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| A Guide to Making a Successful Technical Translation |
While it’s easy to write a short email to a foreign business partner using online translation tools, translating technical terms correctly is nearly impossible without professional support. If you want to know how to achieve a successful technical translation, follow these tips for delegating the translation of technical documents and manuals with ease and efficiency.
Make a Plan for your Technical Translation
Every technical translation project should start with a plan. Begin by making a list of all the documents that need translation. Consider what your company needs to present to foreign partners or buyers: product catalogs, machine tool manuals, technical specifications, software guides, etc.
Evaluate the amount of time and resources required and set project deadlines. Establish milestones and gather all materials that could be helpful for your project. Use existing glossaries, descriptions of your company’s products, software, and equipment, as well as previous technical translations, if available.
Analyze the Skills of Your Team
Next, assess whether you or your team members have the necessary skills to complete the project. Knowing basic Spanish from school, for example, doesn’t qualify you to handle technical translations. Without experience in this field, it's unlikely you can manage the task effectively.
One small error can be costly. Imagine the damage caused by a misinterpreted technical term in construction machine manuals. It could lead to significant problems with your business partners and potentially harm your reputation.
Find the Right Translation Services
To ensure the success of your project, look into technical manual translation services available online. Analyze testimonials, compare services, and check for accreditation from the translation industry’s standard professional bodies.
The most crucial factor is selecting a technical translator who specializes in your specific niche and, preferably, is a native speaker. For instance, if you need to translate a document about car engine parts into French, find a specialist from France with experience in the automotive industry.
Cooperate with the Chosen Technical Translator
Once you select a technical translator, provide them with all necessary information. Explain who will read the translated documents and describe your target audience as precisely as possible.
If the translator has additional questions, respond promptly. If you can't be available 24/7, designate a team member knowledgeable in technical terms to assist the translator.
Check the Translated Text
If you use services from a reputable company, your documents will likely be translated correctly, as multiple experts typically double-check the work to ensure accuracy.
However, if you hire a freelance technical translator, it's advisable to proofread the text again. You can do this yourself, delegate it to a team member, or use professional proofreading services.
Bottom Line for the Success of your Technical Translation
In today’s global market, the importance of technical translation cannot be overstated. To run your business smoothly and avoid conflicts with international partners, seek assistance from a professional technical translator. This approach ensures that even small errors won't damage your reputation.