Technical Document Translation: A Complete Guide

Technical document translation is the translation of specialised texts related to science and technology. It is no secret that technical terminology translations are among the most challenging and demanding, so they should always be produced by specialised translators. Therefore, companies should look for a technical document translation agency to provide seamless language solutions.

If you would like to know more about technical translation, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through the standard translation process used by professional agencies. We also cover what to look for when appointing a language partner to ensure your technical document translation is accurate and professional.

How Does Technical Document Translation Work?

Your technical documents are essential for your company and must be translated correctly. When hiring an agency for technical document translation, your goal is therefore to receive the most accurate translation possible.

All reliable translation service providers promise accuracy and quality by using a translation process called TEP. It stands for translating, editing, and proofreading, which is exactly what your translation agency will do. The three-step process ensures that you receive a high-quality technical terminology translation and goes as follows:

1. Your language partner will translate your technical material into another language.
2. Your translated technical document is edited to ensure that it is readable in a different language. Some changes may need to be made at this point to ensure that all technical terms are accurately translated.
3. Your translator will proofread your material to ensure that there are no grammatical or spelling errors. Your technical document translations are ready to distribute to your new audience.

Considerations for Choosing a Translation Provider

Many language service providers offer technical document translation as a service. However, only some translation agencies should be trusted with technical terminology translation projects on complex concepts. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your language partner.

1. Translation Technology

The TEP process would not deliver such high results without the help of translation technology. Leading agencies use SDL Trados and other CAT tools to ensure accuracy in every technical document translation. When it comes to technical terminology, translation memory software also helps to ensure correct adaptations are used, so your documents are understood.

2. Expert Technical Translators

Another secret to success is to only work with expert translators. Reputable agencies require translators to have at least five years of previous technical document translation experience. Linguists should also be required to pass a translation test before being hired and must hold degrees in translation. Check the recruitment requirements of translators to ensure high-quality services.

You can narrow your search further by using companies that are associate members of the Association of Translation Companies (ATC). The ATC holds agencies accountable for all technical terminology translation projects, reassuring you of the quality of your deliverables.

3. Cost-Effective Technical Translations

Your budget for professional technical document translation services might be small. But depending on your industry, these translations can help you reach new customers, avoid miscommunications, and avoid brand-destroying translation mistakes. Therefore, it is best to see your technical terminology translation as an investment that will pay off in the long run.

Nevertheless, seek the most cost-effective services possible without sacrificing quality. Many agencies offer discounted rates for clients with larger projects or loyal, long-term customers. Always ask for a quote beforehand so you can budget for the project.

Types of Technical Documents & Languages

Technical document translation covers a wide array of content types, spanning many different sectors and industries. You may need business plans, reports, and presentations if you are in the corporate world. Other examples of technical document translation include brochure translation, user manual translation, website translation, and more.

There is then the language to consider for your technical terminology translation. You may need to translate English to Arabic, German to Turkish, English to Japanese, or English to Spanish! Reliable agencies can tackle all languages and document types. For the most comprehensive service, work with an extensive translation network to help ensure there is always a specialist to hand.

Technical Translation Services from Renaissance Translations

No matter what kind of technical document translation your company needs, Renaissance Translations can help. We have a network of 10,000+ qualified native speakers that can translate technical documents in multiple language pairs. We constantly strive for success and will get you the results you need and deserve.

Contact us to discuss your project today with one of our project managers or request an instant no-obligation quote online. With the countless benefits that professional technical terminology translation will have for your company, you will not regret choosing our translation agency.