Importance of Human Translation in Translation Industry

Translation process always involves some interpretation, as the word to word translation changes meaning of the text. Translation is not merely about the conversion of text from one language to another, it may also include the culture to be taken care of in the source and translated information. The key to a successfully translated document is communication of the same message that was in the source document into any other desired language.

In spite of the availability of software for translations (Machine Translation like Google Translate, which we explain how to beat in this new article), the human translation is still the best form for translation of any document. Human translators carry all the processes that are involved in translations of written text, like books, magazines, manuals, legal documents, websites, product information, personal documents, letters and etc. Machine translations most do not take into account the idioms, grammar, conventions and above all, the context of the language in translating a text while preserving the meaning.

Translation Process in Human Translation

The process of Translation is not programmed like a mathematical equation or a scientific calculation, it involves linguistic skills of professionals in both the languages. The process involves the below-mentioned steps to get the task done efficiently;

• A translator translates the text into a version which confines the meaning and spirit of that text by using the accurate style and tone that is the most suitable for the reader of translated text.
• A professional editor refines the work of the translator by making sure that the work is perfectly fitting the technical expression of the subject. The editor also refines the grammatical and punctuation use with other elements of the as per requirement of the target language.
• A project manager finally reviews the text for making sure the accuracy of format for delivery of the same to the client.

This step-wise process of translation ensures that the message in the translated text, along with its tone and style, is  similar to that of the original text.

Options and Intricacies in Languages

The languages involve expressions, the words have many connotations and may have several senses. It is in fact a translators job to make the right choice of words for delivery of the message in its best possible way, which includes the creative thinking of translator as well. The professional translators have the capability of choosing the right alternatives in the target language for a perfectly translated document.

Skills of a Translator

A successful translator has the below-mentioned skills;

• Language Skills: The translator must have fluency in both the languages in speaking and writing. It is preferred that the translated language must be the native language of the translator. A degree holder in any language or even a Diploma certificate is important, as it gives a satisfaction and trust to the client who are interested in assigning the translation task.
• Computer Skills: The translator must have the basic know-how of computer for efficiently using the computer tools. The translator has to work on the computer for Ms Office and CAT tools on daily basis. However additional knowledge is always a blessing and helps in getting the job done effectively and efficiently, knowledge of photoshop and InDesign gives an edge over others.
• Business Acumen: The translator must also have skills of a freelancer, that requires good marketing and sales techniques. A freelance Translator must adopt some professional characteristics like punctuality, organization and tenacity for crafting a successful career.