Translation "for information only"

Researchers or marketing specialists often need information from articles or specifications that have been produced in a foreign language. Companies preparing bids are also frequently faced with voluminous RFP (request for proposal) documentation that is not in English. These documents can cover a broad spectrum of subjects. For the person requesting the translation, the chief concerns are usually the accuracy of the data and rapid turnaround. This type of translation is therefore called "for-information-only translation." The person or company in need of the translation has no control over the source material. There is also usually no need for extra services such as typesetting, printing, etc.

Translation for publication

The material is different when a company is selling or supporting a product abroad. Translation needs can range from short letters to advertising copy to complex user manuals and software interfaces. With this type of translation, you are preparing your own documents for use abroad. You want the translation to have the same impact and effect as your originals. Presentation becomes a higher priority, and the client is generally more interested in desktop publishing and fine-tuning the format and look of the finished work.

Software localization

The translation of software is often referred to as software localization (see Glossary). It consists of adapting a software interface or man-machine language to the local language. This type of translation requires the most planning because of its complicated nature. However, it is rapidly becoming indispensable in the international marketplace. Computer and systems users abroad are less and less likely to have adequate knowledge of English, and having your software package in French, for example, may keep it from gathering dust on shelves all over Paris.

Advertising copy

Advertising copy can be very tricky. An ad that works well for the American market might have no relevance abroad. And nothing is more embarrassing for your company than a poorly or literally translated advertisement. Your agency should have experience in this area and be able to convey all the information about the product while keeping the spirit of the marketing plan that you have developed. They will, in effect, create a new advertisement that will work in the specific target area. Cultural factors must always be taken into consideration in advertising!