Translating for export - a few top tips
If you export, or are planning to, you may well find yourself needing to communicate in markets where English is not the official language. Organising translations effectively can make a significant difference to cost and quality. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Planning ahead:
Starting the translation process as early as possible is ideal. If you are working towards a print or publication deadline, make sure you build in enough time for a translator to work without a rush. Having a well-planned schedule will allow them to have the time to fully understand your content and reflect your products accurately.
Trimming the source text:
Fewer source words mean lower costs. Using graphics where appropriate instead of long descriptions, editing for simplicity, and standardising wording across similar products can be helpful. For example, writing a single set of instructions that applies to all products rather than duplicating text for each model, meaning the same translation can then be reused.
Work with a professional agency:
Using a reputable translation agency over an individual translator offers clear advantages. Agencies match each project with qualified native‑speaking translators who have the relevant subject expertise needed, helping to ensure accuracy. They also guarantee delivery dates and provide extra quality‑control steps as part of the service. If you require multiple languages, an agency provides a single point of contact, simplifying communication.
In addition, agencies widely use CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools to improve efficiency and maintain consistency. These tools store translation memories which help to manage terminology and repetitions across a translation. As a result, agencies can speed up their workflow and provide more accurate translations, especially for large or ongoing projects.
Insist on mother‑tongue translators:
Using translators who work in their native language is essential as they are better equipped to capture tone and nuance. Errors from non-native work can lead to some awkward misunderstandings; for example, a mistranslated pen advertisement that read ‘It won’t leak in your pocket and impregnate you’, instead of ‘embarrass you’, due to a Spanish false friend.
Key takeaways:
- Keep it simple and standard to reduce costs and improve understanding
- Plan early and allocate sufficient time
- Ask a professional agency to do all the hard work for you
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