Technical Document Translation Services
A range of industries develop complex, field-specific documents that must be translated in order to move projects forward. Technical document translation services facilitate the accurate communication of information from one language to another, thereby ensuring global projects proceed with integrity.
What industries develop technical documents?
The various industries that consistently create and release an output of specialized documents include engineering, pharmaceutical, medical, aeronautic, and scientific. More specifically, chemical plants, manufacturing firms, agricultural plants, government organizations, and tech-savvy companies develop technical documents to share within the global market.
Contained within these technical documents are subject matters and technical or scientific terminologies understood almost exclusively by the skilled professionals working within their given industries. In order to facilitate cooperation between diverse global companies, technical document translations are an essential step.
What are examples of technical documents?
A wide range of document types fall under the category of technical documents. Examples include user and operating manuals, safety manuals, maintenance guides, technical products and warranties and manuals or guides that instruct users on how to operate electronic products.
Patents and patent applications are also considered technical documents. White papers, datasheets, product installation manuals, and technical drawings are additional types of technical documents. Before a product is installed, individuals may refer to a product installation manual, also a technical document.
When is technical document translation necessary?
In today’s global market, developed countries work alongside both other developed nations and underdeveloped ones. A language barrier is not uncommon. In order for international companies to be understood and work together to achieve a mutual goal, technical documents must be translated into the other country’s primary language.
For example, an architectural firm based in the United States may be hired to design a monument in Japan. The original blueprints, planning materials, and other technical documents will be written in English. Prior to construction, these technical documents must be translated so that builders in Japan can begin construction.
The monument specifications, such as size and measurements, must be accurately converted into the metric system utilized in Japan. Without a precise technical document translation of all materials, the structural safety of the monument is at risk. Miscommunications of material types or load requirements can severely delay the international project.
Similarly, a pharmaceutical company that has developed a life-saving drug requires the technical translation of an international patent. Scientific terminology will be contained within the document. A technical translator who demonstrates scientific knowledge will avoid errors. If not, the patent application will be rejected.
Technical document translation in any field, whether engineer, medical, or scientific, demands nothing less than complete accuracy. Otherwise, mistakes in translations can lead to devastating outcomes, such as unstable building structures, life-threatening errors in medical procedures, and international contracts being denied.
The boom in technological advancements and global interactions have created a demand for the sharing of information, and, thereby, the need for dependable technical document translation. Companies are conducting international business, offering instruction all over the world and passing along technical information at increasing rates.
Who is qualified to translate technical documents?
Precisely delivering the intended message in the target language is the job of a qualified technical document translator. Professionals working within a technical document translation service should have a command and understanding of both languages, communication skills, and subject matter expertise.
Individuals and companies that work with technical document translators should ensure the translation professionals have the ability to communicate the message exactly as intended by the original creator of the technical documents. Any mistakes in translation can lead to costly and dangerous consequences.
Subject matter experts are ideally suited to perform technical document translations. These professionals possess linguistic expertise and knowledge of the given industry. Qualified translators are able to translate field-specific terminology so that it is easily understood by the intended audience.
A skilled subject matter expert reduces the risks associated with an inaccurate translation. High quality technical document translations reduce the likelihood of failures in company operations, poor medical care, and industrial accidents caused by the improper use of electrical equipment.
Given that technical document translations are industry specific, a professional translator must have experience in the industry. Having a wealth of field experience means the translation professional understands how to accurately translate field-specific technical jargon, terminologies, and abbreviations. They are also aware of cultural nuances.
In addition to accuracy, translated technical documents should possess desirable qualities. A high-quality translated document, for instance, will resonate with the culture. Since most of the document will be in the source language, with only 5 to 10 percent of it containing field-specific terminology, an understanding of culture is critical.
When you or your business requires reliable technical document translation, count on the translation experts at Metaphrasis. Our highly skilled technical document translators are experienced in translating field-specific documents in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, legal, government, and corporate.
Our customers have received accurate technical document translations of legal paperwork, such as insurance policies, court transcripts, and business contracts. We translate medical documents with precision, including ultrasound scan results, diagnostic reports, cardiology and pathology reports, and patient medical records.
Businesses turn to Metaphrasis for a variety of technical document translation services, from technical manuals to website translation and tutorials. As a company with translation professionals who specialize in diverse fields, we are able to deliver technical document translations with accuracy for a large number of companies across the country.
We preserve the integrity of all our document translations by using a proven two-step approach: The first professional translates the document meaning for meaning; and a second professional examines the translated text for quality and precision. This technique produces the most precise results.
Consult Metaphrasis for all your technical document translation needs, and join the ranks of our satisfied corporate and individual customers. Several professionals in our expanded network of translators are certified by the American Translators Association, so you can be assured of high-quality translations. Contact our Chicago, Illinois, office for details.