Manufacturing has been a worldwide phenomenon since the industrial revolution, and as such, has always included an element of language and translation.
Whether you have a company that manufactures furniture in the UK, or a Dubai-based business that produces fine linen for the hotel industry, you are likely to require the services of a translation provider if you wish to trade in other countries.
To ensure your message is accurately portrayed to potential customers, it is essential that you use a professional translation team who are able to understand industry specific technical terms, varying legal requirements in different locations around the world, and changing customer needs based upon locale.
However, there is also another factor to consider. In our global economy, manufacturing often requires raw materials from all around the world in order to produce a finished product. This can involve multiple destinations, languages and cultures. To ensure you get the best deal, understand the terms, find the products you require and can communicate your requirements, it is often necessary to use translation services.
Industrial manufacturing increasingly requires expansion into new international markets, languages and locations.
To guarantee your company is able to connect with this global market you need a translation service provider who speaks your language, understands your needs and provides a first class service.
The following tips will help you select the best partner for your translation provisions.
1. Language knowledge and Experience
To ensure you get the best from a translation service provider it is worth checking their previous experience and knowledge for your selected language requirements. For instance, if you require an English to Arabic translation ask about previous Arabic clients, check they use native speaking translators, and ask to see evidence of previous work they have completed.
While considering their expertise in the target language is vital, you should also be aware of their experience within your field of business. Manufacturing, medicine, law, and engineering all require specific technical knowledge that a native speaker may not have. Your translation provider should offer experts in specific industries in order to give a more accurate and thorough translation.
Consider asking possible language providers for information such as; work histories of key personnel, length of time the business has been established, and if they specialise in key areas. This way you can save time and effort in searching for the expertise you require.
While there is no direct link between how long a translation provider has been established and their professionalism or expertise, it is more likely that a translation company which has stood the test of time will offer a better understanding of the industry.
2. Translation Certification and Accreditation
Another key point when considering engaging the services of a translation specialist is to check what certification and accreditation the company holds. For example, ISO 17100 is the new internationally recognised standard for companies within the translation industry. It covers the essential processes for providing a translations service.
Certification, such as ISO, offer a safeguard for prospective customers by highlighting the recognised set of procedures that are carried out to best practice within the translation industry, and outline the service a client should receive.
3. Translation Sample
One of the best ways to establish the proficiency of a translation company is to request a sample of work. This can either be a previous translation or, in some instances, can be a sample of your choice.
If a translation provider is serious about the quality, accuracy, and efficiency of their work, they should have no qualms about offering you a sample.
4. Manufacturing Translation Expertise
Translation projects come in all shapes, sizes and languages, and no two are the same. If you have previously used a Language Service Provider (LSP) for a marketing campaign, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are equipped to cope with a technical manufacturing translation.
Make sure you are confident in your LSP’s ability to manage any new translation project, and check their expertise in these new areas before securing a deal.
Where possible speak to a member of the team that will be dealing with your translation and ensure they are competent in industry specifics.
Manufacturing equipment and software is used all around the world by those who need to understand safety instructions, warranties, directions for use, patents, and so on. They must be highly accurate in order to meet safety standards and legislation.
Ensure your chosen translation team can handle your requirements and has the required expertise to ensure high levels of accuracy.
5. Translation Project Management
While you are selecting the best translation provider for your manufacturing project, it is worth considering if they use dedicated project managers for each project.
If so, this will guarantee you a clear point of contact who understands your project and is familiar with all your requirements, updates, and potential issues. This can save you time in trying to locate the right person to talk to, and will ensure your project is carefully managed with regular milestone checks, appraisals and task assignments.
Whether you are a global business seeking an amalgamation of companies in different countries, or a smaller business looking to branch out into new territories, Creative Word can offer a uniquely packaged translation service suited to your requirements and budgets.
We are happy to offer samples of work for technical translations as we understand the challenges clients face when seeking a translation provider.
Recent Comments