yes. You certainly can be and work for a translator and an interpreter simultaneously. It is not common to find individuals who provide translation and interpretation services is not very common. 

Whose Job Is More Dİfficult: Interpreter or Translator?

Translating a document is much easier than interpreting something, which you can interpret in many ways. Of course, the answer to this question differs from one person to another. But, I think only talented translators can be interpreters since interpretation needs more experience and quick thinking.

by Kerem Arig

How To Translate Immigration Documents?

When completing any paperwork related to U.S. immigration, you will likely be required to submit personal documents as supporting evidence. 

If English is not your first language, you may need to translate these documents into English. 

Here are some tips to ensure your documents are correctly translated. 

Let's start with why you need your immigration documents to be translated. 

Why Do You Need To Translate Your Immigration Documents?

Suppose you are to compile documents for a citizenship application, marriage, green card application, visa renewal, or some other application. In that case, U.S. immigration law requires you to supply supporting documents to complete your application. 

However, in that case, many of these personal documents are written in foreign languages. So you may need additional services to complete your application. 

Any critical document you submit to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) written in a language other than English must be translated into English and presented as certified and notarized. 

Things You Should Consider When Translation Your Immigration Documents

1. Make sure you use a professional translation service. 

Many online translation services are available, but not all are created equal. For an essential procedure like immigration, you must use a reputable service with compliance and good credentials. Check out client reviews before making your choice.

2. Get multiple translations if possible. 

It isn't always possible or practical, but getting your document translated by more than one person or service is worth doing. That way, you can compare the different versions and look for discrepancies between them.

3. Check for the requirements. 

Depending on what type of immigration application you're completing, specific requirements for certifying your translations may exist. Make sure you understand these requirements before having your document translated so that you can ensure it meets.

by Kerem Arig

What Is Technical Translation?

In a broadly defined term, technical translation means translating content related to a scientific or technical subject. 

To put it another way, technical translation requires a technical translator. A skilled technical translator translates both the subject matter and specialized terms of the field in both the source and target languages.  

Translating scientific and technical material involves in-depth knowledge of the subject or scope. Alternatively speaking, the translation of technical content requires a technical translator. 

A qualified technical translator should understand the subject matter and related terms in both the source and the target languages.

Understanding articles from scientific, medical, engineering, and technical journals require professional translation skills and graduate training in the relevant field. On the other end, things like product specs for electronic equipment may not require a computer science degree but certainly need specialized knowledge of the terminology used.

Translating technical information costs more than general business information and may take longer than the available language. Extra costs will vary depending on the level of scientific or technical knowledge needed for the project, the availability of specialist translators in the required language pair, and the demand. 

For example, machinery product-related translations in English - German cost more because this pair's demand for technical translations exceeds the relatively small number of qualified translators.

Here are some areas of translation:

Translation for user manuals

This category of technical translation includes manuals and online help. User manual translation requires skill and knowledge, but they differ significantly from other types of technical translation.

Translation for CAD drawings

Technical drawings require translators and project managers adept at working with specialized file formats. The integration of localized labels, measurements, and visual elements, as well as text expansion, are additional steps.

Translation and Localization of software 

Nowadays, translation and localization of software strings for user interfaces are required. Simple language may seem an excellent way to interface with the user interface. Because of this need, the translator must be familiar with handling strings being read. Additionally, the translator needs to know the user's expectations for terminology in the target market or region. Some terms may be abbreviated because specific target languages expand when translated.

Patent translation

A translator for patent translation should possess subject matter expertise and mastery of patent drafting, governed by legal and practical requirements. Often, a comprehensive claim is written covering all bases for future applications for a new technique or gadget while exposing as little accurate, unique information as possible.

by Kerem Arig

Business Translation Services In A Global Market

To better understand the significance of Business Translation in international operations, we must first understand what it is and its different types.

Growth Of The Global Market

As the world becomes more connected, businesses are expanding beyond borders to reach a broader base of customers. Even small and medium companies have taken the plunge into international markets.

This means more businesses will require translation services for international markets and operations.

Entering The Global Markets

Successful cross-border commerce depends on effective communication. The lack of non-native language skills to engage with foreign partners and clients or colleagues will be among the most significant obstacles standing between them and their goals. Alternatively, companies that recognize the importance of business translation and invest in it will gain an advantage over their competitors.

To succeed in a global marketplace, businesses need to communicate effectively in the language of their target audience. This is where business translation services will be indispensable.

