Operating a Smooth Linguistic Review

The use of software tools such as computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools and Quality Assurance (QA) tools have become essential enablers for global business. These tools optimize the translation process and increase the efficiency of localization workflow – deadlines are met and translation quality is improved.

Automation Creates Efficiency

Once a document has been translated it enters the linguistic review stage. QA technology plays a very important role in this stage as it automates the necessary checks that would otherwise be time-consuming and inefficient if completed manually and errors could be missed. Currently, most QA tools are software programs that are built on rules and anything that falls out of the parameters will not be covered. Therefore, it cannot replace a professional when it comes to the linguistic review of a complicated translated document. However, automating parts of the QA process frees a lot of time so that the professional linguist performing the review can focus on other aspects of the translation.

Preparation is Key

For an efficient and smooth linguistic review, use QA tools to your advantage by going beyond the basic checks. The first step is the preparation before the translation starts. Collecting and compiling client-specific term bases and translation memories (TM) from previous translated documents, as well as client feedback received, is essential. QA tools can be updated with glossaries and automatically check the translated documents against them. This ensures nothing is missed and the translation complies as much as possible with the expectations of the client and, ultimately, the brand expectations of their customers.

Update Style Guides

Once the project has been delivered to the client, the terminology databases and TM’s must be updated with the latest information from the translated documents. They should also be updated with client feedback and this feedback will be used to develop and update the client-specific style guide. When new projects are received, the subject matter experts can build on existing knowledge of the brand and products and the QA tools can be properly configured to obtain the optimized result.

With the time that is saved by using QA technology, the language review team can focus on other important client requirements and preferences, updating client-specific style guides and confirming references and sources. This can be especially important for translation projects relating to the life sciences and pharmaceutical industry.

The goal is to keep adding value to the linguistic review by improving QA technology and customizing the available tools. This means more projects can be completed to the desired levels of quality.

Contact us for more information on our quality language services for highly regulated industries.