Translation Quality Checklist
Basic checklist to ensure translation quality
While translation quality can somewhat be assured with the engagement of well-qualified and competent native speaking translators to translate the content and a second linguist to edit & proofread the translations, what extra steps can a translation company in Singapore do to ensure that all outgoing translation jobs are in tip-top condition before releasing them to clients?
We have listed some items here:
Know the Source Document
• What is the source language?
• What is the subject field? (e.g. medicine, law, chemical)
• What is the document type? (e.g. article, user manual, presentation)
• What is the format? (e.g. MS Word, MS Excel, HTML, Powerpoint)
• Do the graphics need localization?
• Are there reference materials?
• Are there glossaries to be used?
• Are there any copyright or confidentiality issues?
Know the Target Audience
• Who is the target audience?
• What is the target locale (is it Simplified Chinese for China, Simplified Chinese for Singapore or Traditional Chinese for Taiwan? Simply saying Chinese is not enough)
• What is the purpose of the translation?
• Is it necessary to do a back translation?
• Should currencies, date and time formats, units of measurement, and names be retained or replaced with cultural equivalents?
Know the Deliverables
• What is the preferred delivery format?
• What is the preferred mode of delivery?
• Is certification required?
Define the Procedures
• What is the client’s preferred mode of communication?
• Will there be a client internal review? If so, how will the review comments be implemented?
• Are there specific translation tools to be used?
Timing
• What is the deadline of the translation project?