6 Tips on How to Choose an Accredited Translation Company
There’s no underestimating the damage of a mistranslation. So, as the demands of a globalised economy drive businesses to move at an ever-faster rate, how can you be sure your translation agency is up to the task?
1. Accreditations
Choose a service provider with a robust set of credentials. Certifications such as the ISO 9001 and ISO 17100 are internationally recognised accreditations that enhance an agency’s standing. Review which particular certificates prospective suppliers have as they vary in coverage, then match to your specific needs. Having at least one of these should be a de facto consideration in the selection process.
2. Recognised Clientele
A list of recognised customers in industries similar to yours speaks of a well-established supplier. Pick a service provider whose core competency matches that of your business, and one who can demonstrate prior expertise. Then ask for references and case studies before entering into detailed discussions, as these can unearth red flags early on.
3. Quality Assurance
These days, you can be confident of freelancer involvement in any translation project. This is fine, as it allows the agency to select the most specialised individuals for the task at hand. However, be sure that every company has a robust project management team; that you have end-to-end visibility of the process; and that all QA remains in-house.
Essentially, you want to have a single point of contact within the company and for them to take full responsibility for a successful (or otherwise) outcome.
4. Global Footprint with Customer Support
Translation is a global business – it comes with the territory. When your content goes live in a local market, you will want someone on the ground – or near enough – should things go wrong, or should a request need to be handled within a limited time-frame.
5. Technical Literacy
The translation industry – like most – is increasingly dominated by technology. Be sure any provider is up-to-speed with industry evolution.
This is the only way to guarantee a premium service at a reasonable cost. At the most basic level, translators must have robust Translation Memory (TM) Tools.
Throughout your marketing literature, there is likely to be a degree of repetition. TM ensures consistency across all your projects by storing your translations and then recognising repeated terminology, phrases, and sentences. This is particularly useful for long-term clients with ongoing projects over a period of time and such toolsets are vital for efficiency, consistency and cost saving. However, always check that a human translator reviews the content for accuracy and up to date terminology.
6. Security & Confidentiality
You will work closely with your agency; be sure they have adequate security. Have them sign NDA’s if you must, but also review whether they are ISO 9001 or ISO 27001 certified – depending on the sensitivity of your information. A data hack – no matter where it stems from – is a costly headache.
