It’s important to have sharp, accurate translation services to begin with, but it’s also important that translated documents be put through an additional test for quality. That’s where editing and proofing by a translation provider come into play.
These “added value” services essentially provide an extra layer of assurance that materials are accurately translated and remain true to the original messaging.
A look around the business world shows that many companies have reached markets that seemed impossible just a few years ago because they’re now using localized translations to reach new and growing audiences.
While technical translation services allow businesses to reach target markets beyond their home countries, the importance of editing and proofing can’t be ignored. Let’s explore why this is true.
Why Editing and Proofing Are Important in Translation Services
We know: Everyone makes mistakes. That’s why when it comes to translation services, you need someone checking behind the translator to ensure the utmost quality in the final product.
At ILS, we utilize a multifaceted approach to translation. A two-person translator team is assigned to every project we undertake. One translator provides the initial translation of the document, while the other ensures that the translation completely and accurately captures the meaning behind your document. This entails reviewing the translated document against the original source document to ensure accuracy and consistency in style and formatting.
What Editing and Proofing Look for in Translation Services
We’ve established that the proofreading process helps ensure accuracy in translated documents. But what exactly are those proofreaders looking for?
On the whole, they’re looking to ensure that the translation is correct, but they’re also stepping through a checklist of sorts to make certain the translated document is of optimal quality. Proofreading will ensure these questions are answered:
- Is the essence of the original message properly conveyed by the translation?
- Are the most appropriate words used?
- Is there consistency in word usage and tone?
- Are graphics aligned correctly with text?
- Does the content follow a business’ established style guide?
- Are page numbering, indexing, and headings correct?
- Are the images, their captions, and enclosed text accurate?
Editing and Proofing Adds an Extra Layer of Assurance for Translation Services
Accuracy of translated documents is key for companies looking to expand globally and maintain brand and content consistency. Proofing and editing are important steps in ensuring that translated documents effectively and accurately capture your message and relay it consistently to your intended audience.
In any type of work, it’s a best practice to have at least two sets of eyes reviewing content and other projects. Translation services are no different. At International Language Services, we understand that—and that understanding is behind our entire process for translating and proofreading.
This process ensures your final document retains the style and tone of the source file, while acknowledging cultural and regional variations and making sure the intended audience can understand your content clearly and correctly.
