The translation recipe

To ensure a quality translation, you must first have the right Ingredients. If you then following the Method correctly, you will eventually end up with a translation that you can have total confidence in, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that it is both correct and appropriate.

Ingredients

• 1 x completed source document
• 1 x  list of target languages
• Professionally qualified, native-speaking translators (1 per target language )
• Ditto Proof readers (1 per target language)
• Lots and lots of time and energy

 The Method

When arranging a translation, it is important to make certain that the source text has been proofed, is correct, error-free and approved, and that it is the final version.  Only when you are sure of this can you start the translation process.

1. First, make a list of all the target languages that are required. Be sure to take into account the intended markets and countries that your text will be used in (e.g. Mandarin Chinese is spoken in Mainland China and Taiwan...but not in Hong Kong.)

2. Next, search numerous databases and websites to find a good quality translator to complete your translation. NEVER use machine or a Web translations, as the result will be not only poor quality but also potentially embarrassing. Your translator should be professionally qualified with at least 5 years' post diploma experience in translating. Of course, he/she MUST also be a 'mother tongue' speaker of the target language. In addition, it is important that he/she is either resident in the country concerned, OR, if living elsewhere, can demonstrate that they are up to date with the very latest developments, styles and terminology in their language.

3. After that, you need to verify qualifications and obtain references on your chosen translator(s) to reassure yourself that you have selected the best person to carry out your translation. You should also make sure that they have a proven track-record of working in the subject matter of your text.

4. The next step is to agree a payment rate that is acceptable to your translator, and confirm a deadline with him/her in writing. You may also want to draw up a 'non-disclosure' agreement with him/her, to safeguard your text. Ideally, this should be a legally binding document approved by a Lawyer.

5. Moving on....once your translator has started work, keep in regular contact to make sure things are going smoothly. Maybe they need your assistance with any preferred style and/or industry specific terms. (These, by the way, often need to be researched by the translator and time for this should be allowed for when agreeing your deadline.) Regular contact will also alert you at an early stage if there are any unforeseen problems that need resolving.

6. Nearly there (but not quite....) After your completed translation has been returned to you, it is often necessary to arrange a second or final proof reading. This is particularly important if the document is very technical, or if it is intended for publication. The proof-reader should be a different linguist, but one of equal calibre to the translator (refer to step 2). When you have identified someone suitable, REPEAT steps 3, 4 and 5.

7. Finally, go all the way back to step 1, and repeat the whole process for each language required!

Your translation is now, AT LAST, complete. You can be absolutely confident that it will be properly understood and appreciated by the intended recipients. AND you can feel proud that it will enhance your company's success and reputation with your clients.

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