5 Factors to Determine if Your Translation Is Accurate and High­-Quality

When getting a translation done, you want to make sure it is well executed, accurate and correctly captures the message you are trying to convey. After all, a poor translation could negatively affect your business, brand and reputation.

However, with so many different translation solutions available, it can be difficult to decide where to go.

So, what should you look for when determining whether a translation fits the bill? Here are five things you need to take into account to know if a translation is correct.

1. Native Speaker

The translator should be a native speaker of the target language. This is the most important factor in ensuring that the translator has the necessary cultural and linguistic knowledge to convey your message accurately.

2. Subject-Specific Expertise

It is also important to ensure that the translator has subject-specific expertise. For example, if you are translating a legal document, it is important to have a translator who is specialized in legal terminology and jargon. Similarly, for a medical document, you need a translator with extensive and proven medical terminology expertise.

3. Consistency

A good translation should be consistent in style and terminology throughout the text. This means that if a certain term is translated a certain way at the beginning of the text, it should be translated the same way throughout the text. The translator should also use the correct terminology for your specific industry.

4. Review Process

A well-done translation should go through a review process by a second set of eyes. This ensures that the translation has passed an objective examination. A review process can also catch errors or inconsistencies that may have been missed by a translator’s blind spots.

5. Formatting and Layout Consistency

It’s important that the formatting and layout of the translated document is consistent with the original. Consistency, even in the visuals, is key when it comes to conveying an accurate message from one language to another, and this can only be achieved when the formatting and layout are a proper adaptation of the original file.

In summary, a well-done translation should be accurate, culturally and linguistically appropriate, consistent, reviewed by a second set of eyes, free of errors, and with a consistent format and design. Additionally, it’s crucial to have open communication with your translator to discuss any concerns or doubts you might have.

Taking these factors into account when evaluating a translation can help you make sure that it is high-quality and effectively conveys your intended message. A good translation is an investment in your communication strategy, and getting it right is essential for achieving success in international markets.