 Defining Business Translation

 Business translation is “the translation of informal and official documentation that a company produces and disseminates throughout the organization.” It facilitates corporate communications by translating business documents with native-language fluency to the target languages used by your foreign offices.

Businesses with offices in different countries need business translation to maintain seamless communication. Documents for business translation include contracts, emails, marketing materials, and more. These documents have a significant impact on the way your company conducts business and grows as an organization.

​​Types Of Business Translation

Business translators have different specializations. Below are some common types:

1. Technical Translation

This type caters to various industries, such as engineering, IT, agriculture, and aviation.

2. Technical Translation

This specializes in translating documents rich in economic terminologies, such as commercial banks, insurance, real estate, and trading companies.

3. Literary Translation

Literary translation specializes in translating creative pieces such as novels, poetry, and plays.

4. Legal and Judicial Translation

Legal and judicial translations require a thorough knowledge of legal theory and terms. Important legal documents can be translated into contracts, agreements, notarized transactions, and more.

If you are a business looking to expand internationally, you can’t deny the significant role that business translation services will play in helping you realize this goal. If you want to remain competitive, reaching your target audience is critical.

If your business hopes to succeed in today’s ever-changing marketplace, Business Translation services are the answer.

by Kerem Arig

USCIS Certified Translation and Its Importance for Applicants

The United States is a country of immigrants. According to census reports from the World Population Review, around 20% of the country’s population is of foreign descent. Moreover, the most recent survey revealed that foreign-born residents make up more than 40% of Silicon Valley's most famous tech hub in the US. Many non-native English speakers are arriving in the country as professionals or students to pursue their dreams. If you’re looking to make a life for yourself in the land of liberty and opportunity, this article is for you.

This post focuses on the importance of translation services certified by the USCIS (the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service). To help you understand this better, we also provide a quick overview of the US immigration process and why you may need certified translations.

 A Glance at the US Immigration Process

The process of immigrating to the United States is complex, lengthy, and requires careful planning. A successful application requires the following:

• A complete understanding of the country’s immigration law
• The petition of a sponsoring employer or family member
• Supporting evidence
• Properly filled out forms
• Multiple government forms
• An appointment at the USCIS for biometrics collection

While the list is long and daunting, many individuals have completed the process.

Immigrating to the United States is an important decision that can change a person’s life and future. Even though the United States is the world's largest economy, the immigration process can be complicated due to strict regulations and requirements.

Though it isn’t required, the process can be made more accessible by finding a good immigration lawyer. If you go this route and hire legal assistance, choose someone with plenty of experience working with clients from your country. This helps ensure they can help you understand all the procedures and requirements, including those specific to your country of residence.

Once you have your requirements and legal assistance, the next step is to look for a reputable USCIS-certified translation service.

Everything You Need to Know About USCIS-Certified Translation Services

Getting certified translation services requires careful screening to ensure they have the necessary skills and certification. Couple that with the strict guidelines and the green card application process, and you have quite a journey ahead of you.

USCIS-certified translation services remain an essential part of the process. It ensures that your application is handled and dutifully filed so you can start living in the USA without complications.

What is USCIS?

Before looking for a translation service, let’s first understand the USCIS and its role in the immigration process.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has been abbreviated as USCIS since 2003. It is a department of Homeland Security that resulted from the merger of the US Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and immigration-related elements of the Department of Justice. The USCIS is responsible for fulfilling the immigration-related functions previously handled by INS, except for those related to enforcement and inspections.

Generally speaking, the USCIS is the United States federal government's principal office in charge of immigration. They have offices throughout the country. The USCIS is responsible for a wide range of immigration-related services, including administering and adjudicating citizenship, naturalization, residency, and other benefits. It was created during the Immigration and Naturalization Services restructuring in 1996. The USCIS also supports the government’s foreign offices through international organizations such as the Hague Convention.

USCIS Certified Translation Service: Why Do You Need One?

The complexities of language can mean that even the slightest word change can alter the tone or meaning of a sentence. The translation goes beyond having words and phrases "directly" translated from one language to another. While certain elements can be directly translated, translation is often more complex.

The translation must take into account the context, usage, local dialect, and other nuances that can affect the meaning of a word, including accidental connotations that can change how a message is understood. These intricacies are why certified translations are required for documents related to immigration.

