English
Life As a Freelance Translator – Part Two
New projects are exciting. Each assignment brings with it different challenges and requires a unique approach. That’s why it’s so important to properly assess a document when a client first contacts PVT.
Many factors go into an assessment to ensure that the client receives the quality, price and timeline they’re looking for. Here are the elements we take into consideration when we quote a new project.
What’s Involved?
The main question we need to answer is how complex is the document:
- Is it very technical?
- Could the final product be used in a legal proceeding?
- Is it an official document or something that will not be formally presented?
If the document is complicated, and brings with it a certain level of risk, it will require a certified translator with the appropriate credentials to take on the project. In the insurance industry, for example, it is imperative that the correct terminology is used throughout the translation so the meaning of the document is precise and accurate. Experienced and certified translators are always used in these situations to ensure the final product is of the highest quality.
Size and Format
The next factors we consider are the size and format of the document. How many words does it have and are any sections repeated? Does the document include charts, graphs, handwritten notes or other special elements? Does the project require the use of specific software to complete the work? Depending on the number of unique elements a document contains, the longer it can take to translate. That ultimately effects the cost of the project.
Quality
Quality assurance is at the heart of what we do. Our business is only as strong as our product, so we put an emphasis on proofreading. One incorrect word can have a client — and their clients — lose faith in the document. That’s why we only use translators that translate into their native language. They understand the nuances and details required to produce an accurate, high quality translation.
Deadline
Time is one of the most important elements in determining how we approach a new project. If a client needs the document completed very quickly, we will usually have to divide the work among several translators. It’s preferable to have one translator assigned to a project for consistency and familiarity with the content. However if the document contains distinct sections, or it does not need to be presented in a formal manner, then there is no downside to having several translators work on a project.
Quote
Once all of these factors have been reviewed, we are able to provide a quote for the project. The document type, size, format and time frame are all taken into consideration and have an impact on the quote. All of those elements determine the number and expertise of translators the project requires. We work closely with our clients and go over each element of the project with them so they understand why we charge what we do, and how we produce the best translation possible.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact us! Contact
By Laura Regehr
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