In the world of technical translation services, it is vitally important that international translators have deep, subject matter expertise in the industry for which they are translating. Translators who are also subject matter experts usually have advanced degrees in their specialty field, and are fluent in the target market’s language and knowledgeable about the culture.
Only then can the translated content capture both the essence and the details of the original source. For example, in the case of a clinical trial translation that is aimed at doctors, a translator with technical training and education in medical science is a far better choice than a translator who is simply fluent in the language without subject matter expertise.
At International Language Services, our translators are experts in both translation and the subject matter at hand. We select subject matter experts because they combine experience, technical knowledge, and translation expertise to ensure your document is translated accurately and conveys the original message as intended.
Here’s why it’s important that international translators also be subject matter experts:
International Translators Who Are Subject Matter Experts Improve Accuracy
Technical translations require particular knowledge of technical terms as well as the subject matter itself. Let’s look at an example where a pharmaceutical company is applying for an international patent for a drug they’re developing.
The document needing translation will contain scientific information related to the drug. If the translator lacks expertise in the subject matter as well as the scientific language, it can lead to confusion and inaccuracy.
A minor error in the translation of a patent application, then, could result in rejection of the application. This can prove costly for the pharmaceutical company, both in time and money.
International Translators Who Are Subject Matter Experts Have Field Experience
There’s no substitute for years of education, training, and experience in the specialized field for which documents are being translated. Subject matter experts are exceedingly accustomed to the content and terminology used—this is because they have worked in the industry. If a translator can’t fully understand what he or she is reading, the translation is bound to be inaccurate.
Translation includes context and connotation, as well as straightforward definitions. Without a solid background in the specialized field, a translator will get lost in the nuance and ambiguities of an industry’s language and may provide incorrect or incomplete translations.
International Translators Who Are Subject Matter Experts Keep Deadlines On Track
A subject matter expert can substantially enhance your translation efforts and turnaround time. You can expect him or her to have a complete understanding of the content, language, and specialized requirements for your target market.
Whether it’s for a small product package insert or a complex manufacturer’s operating manual, a subject matter expert ensures that your translation is clear, professional, and accurate. Their work is quick and efficient, because they don’t have to pause every few words or phrases to research something that’s unfamiliar.
When research is required, a subject matter expert knows exactly what resources to seek and how to accurately obtain the answers. Even if it takes extra resources to hire a top quality translation company, the investment will ultimately save you time, money, and aggravation.
Becoming a subject matter expert requires more than translation skills—it is the result of education, training, and experience. If your technical translation requires specialized knowledge, consider working with International Language Services. Our company only offers subject matter experts for all of its technical translation services, ensuring high quality and accurate translations and timely project delivery.
