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Frequently Asked Questions about Translation

Why do I need a translator. Can I use software to do it?

The results of using software programs (i.e. machine translation) to translate material are broken sentences that usually miss the message your company wants to deliver. Why risk it?

What are the prices to translate documents?

Pricing is subject to many factors are:

• Complexity of the subject
• Research involved
• Format (PDF, PPT, XLS, INX, etc.) and support (paper, fax, electronic file)
• Length of the project

For a website localization/translation project:

• Graphics localization or editing
• Availability of source files for graphics and very complex images
• Page layout, style sheets, file conversions, testing
• Frequent updates to the website content and how extensive will they be

Can your company translate HTML files?

Yes, we can handle HTML files. In this case, we need to receive all the files to be translated (i.e., it is not enough to send us an URL to the files).

How do I pick the right translator or interpreter?

The United States does not have standardized certification for translators.

Therefore do your homework and look for the following key factors:

• Years of experience as a professional translator (being bilingual is not enough)
• Formal education in translation
• Accreditation from recognized organizations (i.e., the American Translators Association in the United States)

What is a Good Translation?

A good translation will sound natural to the native reader.

• It conveys the same meaning and has the same impact as the original document
• It has impeccable grammar and spelling
• It is written to a professional standard
• It doesn't include omissions or additions

Most of the employees in the company I work for are Mexicans. Do I need a Mexican translator to translate the Employee Manual?

Not necessarily. The professional translator who accepts a job knows how to handle the differences and will be respectful to the reader. In other words, the translator will use the most neutral Spanish, avoiding local wording that could be misinterpreted by people from diverse geographical areas.

Why can't my bilingual personnel be in charge of the translations for my company?

Your bilingual employee could probably give you a fairly accurate summary of a business letter or a brochure. But if you would like to give a professional image of your company, you need to contact a professional.

Would you ask any one in your staff to write the company policy?

Being bilingual does not equal to be a good translator. It takes different skills and training to be a professional translator.

What is a Certified Translation?

In the United States, a Certified Translation or Certificate of Accuracy is a statement signed by the translator and notarized by a Notary Public, attesting that the translator believes the translation is accurate and complete. This statement is attached to the original document and translation.

Some documents that may require a certified translation are:

• Academic transcripts, academic records, and diplomas
• Birth, marriage and death certificates
• Immigration and naturalization documents
• Financial records
• Legal documents
• Medical records
• Patents

Please contact us if you have any questions about our certified translations.