What are the different methods of content translation, and how do they differ?
There are several main approaches for translating content:
- Human translation: Professional linguists transfer information from one language to another, applying knowledge of text and context.
- Machine translation (MT): Automated programs change written material from one language to another based on programmed algorithms and linguistic databases. Optimal results for high volumes and a limited period of time, although human nuance may not be fully met.
- Post-edited machine translation (PEMT): An initial version generated by an automated tool is subsequently edited by an editor with language expertise for alignment with the source material.
When should you choose machine translation versus human translation?
The choice between machine translation and human translation depends on several criteria, such as the purpose, type of material, financial resources, and degree of accuracy. In cases where precision and specialized cultural applications of language are a priority, human translation is used. Machine translation, on the other hand, is used to translate high quantities of text quicker and more efficiently when exact use of language is not the primary concern. While reference or general-use content typically depends on machine-translated material, content for clients or important audiences, e.g., technical or legal content, is typically human-translated.
Choose machine translation for:
- High volume, short deadlines (e.g., internal documents, user-generated content).
- Budgeted translation processes.
- Straightforward, repetitive content (e.g., technical specifications).
- Situations where minor errors are acceptable.
Choose human translation for:
- Situations where maintaining localized usage differences or precise semantics is required (e.g., legal medical, financial documents).
- Circumstances where changes to word use at the regional or situational level are preferable (e.g., marketing, branding, creative content).
- Where style, tone, or patterns of expression must be matched (e.g., literary works, persuasive articles).
- Environments managing organized endpoints and defined content for outside users, partners, or customers (e.g., websites, applications).
How can you ensure quality and accuracy in translated content?
Measures to produce accurate and consistent translated text can include several procedural steps:
- Assign competent native-speaking translators: They can support appropriate linguistic choices and ensure alignment with specific contexts.
- Supply precise reference documents and definitions: Clear source material, glossaries, and style guides support uniform terminology and avoid confusion that can disrupt accurate rendering.
- Implement a robust review and editing process: Arrange a secondary phase of revision conducted by an additional language specialist to check content against set guidelines for clarity and language suitability.
- Utilize translation memory (TM) and term bases (TB): These tools maintain use of standard terms and achieve project alignment.
- Conduct in-country reviews: – Content checks by individuals based in the target location assist in assessing local variation and wording.
- Collect feedback: Integrate adjustments that are identified by reviewers in the course of scheduled assessments and incorporate these into future updates.
How does content translation help businesses expand globally?
Content translation plays a significant role in global business expansion, influencing a company’s ability to enter new international markets. It involves converting source material into additional languages so these materials can be used in new locations. This process adapts written or multimedia content for versions intended for readers or users who communicate in another language. As a result, organizations supply content for distribution beyond the range of the original language or country.
Conclusion
Content translation involves the conversion of information from one language to another. The process includes mapping language elements to equivalent terms for target audiences in multiple linguistic settings. Outcomes vary based on translation methods and the type of content selected. The application of specific procedures and available technologies is used based on project requirements.
