If you are in search of a translation service then it is likely you already know how beneficial professional, human translation can be for your business. However, understanding how to choose the right service is a different story. We have explored some of the main factors you should look for in your translation experts.
Language Proficiency
The most important aspect of a translation service is clearly language proficiency, and every translator should of course be fluent in his or her chosen language. But real fluency means more than just being able to read or speak the language; it also means understanding the structure and grammar behind the words and how to adapt them to make the translation fit the contextual requirements or your particular project. Tenses are also a vital aspect of a translator’s knowledge, with many languages easy to misinterpret if a tense is poorly translated.
Real World Experience
Translation from a fluent language speaker is preferable to machine translation, but nothing beats the depth of insight offered by a linguist with real world experience; in other words, a native speaker. Not only does this experience provide valuable knowledge about slang and colloquial terms often left out of dictionaries and language courses, but it also provides a thorough understanding of the culture and people behind the words.
Translation is not limited to linguistics; it requires accurate cultural adaptation that can only be achieved by those with significant experience of the language’s native culture. Put simply, a successful translation is one that does not sound like it has been translated, it slots naturally into the linguistic and cultural expectations of the new audience.
We only use native-speaking translators here at Bubbles.
Specialisms
A deep understanding and real world, native-speaking knowledge of a language is the first step for a good translator. However, the best translators take things a step further and specialise in a topic or sector, providing in depth knowledge of what they are writing about and the words they are using to convey the information.
A true sign of a good translation service is its access to specialist translators. Although a general pool of advanced translators can provide enough expertise for many language projects, others may require specialist knowledge about a particular sector or form of writing or knowledge, for example, the technology or medical sectors come with their own industry jargon that needs to be known and understood by the translator.
Much of our translation service work is for marketing departments and as such, our translators are mostly marketing or business school graduates that have a deep understanding of the nuances of branding and language upon the consumer. They have a strong grasp of idioms and other cultural expressions alongside a talent for choosing the perfect synonyms to communicate your message.
The best translators will also take time to establish the aims of each project, as well as any features that may require specific expertise, so providing a detailed brief is helpful.
Accuracy to Tight Deadlines
Of course, accuracy is key when it comes to translation, and attention to detail is one of the main factors that dictates whether a translation is successful. However, achieving the desired level of accuracy on a tight deadline presents a new set of challenges, and this can be problematic if you have chosen the wrong translator.
A good translation service will ensure all grammar and punctuation are completely accurate, regardless of the deadline set. Additionally, translators should be fully equipped to provide culturally accurate translations under the agreed time restraints, once a deadline has been agreed.
Beware of promises that seem too good to be true from your translation service and check out reviews online to see how your shortlist has performed previously. Also, note that requesting shorter timescales can increase the cost of the translation.
Bubbles has been in the translation business since 2003 and we have translated over 59 million words, helping hundreds of clients with translations in 200+ languages and a huge array of market sectors. Our experience has taught us what makes a good translation service; if you would like to know more, get in touch today to find out how our expert translators could help your business.
