Google Translate is probably the first thing that pops into your head when thinking about translation and it is an extremely useful tool, up to a point.
However, if you are considering using translation services within a business setting, it is probably best avoided.
Google Translate is great for holiday translations, personal conversations (where accuracy isn’t vital), or for translating posts on personal social media but, when it comes down to translations for your business, failing to use a professional translator may cost you dearly!
So, if you are considering using Google Translate for you next marketing campaign or a new, foreign-language website – stop right there!
Before you go any further, read our latest blog which offers some useful advice about business translations, choosing a Language Services Provider to work with, and a few hints and tips for getting the best results.
1. An Effective Translation for your Business Requires More than Language
Languages are complex; they change with time and space, altering from region to region and from one generation to the next.
Creating an accurate, meaningful and professional translation, which has the ability to resonate with your target audience, requires an in-depth knowledge of both the language and culture – you need to speak their language.
Phrases, images, colours, locations, people, tone of voice, and so on, all affect how your audience perceives your brand and your products. To get it right, you need to partner with a Language Services Provider (LSP) who understands your target language, audience and culture.
Google Translate can’t offer this personal understanding or add that unique human touch.
2. Choose a Language Services Provider with Industry Insight
Choosing an LSP with industry insight is critical, especially if your firm operates within an industry which uses lots of technical jargon or requires extremely precise language such as, the legal or medical industries.
Experienced translators (who have knowledge of the target culture) are great for general marketing or even website translations but when your translation needs high levels of accuracy, or has complex industry related terminology, a translator with this insider knowledge is best.
Partnering with a LSP who offers experienced translators, who are also industry trained, gives you the competitive edge, ensures translations are accurate, and that they’re completed with minimal fuss.
3. Consider Cost, Quality and Time
These three factors affect every translation and understanding your priorities in advance will give you the best results.
When planning a translation project, it is vital you understand which of the three factors are most important to you so you can plan your budget and deadline effectively.
For instance, if you are planning to release a marketing campaign in a new territory which must coincide with your website going live, you might consider time to be the most important factor with cost being the second and accuracy the third.
However, if your firm needs legal contracts translated, then accuracy may be more vital than cost or time.
Be sure you communicate your requirements clearly to your chosen LSP, give them as much time and information as possible, so they can complete your translation to the best of their ability and within your deadline.
Don’t forget to allow time for editing, proofreading and last-minute alterations, as this saves everyone panicking and mistakes are less likely!
Professional, accurate, cost-effective translations for your business are within your grasp, just reach out to our team of expert translators here at Creative Word – we’re waiting to help with your next project.
Simply contact us with your enquiry, or call us on +44 (0)20 8408 2268
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