How To Quote and Process InDesign Translation Projects
The sequence of steps for translating InDesign documents, whether a single page or hundreds of pages, is listed in order below. This description of the InDesign translation quoting and project process is non-technical in nature and is intended to provide InDesign translation clients with an overview of what to expect before, during, and after an InDesign translation project.
- In order to provide a quote for translation of an InDesign document we first receive a PDF export of the InDesign file. Client questions in some cases precede the receipt of a PDF for quoting. Clients with questions are encouraged to send questions via email or telephone during regular business hours.
- Once a PDF is made available to us we prepare an analysis of the file to determine the total number of words to translate. The analysis also indicates if any text repetition is present. Text repetitions can lower translation costs. Translation is priced based on the number of words. InDesign formatting in the target language is priced on a per page basis.
- A written quote is prepared and emailed to the client. If the quote is approved by the client the project begins.
- Translation (language work) occurs independent of InDesign formatting. InDesign document text is extracted from the InDesign environment prior to translation. Translation can then occur using professional translation tools that enhance translation quality and minimize project costs for customers. Once translation is complete the translator’s work is proofread by a second translator as a quality assurance measure.
- Translated and proofread text in the target language is then put back into the InDesign document. Manual formatting adjustment occurs by an InDesign formatting technician. The original document formatting is retained although some visual differences might be noticed in text positions since some languages require more, or less text, relative to English in order to express equivalent meaning.
- A PDF export of the newly translated and formatted InDesign document is then reviewed a final time before delivering the entire project to the client. Normally an InDesign translation project is complete at this point, although clients can request adjustments (if any for whatever reason) and in those cases an additional final version is prepared and delivered to complete the project.
