Each company has internal guidelines on how
certain processes should be performed, what steps to be taken in which order,
and in which tonality is communicated with customers through products, services
or support.
Ideally, this works well with internal
processes. But as soon as external service providers are involved,
problems or misunderstandings arise. On the one hand, the service provider
is not familiar with the client's internal workflows and, on the other hand,
the customer may not know what input the service provider needs to deliver a
product that meets customer expectations.
This is where communication helps, as is
usually the case in life. Hence here are four tips for those who regularly
receive translations through an external translation service:
1. Text format
PDF files, image files or formats of niche
applications cannot be edited on an Ottonormal PC. And translators
translate and locate on Ottonormal PCs. It is therefore always advisable
to submit texts incommon and editable formats
(e.g. MS Word). But also HTML, PHP or CSV files are among the editable
formats.
2. Identify a field of expertise
In which field do the texts to be
translated move? If this information is missing, we look at the texts
ourselves and try to define a suitable subject area. Because this is the
only way we can assign a suitable translator. It would be better if the
customer pre-stated the subject area – because he knows his text best.
3. Flow text or formatted text?
If you want 100% formatting retention, it
is recommended that you post an additional DTP performance. Not every
translation service offers this, but translators are translators, not layouters,
no matter which translation agency they work for. Translations are almost
always shorter or longer than the originals, resulting in shifts in formatting,
tables, and styles.
As part of DTP performance, a professional layouter takes care of formatting. This applies to both simple Office files and professional illustrations in InDesign or Illustrator.
As part of DTP performance, a professional layouter takes care of formatting. This applies to both simple Office files and professional illustrations in InDesign or Illustrator.
4. Predetermined terminology
In each subject area
there is a typical specialist vocabulary that every expert translator should know. However,
the translator does not know internal terms and phrases. In such cases, it
is recommended to create a glossary explaining the meaning of non-common terms,
or ideally a list of terminology that contains translations that have already
been validated by the customer. In particular, the terminology list can
then be added to a database to ensure that the customer receives texts with
correct and consistent terminology for both the first and possible follow-up
orders