A USCIS-certified translation is a legal translation done by an authorized Department of Homeland Security translator. USCIS-certified translations are mandatory for applicants, especially when applying for a USC visa or study abroad program. This is because a USCIS-certified translation guarantees a higher level of accuracy in terms of credibility and compliance with federal regulations that ensure the safety and security of civic documents.

Since the state needs a certain degree of quality assurance for documents to be approved, only certified translation services are trusted for documents, applications, and records submitted to USCIS. Meeting the USCIS-certified translation requirement is, therefore, an essential step in ensuring the success of your application.

Once you decide to file your application, the USCIS will ask you to submit a list of requirements. This includes, but isn’t limited to, the following documents:

• Academic transcripts
• Adoption papers
• Birth certificates
• Death certificates
• Financial statements
• Legal transcripts
• Marriage and divorce documents
• Medical records
• Passports and visas
• Police records
• Other documents required by USCIS

To ensure the credibility of the translation service you hire, they must have a valid ISO 17100 or ISO 9001 certification based on USCIS guidelines. This is crucial in ensuring that the service you pay for is a certified and legitimate translator authorized to process your documents.

Putting It All Together

Applying for immigration requires much time and energy from the applicant. A successful application entails patience, care, and attention to detail. Applicants must have reliable guidance to obtain a visa or green card.

To many, hiring the services of a USCIS-certified translator may seem like an extra expense. However, a certified translator will significantly assist your petition to move forward for applications that include documents and information in multiple languages.

by Kerem Arig

It Takes Professionalism To Be A Translator and Interpreter

Communication is essential for all aspects of human life. Our language skills help us to connect with friends, relatives, and colleagues and navigate the world around us. In the business world (which you could argue even has its language), clear and accurate communication is critical for every engagement, including closing deals, broker partnerships, or negotiating contracts.

However, what if you can’t communicate with someone because you both speak different languages? What if you had to deal professionally with a prospective client who doesn’t understand your native tongue? If you’re not a polyglot, there’s no need to worry because there is a whole industry of dedicated professionals trained to help. They are our translators and interpreters.

Language barriers are prevalent in modern society. Without translators or interpreters to bridge gaps in language, we would have a hard time expressing ourselves and understanding others. Many projects, trips, and activities would likely grind to a halt.

Translation and interpretation are a service that ties us all together. For example, global trade and international relations would not be possible without translation services. This article will explore the importance of translation and interpretation and the skills needed to bridge cultural and language barriers effectively.

Translators&Interpreters: Making Intercultural Communication Possible

 With the rise of globalization and multiethnic societies, translation services have become increasingly indispensable. Translation breaks down language barriers and makes effective communication possible, even among strangers who don’t speak each other’s languages. Often taken for granted, translation quietly contributes to economic growth and intercultural understanding.

The role of translation and interpretation is essential for a well-functioning society. For example, people leading cross-cultural projects require translators or interpreters to help them communicate effectively with a target audience. Beyond being fluent in many languages, translators and interpreters must be fair, credible, and trustworthy to help foster trust with your target audience. Delivering your message with credibility is a responsibility that will rest on the translator’s shoulders.

Knowing Translators and Interpreters by Heart

Translation and interpretation are interrelated professions that are sometimes used interchangeably. Translators can interpret languages, and interpreters can also translate languages. However, despite being closely related, there are some essential differences.

The significant difference that sets translators and interpreters apart is the form of communication they convert from one language to another. A translator converts a language into another in written form, whereas an interpreter translates verbal forms. Both translators and interpreters require an expert-level linguistic skill set and a profound understanding of the source and target language. However, how they deliver their output also demands specific skill sets.

Translators and interpreters vary distinctly in terms of duties and responsibilities. The tasks of a translator are heavily inclined to paper, digital, and written works. They convert written documents or website content from one language to the requested target language. To efficiently perform their tasks, translators should be fluent in at least two languages and possess a mastery of communication skills such as speaking, critical reading, and, most importantly, writing.

However, because interpreters don’t focus on writing tasks, they tend to have a slightly different skill set than translators. Because they process speech and convert it from one language to another, they need to possess acute listening skills and the ability to code-switch quickly while thinking fast on their feet.

Overall, the demand and importance of translation and interpretation services in various professions are enormous. When looking for a good translator, find one who has a masterful command of language and understands your specific needs.

