Three More Frequently Asked Questions about Translation Services
Whenever we need to request a professional service, we start asking ourselves what would be the best way to go about it or if the service will be cost-effective. As these questions would also come up if you need translation services, I have prepared the answers to three more Frequently Asked Questions.
1. What is the cost of translation services?
This is an obvious and important question, but the best answer to it is "it depends." There are so many factors involved in the production of a translation that it is not easy to set fixed prices. While the highest prices in the market don't necessarily guarantee the best quality, too low a price should definitely make you wonder if your text will be translated with the care it deserves.
Other factors that affect the price of a translation are the total number of words in the text, the complexity of the subject matter, the language combination, the turnaround time, the formatting and desktop publishing requirements, and whether it needs to be a sworn translation or have an Apostille certification.
This is why translators need to evaluate the text beforehand. With a thorough exam of your text, a translator will be able to take all these factors into account in order to provide you with a reasonable quote for a professional service that requires special training and skills. Here you can find the definition of professional services.
Furthermore, keep in mind how long it took you to produce the text that you need to translate. No one should unrealistically expect the translator to do the work in a considerably shorter time.
2. Can I do the translation myself?
At your own risk! It all depends on what the translation will be used for; however, if you're thinking that you can do it yourself because you are bilingual or you can save more money, it could be extremely harmful and costly in the long run. A translation may involve highly technical matters, and these are usually best handled by outside experts. Learn more about why using professional services providers helps you grow your business.
The same way that you wouldn't just trust anyone to carry out a professional service for you, you should not dismiss hiring a professional translator who will render your source text naturally in the target language. Likewise, if you provide the translator with enough information, the target text will also have the appropriate register, tone, and style, which leads us to the third frequently asked question.
3. Why does my translator need to know what the text is for?
Because it helps the translator recreate a version that will have the highest impact on your target audience. This is essential information for the translator, as it will help him or her choose the specific vocabulary for the particular audience. If the audience's terminology is highly technical, then the translator will have to conform to that particular set of terms. Moreover, if the target audience is general, then the translator chooses terms that have a broader use.
If you have any more questions about translation services, I would be more than happy to help you answer them. Leave a comment below or send an e-mail.