Translating any type of document can be a challenge, but technical texts can be even more difficult. Documents such as instruction manuals, user guides, medical documents, court records or any type of technical or scientific text require not only an accurate translation of the language used, but also a deep understanding of the terminology and some of the concepts involved. Whether you’re about to hire a linguist to translate your documentation or you’re a translator about to take on a technical text, it’s important to understand the specific challenges these documents present.
conceptual understanding
A translator working on any type of technical or scientific text must have at least a basic understanding of the concept being discussed. This requires some experience in the field or experience translating work generated by professionals in the same industry. A linguist with a background in the medical field, for example, would be much more likely to have a basic understanding of some of the concepts set forth in the medical literature.
Knowledge of terminology
Translation of industry-specific terminology also requires a linguist who has experience working in that industry or experience translating texts in that field. This is particularly true for the medical and legal industries, for example, each of which involves terminology that may be totally unfamiliar to someone with no experience in those fields.
Accuracy is paramount
Whether the technical text is a service guide for a lawn mower or a set of patient instructions on prescription drugs, complete accuracy is absolutely vital for technical and scientific texts. Without a doubt, the potential consequences of a poorly translated document can be devastating in the medical and legal fields. But even with less heavy text, like the lawnmower service guide we mentioned earlier, a poorly translated document can lead to customer frustration, at the very least, and that, in turn, can damage your company’s reputation and reputation. even mean the loss of customer confidence. business in the future.
Meet deadline expectations
Most technical or scientific texts that require translation come with a firm deadline, which means it is extremely important to work with a linguist who can provide high-quality translations within the required timeframe. This becomes an even bigger problem when the text is quite long, like an operator’s manual for example. For these types of large-scale projects, the translator will not only need experience as a linguist within the specific industry, but also project management skills that ensure the completion of the text before the deadline.
Translate for the global market
If your translated document is intended for use in another country, you will need the services of a translator who is also an expert in localization. In a nutshell, localization involves making sure the text is appropriate for the target audience, some of whom may come from different cultures and backgrounds. Certain languages and images may be inappropriate in other cultures, and the translator must be familiar enough with the target audience to be able to identify and modify the language and images appropriately.
If you’re a translator preparing to take on a technical or scientific job, make sure you’re up for the task. Consider everything that is required for your success. Start with smaller projects, if possible, and always be honest with your client about your level of experience.
If you are looking for a competent linguist with the experience you need to translate your technical documents, we recommend that you rely on the services of a reputable translation company. Not only can they connect you with a professional translator with the right experience; They can also “verify” that person for you, making sure they have a proven track record of successful projects completed on time for satisfied clients.