Professionalism Among Translators and Interpreters

As globalization accelerates, more international companies establish their commercial presence in emerging economies. However, these companies are not uncommon encounter problems related to language barriers and cultural differences. The importance of translators and interpreters, who can act as cross-cultural mediators, emerges here. Translators and interpreters, thus, have a complex and weighty responsibility.

Translation service providers must clearly understand their client's needs and goals. As such, an effective translator or interpreter must possess a sound work ethic and a professional attitude to support their clients successfully. Here are other qualities to look out for if you’re looking for an experienced translator or interpreter.

1.   Linguistic Expertise

It is not enough for translators and interpreters to have a familiar or functional grasp of various languages. They must possess expert-level fluency and an understanding of linguistic and cultural nuances to localize the translation and deliver accurate messages to an audience.

2.      Soft Skills

In addition to linguistic proficiency, a translator or interpreter must possess soft critical skills. Translators and interpreters often deal with confidential documents or are privy to high-level conversations.  They must be trustworthy, professional, discreet, tactful, and objective.

3.      Intercultural Awareness

There’s more to language than just words and phrases. How one communicates is often a reflection of their cultural background. As such, a good translator or interpreter will also deeply understand a target audience’s cultural norms. This can include knowing how to address and communicate with older people or people with high-ranking positions. For example, in some Asian countries, speaking with someone older requires a more formal speech. A thorough understanding of various cultural groups reflects respect and appreciation for their customs and traditions. This will prevent misunderstandings and pave the way for improved communication.

Final Thoughts

Our vast world has grown more interconnected, providing more opportunities to cross borders and connect with people from different cultures. Cross-cultural communication is driving the expansion of many businesses, thanks to the work of translators and interpreters. Though their work is usually unseen and taken for granted, a translator or interpreter’s job is complex and critical to the global economy. They must possess many qualities, such as linguistic skills, business knowledge, and cultural appreciation. Aside from being communicative, friendly, tolerant, and open-minded, they also need to act with the highest levels of professionalism to bridge intercultural gaps across the globe successfully.

by Kerem Arig

The World of Spanish Language

Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language in the world after Chinese and is way ahead of English!

The Global Influence of Spanish

Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language in the world after Chinese and is way ahead of English!

According to Forbes (2021), “Spanish is spoken by more than 559 million people globally. Of those, 460 million are native speakers, making Spanish the language with the second largest population of native speakers in the world.”

When people think of the Spanish language, they often associate it with Spain. While this is natural, Spanish is the official language of 21 Latin American countries. In addition, there are more Spanish speakers in the United States alone than speakers of French, German, Italian, Hawaiian, and the Native American languages combined.

Spanish is also one of the seven official languages of the United Nations. Although French remains more widely used than Spanish in Europe, it shouldn’t be considered less critical. Spanish and French are two of the most influential languages on earth.

In addition to being a popular second language for native speakers of other languages to learn, Spanish, through the spread of popular culture, can also be heard in songs and commercials all over the world. Spanish is the official language of Spain, Equatorial Guinea, and most countries in Latin and Central America. It also has a lot of influence in other countries, such as the Philippines, where it is taught extensively along with English.

The Diversity of the Spanish Language

As a Romance language like French and Italian, most people can quickly grasp Spanish or already know some essential words or functional phrases. However, there are some differences with other Romance languages, especially when it comes to pronunciation. There are even differences within the Spanish language itself.

That’s because Spanish has many variations, which depend on the countries in which they are spoken. This means a Spanish-speaking person in Mexico may use different vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation than a Spanish-speaking person from Spain. For example, in Mexico, the Spanish word for “potato” is “papa.” In Spain, they say “patata.” Meanwhile, in Equatorial Guinea, Spanish speakers may sometimes interchange or not use prepositions.

As one of the world’s most widely spoken languages and with so many nuances, non-Spanish speakers may need the help of quality Spanish translation services, especially if they’re looking to expand internationally.

The Key to Seamless Multilingual Communication: Translation Services

Fluency in the Spanish language, alongside other foreign languages such as Chinese, is an essential element in the internationalization of the business marketplace. Seamless business communications across different languages will translate into smoother and more effective operations and can open doors to new and exciting markets. This is why professional translation services are constantly in demand and rising in the 21st century.

However, whether you’re translating training manuals, e-mail communications, legal transactions, or business contracts, simply being “familiar” with Spanish won’t be enough to produce relevant and linguistically accurate translations effectively.

