Translation Memory (TM)

Translation Memory (TM) tools have become commonplace in the translation and localization industry. TM Tools do not translate, but assist the human translator to produce better translations. In a nutshell, TM tools remember how a sentence was previously translated and repurposes the old translation when the same (or similar) sentence crops up again. These tools can save a lot of typing in the case of highly repetitive texts, such as technical manuals and ensure greater terminological consistency in less repetitive but recurrent texts, such as monthly reports. Simply put, TM tools allow the reuse of information that is repetitive both within a single document and across multiple documents.

Benefits of TM

The use of Translation Memory tools and software improves the translation process considerably. Many documents, such as software applications, websites, user manuals and technical guides, tend to be repetitive and are updated regularly, making the use of translation memory very cost ¬effective. In an industry where quality and consistency are becoming more important every day, TM tools contribute to making Company projects fulfill these needs.

Additional TM tools benefits:

• Ability to maintain control of translation/localization projects.
• Files translated using TM tools become easier to work with.
• Simplification of the desk-top publishing (DTP) process.
• Transition into a true content management system.

Using translation memory tools you can easily estimate the size of the translation, number of internal repetitions, and plan the translation project framework.

Machine Language Translations

Machine translation (MT) of written text from one language to another uses specialized computer software programs that input a text in a certain language, the source language, and deliver its content in an equivalent text in another language, the target language. If you enter a well-known phrase into automated translation software, you may not get the desired message. Placing your trust and credibility in free online translation services and translation software is risky. Unless you speak the language, it is impossible to verify that the translation accurately conveys your intended meaning. Here’s a very short list of famous slogan mistranslations.

How does TM Work?

1. A client has a version of a document in English.
2. The document is translated into Spanish:
3. The Translator creates a Translation Memory database for this translation terms in English with their Spanish equivalents.
4. A new version of the original English document is also translated into Spanish. Many terms and sentences from the first version of the document are repeated in the new version.
5. Using a Translation Memory database based on the original version of the document, the Translator uses this database to analyze the new document to find all the terms that were already translated in the first version and are repeated in the new document. The TM database is applied to the new version and the Translator only has to translate the outstanding text. The client benefits by not having to pay the full price for the phrases that were previously translated.
    

Making TM Tools Work for You

TM tools can really maximize your return on investment. However to get the most out of them, several key preparation steps should be taken. First, edit your English or original source language by making sure that it is as clean as possible. Second, prepare your Electronic Files by choosing a program that meets your needs in terms of document management. However, the program should also be compatible with your TM tool. In addition, be aware of how formatting your documents affect the efficiency of the TM, as well.

Conclusion

In a national survey conducted recently… Approximately 50% of respondents, of which 80% work for large corporations, had little to no knowledge about the translation memory assets held by translation vendors. As globalization continues to increase, thus resulting in a greater number of translations required, educating yourself on TM tools will help save your company time and money. Foreign Translations, Inc. has time tested experience and qualifications to assist you in performing your translations in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

Foreign Translations, Inc., is a 12-year-old foreign language translation, interpreting and Web site localization firm. With more than 1,500 native translators located in over 30 countries, we frequently translate documents that range from 1,000 words to over several million in all the major languages of the world.

Some of our corporate clients include Computer Associates, Procter & Gamble, Michelin North America, Fuji, and many more. For a full list of clients, please visit our Translation Clients page.

In addition, we hold a General Services Administration Contract ("GSA") with the Federal Government.
 

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