The translating of technical texts needs a bit more translation expertise than just being bilingual. One of the most important reasons for this is the use of specialised terminology. Every technical term in a technical translation has an exact meaning. If the translator doesn’t quite understand the meaning of a technical term the translation may be inaccurate.
A few languages, particularly those that have a scientific legacy are more likely to have a precise equivalent of a technical term while there are some languages that may not. In either of the two situations, it’s the job of the translator to convey the technical meaning. A non-technical translator who doesn’t have a full understanding of a technical text because of a lack of knowledge and experience with this type of translation is likely to turn out an imprecise translation that won’t please the customer.
Before translating a technical text a translator needs to be knowledgeable in the following:
- A clear understanding of the specific jargon of the text;
- A clear understanding of the text’s purpose and its targeted audience;
- Be familiar with the targeted language/culture of the technical text.
5 key reasons why a professional technical translator is worth extra investment.
1 Quality
If you are expanding into new markets or launching a new technical product, it’s vital that a good impression is made to your targeted audience. Professional technical translators are have the required skills to deliver your technical documents accurately and to the deadlines you set.
2 Subject specific knowledge
Many translators tend to specialise in a particular industry and over time they develop the highest level of understanding of the technical terminology that the industry uses.
3 Culturally correct
A professional translator doesn’t just become completely immersed in a language but gets to know the country’s culture too. Failing to have exact knowledge of a country’s cultural norms could lead to both embarrassing and expensive mistakes, but a professional technical translator will take into consideration legal requirements, local regulations and social norms so that the technical translation matches with the audience.
4 Accuracy
Professional technical translators are great writers. They provide accurate grammar, spelling, and punctuation and will make sure that the technical terminology is translated accurately.
5 Consistency
A professional technical translator will make sure there is consistency throughout the technical text(s). They frequently use translation software which helps them with this aspect of the translation particularly when working on longer texts. Maintaining consistency is important if messages and information are being produced in different formats.
Technical meanings can inadvertently get altered, key phrases wrongly represented, and preciseness lost. When you are conducting business with another country, you really don’t want anything to go wrong. That is why it is always best to select a translator who has tried and tested experience translating for the technical sector. They will provide the consistency you need, the right knowledge and insight which means they will deliver a perfect technical translation that will lay the foundation for long-lasting business relationships.