A Guide to Selecting and Working with Professional Translators

Translation is the rendering of written material from one language (the source language) into another (the target language). Professional translators, unlike people who are simply bilingual, have the ability to link the two languages, in effect to rewrite the source text as if it had been originally written in the target language. This skill is acquired though extensive training and practice.

Interpreting, although related to translation, refers to rendering speech from one language into another, in conference or court settings, for example.

Anyone can set up shop and solicit translation work. Therefore you want to be selective when looking for a provider of translation services. Look for individuals who present themselves in a professional manner and whose services meet your needs.

- Does a prospective translator know the subject area well enough to produce a good translation of your text?

- Is he or she willing to provide references, lists of prior projects, or samples of previous work?

- Will the product be provided in the form that you need (camera-ready copy, computer file)?

Many users of translated material prefer to work with a translation bureau, a company that works with many different translators. Some of the advantages that bureaus generally offer are:

- Full coordination of major projects, including graphic design, typesetting, printing, and binding

Other users find it more advantageous to contract directly with an independent translator. An independent can usually offer you:

- Greater consistency for long-term projects, due to familiarity with subject matter.

Translators exhibit their commitment to the profession by joining a professional association.

Finally, be skeptical of claims relating to the wonders of computer-generated translation. For now at least, there is simply no substitute for the "human interface" in producing top-notch, professional translations.

There are certain obligations that you as a consumer have a right to expect from a professional translator. A translator should be able to give you a firm estimate of cost and delivery time after examining the text to be translated, and should notify you promptly of any unforeseen changes in these terms. He or she should respect and honor confidentiality requirements. A translator should consult you about any problem areas and unknown terms encountered in the source text and be willing to work with you in finding solutions. Finally, if an assignment is outside the translator's range of expertise, he or she should indicate this to you and refer you to another qualified person if possible.

Your translator also expects certain things from you. Allow for reasonable deadlines. Translation is not simply "bilingual typing"; it often requires digging through several dictionaries and other resources to find the right technical term or colloquial expression. Give your translator enough time to provide a high-quality product.

The translator's task is aided immeasurably by any background and support material (pictures, related articles, previous translations, etc.) that you can provide on your subject matter. Such material can save the translator time and thus get the finished translation into your hands sooner. Feedback on completed jobs is also extremely helpful in maintaining a positive and productive relationship between you and your translator.

Finding the right translator need not be a frustrating and intimidating task if you keep these guidelines in mind.

Consumers of language services must decide whether to use a translation services company or an independent translator or interpreter. Each choice has its pros and cons.

Companies provide the convenience of one-stop shopping for a variety of languages and subjects, as well as related services such as copywriting and printing. Companies are also in a position to provide service when it is needed, whereas individual translators may not always be available.

But the middleman must be paid, so it may be more economical to find an independent provider. This option is especially suited to those with well-defined needs in a specific language and access to a large pool of service providers. An individual's qualifications may be ascertained by asking for references and by inquiring about credentials from professional organizations.