Translation Speed or Consistency?

When we’re tasked with translation projects from first time clients, seldom do they provide a list of preferred key terminology translations or a translation memory. In the vast majority of cases the project schedule is more important to them than consistency with past translations or with preferred terminology.

When we do not receive preferred terminology lists or other resources from clients then effectively clients are purchasing the judgment of a professional linguist. Presumably that’s why they enlist professional services from an agency in the first place.

If clients have the ability to review the resulting translations with internal personnel having language skills, it should not be surprising if translators select alternate terminology (e.g., synonyms) for words that may be other than the client’s preferred terms. In most cases there are multiple approach to expressing an idea, term, or thought. This is true in English and also in most other languages.

Standard Terms of Service

The following is excerpted from the terms of service we subscribe to and present to clients in advance:

“It is our practice to provide high quality error-free translations. Should errors occur despite our best efforts, the following applies:

Affinity shall correct the following errors free of charge upon timely notification: (a) clearly incorrect translations of words/information; (b) omissions of words or information; (c) typos; (d) grammatical errors; or (e) non-adherence to an approved glossary contained in the delivered translation.”

In other words translators can’t know a client’s preferred terminology unless it’s specified. Use of an alternate or synonymous translated term is not considered to be an error or mistake.