The Challenges of Technical Translations - Creative Word

Technical translations come with numerous complications which are unique to this type of translation service. Documents such as, user manuals, instructions, medical equipment guidelines, legal paperwork, and so on, all require additional expert knowledge in specific fields, alongside the expected translation skills.

If you are considering using a translator to adapt languages within a technical document, or are a linguist who is translating a technical document, it is vital you understand the challenges associated with this type of translation.

The following information gives advice on terminology, accuracy, and concept knowledge when dealing with technical translations of any kind, and will be invaluable in ensuring your translation is best suited to your requirements.

Translating with a Theoretical Understanding

Translators working with technical documents must have, at the very least, a basic grasp of the theoretical application of the document’s use and specifications. This includes an understanding of the key concepts that are likely to be utilised within the document and also, any specific scientific/technical knowledge that is required to provide an accurate translation.

For example, user guidelines for medical machinery are best translated by a linguist who has prior medical training, or has worked in the medical industry, as they would have some understanding of the terms and concepts used within the document. For this type of translation, accuracy can be a matter of life or death – you can’t afford to make mistakes when dealing with this type of technical translation.

Knowledge of Terminology within Translations

Industry specific terminology requires a translator who has experience within that industry, or who has vast experience in translations for that specific area.

For instance, legal translations usually require precise translations, but they also involve a knowledge of at least two country’s legal systems and structures. For example, when translating documents from English to Arabic you may find there is no corresponding law in the target language. In this case, the translator must use their skill and knowledge of both law systems to apply the appropriate legal terminology to fit with the new language.

Choosing a professional translation team, who have experience within your field, should ensure specific terminology knowledge, leading to accurate translations.

Translation Accuracy

Technical texts for everything from a user manual for a computer, to instructions for prescribed medication, require a high level of accuracy. The consequences of mistranslated documents can be devastating in medical or legal fields, but can also lead to mishap, frustration, or accident when in less important technical documents, as in the case of the user manual for a computer. In this instance, customers may become disgruntled, leading to loss of reputation for the company involved, and possibly a loss of revenue.

Translation Deadlines

Alongside the already discussed technical or scientific difficulties that surround technical translations, there are often also tight deadline requirements to contend with.

Legal documents, medical information, and so on, frequently require a speedy translation to fit with specific deadlines to remain within legislation, or for issuing patents and exerting company rights.

Working with a translation company who offer specialist translators who can cope with these deadlines, while still offering an outstanding level of accuracy, is essential if you wish to receive your translation within the required timeframe.

Large scale technical translation projects will necessitate a translator who not only has industry specific knowledge, and superb linguistic ability, but also project management skills to ensure the project is completed with precision and on time.

Localising your Technical Translations

If your translated documents are intended for mainstream public use in another country, you should consider using a translation team that offer localisation experts alongside the translation.

Localisation will ensure your documents are suitable for your target audience; some countries may have different cultures in which certain language, images or content may be considered inappropriate.

A professional translation and localisation service will guarantee your documents are fit for use in your target country.

If you are a translator who is considering embarking upon a technical translation for the first time, make sure you are well prepared in advance. Ask for a full list of supporting documents where available, and any style guides or glossaries that the company hold to ensure you have as much information as you can to give a precise and efficient translation. Remain honest with your client about your level of expertise, and don’t make promises you can’t realistically keep. Start with small projects to improve your confidence and gain experience.

Technical documents usually necessitate a professional translation and localisation team who are reputable, and have experience in your specific field. Most large translation companies offer either in-house experts, or hold a database of external freelancers that have industry knowledge, so shop around and find a translation service provider that fits your specific requirements.