Given the prominence of Spanish across Europe, Africa, North America, and South America, the market for Spanish speakers is colossal. To penetrate this market, translation services will be the key to connecting a Spanish-speaking target audience with you.

Localization: Importance of the Human Touch in Translation

It’s normal for business owners and entrepreneurs to have apprehensions and doubts when choosing the correct Spanish translation service, or any translation service, for that matter. After all, handing over confidential and vital documents can entail trusting someone else to speak and listen for you. Business is already risky, and you cannot afford to recklessly take even more risks without testing the waters first. One option is to invest in translation software instead of hiring a translation service. However, there is a significant difference in the accuracy, quality, and value of machine translation software compared to a human translation company. This gap can accelerate or hamper your business’s internationalization efforts.

Language is critical in international business and community relations—it’s inseparable from culture. While there are many commonalities between Spanish-speaking cultures, some differences can often lead to hilarious or even offensive accidents in translation.

Professional translation service companies will have the proper training, expertise, and awareness of cultural and linguistic nuances when translating documents to protect you from these bloopers. Unlike translation software, human translators can localize translations,, or put them into cultural context, to ensure that your translations go beyond automatic word-for-word conversions and accurately convey your message and content in a way that resonates with a specific audience.

Suppose you’re ready to expand your market reach to Spanish-speaking countries and are looking for a translation service. In that case, finding one with the expertise you need to handle your business communications will be advantageous. Because Spanish has such wide varieties, look for a translation service specializing in the type you need or multiple combinations.

The Bottom Line

Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world, with speakers spread out all over the globe. Thanks to the internet and globalization, communicating effectively across cultures and national borders will become increasingly crucial for businesses looking to internationalize their markets and operations as the world becomes even more interconnected. Translation services can help remove one of the most significant barriers to getting your message across: language.

Regardless of your industry or location, you’re likely to encounter the need for Spanish translation services at some point. While translation projects often require high sensitivity and expertise, they should not cost you the earth.

Whether you’re looking for a translating service to translate a single personal document from Spanish to English or have partnered with a professional translation service as part of a long-term business strategy, remember that engaging the right company will play an essential role in helping you reach your goals.

by Kerem Arig

Why Translation Localization is Critical in International Business

Communication is vital in international business, but to make headway into a specific market and distinguish oneself from competitors, one must speak in “the language of the people.” This entails translating one’s messages from one language to another to market your products and services, for example, and also considering cultural aspects and adapting your message and how you deliver it. Hence, it resonates with your audience in a more impactful way.

As the world becomes more connected through global supply chains, e-commerce, and increasing access to the Internet, businesses need to become savvier about international communication. In light of this, translation localization has become a precious tool in international business and marketing.

Understanding Translation Localization

What exactly is translation localization, and how can it help a business successfully internationalize its products or services?

To answer the first question, it’s helpful to understand the interrelated yet separate terms “translation” and “localization.”

Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines translation as the act of “rendering from one language into another.” The translation aims to convey the meaning of the source-language text into the equivalent of a target-language text. Indeed, translation is essential to growing a business in the international market. For example, companies will typically need to translate manuals, warranties, advertisements, and packaging. However, translating a message without taking cultural differences into account can quickly change the meaning of a message and reduce its impact. This is where localization comes in.

Cambridge Dictionary defines localization as “the process of organizing a business or industry so that its main activities happen in local areas rather than nationally or internationally.” Simply, it’s about adapting a product or service to a particular language, country, or culture.

Unlike mere translation, the localization process goes beyond simple word-by-word and focuses on adapting content and messages to local culture. This can mean changing details to fit the cultural norms of a target audience, including through the presentation of:

1. Date formatting
2. Currency conversion
3. Phone numbers
4. Imagery

Businesses that neglect localization may set themselves up to be misunderstood and misinterpreted. Beyond losing potential customers, this can also lead to a poor reputation in a particular location and severely cripple your business plans there.

Translation Localization in Action

Many companies have begun to implement translation localization strategies to go global. They can be as simple as modifying website content and language so that it appeals to a particular culture. For example, businesses can reorganize and refine their websites, connecting on a deeper level with an audience in one location, and adapting it again to connect with an audience in another place.

Localization strategies can also go deeper. One example is when fast food companies introduce specific products, such as “rice meals” or versions of popular dishes in one country to suit cultural tastes which aren’t offered in other countries.

