Industry Specific Translation Services: Why They Are Important Today

One of the biggest challenges businesses from different industries face when creating and translating content is inconsistent terminology. Managing terminology is not easy for any business. Translation companies with technical translators and linguists know the decisive role terminology plays in every industry-specific translation project.

Clients in specialized industries, especially those with high volumes of technical translation, find managing terminology a common and continual challenge. For projects by these clients, accurate industry-specific terms are of paramount importance to the clients as well as their customers. In some technical industries, translated content must comply with the directives, standards and regulations of the authorities of the target local market. Translation companies that achieve proper terminology management can deliver accurate, high quality content faster and at a lower cost.

Terminology Management for Translation Companies

Translation companies undertaking industry-specific projects should understand terminology management. In a nutshell, terminology management refers to a collection of words that have special meaning in a particular industry. Language Service Providers (LSPs) should maintain a glossary and termbase (database) for each client, exclusively compiled with terminology related to products, services and systems.

For most projects, technical translation services are often out of context and with minimal reference materials. For instance, the English term “valve” can be translated into French as Robinet, Soupape, Clapet, Vanne or Valve, depending on the context. Having a clearly structured glossary ensures consistency of the terminology used across various business units and industry sectors.

Importance of Consistent Terminology

There are many benefits of consistent terminology. These include:

• Smoother Review Process. Since key terminology is incorporated in the translation company’s glossary, client reviewers do no need to spend a lot of time at the review stage.

• Accelerated Translation Processes. Translators finish projects faster since they spend minimal time researching terminology.

• Increased Brand Value. Consistent terminology increases the overall quality and brand image of the client.

Proper terminology management is more than a simple dictionary filling experience. The process requires LSP guidance and client input. Client approval of the selected terms is critical for success. Translation companies with dedicated in-house teams recognize the importance of effective terminology management.

Also Read: Terminology Management: The Significance Behind it