Acutrans’ Document Translation Process
It might be something you haven’t heard of before, but language service providers typically follow the TEP Process. The “TEP” refers to translation, editing, and proofreading when it comes to document translation. These are arguably the most fundamental steps for any professional translator or translation service to take when it comes to the translation industry. The process ensures the accuracy of the work.
Here are some of the guidelines that can help you understand the different stages of the TEP process:
TEP Process – Translation
The first stage of translation revolves around time allocation, language pair, and subject matter. If the subject matter requires rigorous research or specialized training, that needs to be taken into account when the translator is chosen for the project. How easily and efficiently a given translator can translate a text within their field of expertise sets up the success of the entire project.
Once a translator is chosen, the project manager or translator looks at the source text to identify the translation technology that must be used for the project. Some types of projects and texts require sophisticated tools outside of the normal computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools.
Next, the translator translates and edits the text to make sure it is accurate and high quality. They use any glossaries or specialized terminology required by the client and save their translations within the translation software they used to translate. By doing this, they enable future translations to be done faster and more consistently.
TEP Process – Editing
Just like when translating, language service providers make the most out of modern translation technology when editing documents. As much as translation technology has evolved and been used in ever-increasing amounts, it cannot match the accuracy and nuance of human translation.
The editing process involves a second translator who is trained as an editor reading over the translation and correcting spelling, grammar, and accuracy mistakes. Editing is like correcting – it is very detail-oriented and in-depth. Editing is done on the same CAT tool used by the translator so that the editor can access glossaries and translation memories associated with the project.
TEP Process – Proofreading
Proofreading is the last step before the translated text is delivered to the client. The underlying purpose of proofreading is to make sure the presentation and syntax of the text match the source text.
The difference between editing and proofreading is quite subtle but important. The proofreader is looking for high-level errors and readability issues. Editors are checking the spelling and grammar of each sentence while proofreaders are making sure the sentence flows nicely and is an accurate translation of the source.
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The Value of Proofreading
Many translation agencies provide only a single-step translation service without editing and proofreading. That said, even the translation agencies that use only two stages of the TEP process (translation and editing) often fail to meet the quality standards. Without a thorough comparison of the source text, the quality control will inevitably run into unforeseeable problems.
Quality control is always at the center of a professional translation agency and these agencies always offer TEP as their standard process. It’s no wonder that proofreading has become a standard in the translation industry as the market has become more competitive; the best translation companies have been able to differentiate themselves with higher levels of quality.
While translators can technically proofread their own work, it’s best when another set of eyes checks their translation. It typically requires a fresh perspective to see mistakes that a translator couldn’t spot. A new pair of eyes can do wonders to pinpoint complex or even common mistakes that can be invisible to the author. In addition, if translators get feedback on their work, the quality of their translations further increases.
Why the TEP Process Matters More Than You Think
The TEP process is foundational to ensure that clients get quality translations. Skipping a step for the sake of saving money will affect the quality of translation and cost more money in the long run.
Each element in the TEP process complements the others. If you cut out the proofreading, the target text might read differently than the source text. Similarly, if you get rid of the editing step, the text wouldn’t be comprehensive and would include grammatical mistakes. However, when you combine translation, editing, and proofreading, it guarantees the highest standard of translation.
Wrapping Up
The ultimate judge of the translated text is the client. The ideal course of action is to seek a translation agency early on that can enhance the quality of a translation with the utmost professionalism. Apart from better quality, you will also increase your overall productivity.
Acutrans: Document Translation You Can Trust
Acutrans is one of the most reputable and prominent translation and interpretation language services providers in the industry. With multiple TEP linguist teams for each language pair and years of experience, you can expect the highest quality of translation and interpretation services.
You can receive translation expertise in numerous subject matters whether you want legal, health, finance, life sciences, marketing, entertainment, or government translation, Acutrans can take care of your translation.
At Acutrans, we take the TEP process seriously to render accurate and authentic translations for our clients. It’s time to make a smart decision and benefit from cost-efficient translation service. You can contact us now to learn more about our document translation services.