However, many companies have also experienced missteps in localizing products or services. These usually arise when strategies are implemented without a deep understanding of a specific culture’s expectations and preferences. To ensure the success of your localization efforts, start from a place of respect for the culture.

The Critical Role of Translation Localization in International Business

 Now that we understand the difference between translation and localization and the meaning and purpose of translation localization let’s examine how translation localization can help your business penetrate and sustain a presence in international markets.

To compete internationally, your business, of course, needs a global presence. When you enter international markets, you must ensure you are building critical relationships with local partners and stakeholders. Knowing how to manage the delivery and content of your message across frontiers to create a strong and meaningful path to customer loyalty will be critical to international expansion. Thus, the importance of translation localization cannot be overstated.

The need for translation localization is increasing as more companies become involved in global communications. A survey conducted by CSA Research reported that over 70% of shoppers who shop at non-localized websites said they wished the website used their local language. Additionally, the survey showed that most people respond more positively to information, advertisements, and product descriptions in their native language.

Translation Localization is a Strategic Marketing Tool

Translation localization is crucial to the success of international businesses and can significantly impact consumers’ decision-making and perceptions of a brand. By leveraging an understanding of cultural nuances and references, companies can more strategically create customized and relevant customer experiences.

Companies must also understand that translation should not be a “one size fits all” process. Instead, it should be an individualized process that intentionally serves each culture to which it is applied. Translations must be adapted to the target audience's culture if they hope to communicate and engage meaningfully.

This makes translation localization a critical element in achieving your international marketplace objectives. The effectiveness and impact of your message can be significantly undermined when it is presented in a format or package that is not culturally relevant or feels alien to your audience. Here are some key elements that should be considered when localizing content:

1. Colors and images
2. Flow
3. Vernacular equivalent expression
4. Industry terminology
5. Cultural norms

In a Nutshell: Localize to Internationalize

Language is deeply rooted in local customs. It reflects a culture’s history, attitudes, beliefs, and instincts. However, localization is not simply academically translating words from one language to another. It requires a strong, almost emotional understanding of the target language, culture, and tone.

Businesses looking to crack international markets and expand brand awareness and customer relationships should identify culturally relevant references to increase their relevance to new clients. Localization is vital to international business as it can help you reach new customers, connect with them, and provide an experience that makes them feel your products and services are specifically catered to their needs.

by Kerem Arig

The Role Of A Project Manager In Translation Projects

Project management is a large category in terms of skill set. A good translation Project Manager (or PM for short) will have the skills and knowledge of the industry to complete your project timely, handling all sorts of issues behind the scenes to relieve you of any worry about the project's success.

In this post, we’ll analyze the role of the translation PM to explain how having an excellent PM to coordinate your project can give you peace of mind through exceptional quality in your deliverables.

But what does a translation PM do?

Analyze Source Documents
The first step in a translation project is to reach out to your PM and send over the files you’d like to have translated. These can range from simple Word documents to complex design files. Your PM will analyze the files and ask relevant questions: What languages and locales do you need? Do the images need to be recreated? Does this video require voice-over and subtitling? They may even ask questions regarding the target audience you’re hoping to reach. The PM will know which questions to ask to create the project plan.

Create a Project Plan

After analyzing the source files, PM can create a specific project plan unique to the project’s needs. PM begins reaching out to different resources, calculating timelines, choosing the most related teams regarding skill sets and language pairs, and much more! Once the project plan is created, PM will send over a quote and wait for approval before getting started.

Walk The Client Through The Process And Explain Industry Terminology If Needed

The PM Team should walk you through their quotes and explain differences within terminology (editing vs. proofreading, phrase-sync subtitles vs. UN-style subtitles, what is a translation memory, and why it is important to me? etc.). Your PM is like a part of your team!

Check Final Work Before Delivery

After every project, your PM will perform their quality assurance step before delivering the final files to you. PM will ensure that the final files will adhere to the scope of the project, and unless otherwise specified, they will be a 1-to-1 comparison of the source files you submitted at the beginning of the project. A PM will be looking for issues like sentences that are missing punctuation, text that is cut off, or the right images on the correct pages according to the source files. A PM may even notice a typo in the source files, and they’ll be sure to let you know. This is the last step before the files are finalized and sent to you.

Final Thoughts

A dedicated PM is critical to the success of your translation projects. They are essential in every step of the translation process to deliver what is needed for your project. Your PM is a vital resource to bring your translation projects to reality.

by Kerem Arig