What does technical document translation mean?
Technical document translation is the translation of materials dealing with scientific and technical subjects and using the specialized terminology of the scientific or technical field involved. Or, to put it another way, technical translation is a translation that requires the use of a professional technical translator — one with a good understanding of the subject matter and knowledge of the specialized terms of that field both in the source and in the target languages.
Specialized documents in the field of technical translations
In the technical field, the most common types of specialized documents that require translation services are generally those that mediate the communication between the manufacturer and the user of the equipment, like – product catalogues; – user manuals; – mounting instructions; – commissioning manuals; – directives, norms and standards specific to the technical sectors
The most frequent problems in technical document translation
The technical translation may involve a whole range of difficulties therefore it can be a very challenging activity. Every language is different in syntax, grammar rules and grammatical structure. There are some particular problems you have to pay attention to when it comes to the technical document translation: the ambiguity of the text itself and the lack of knowledge of technical terms of an average reader. So, the text should be technical enough to deliver the information to the intended reader (such as professional technicians), but also it should be clear enough so everybody who might read it (such as the average do-it-yourself enthusiast) to clearly understand it. The conclusion is that the technical translator must have in-depth knowledge of the subject matter. There is no going around it. The translator must understand the deeper meaning of the terms to make good research and a perfect translation.
Challenges in technical translation
Usually, translators use different techniques which they adapt to the required type of technical translation to be handled. However, the main point is that during the translation process they have to find the most effective ways to obtain the most accurate translation possible for their clients.
Technical translation requires accuracy and precision. What is important in technical translation service is the preservation of the document’s technical content. For example, when we talk about an assembly manual, the user of the translated document, disregard the professional training, must be able to follow the specific instructions and assemble a product in the exact way the person reading the manual in its original text would do it. Accuracy is very important in technical translations, that is why using an experienced translator is a must in this field. A professional translation agency can guarantee that the right translator assigned to the project has the right experience and knowledge to ensure that the translated document has the highest level of accuracy
Translators specialized in the field of technical translations
Technical document translation services require not only a skilled native language translator but also an industry expert. From software to user manuals to website contents, several documents can be considered technical documents.
Founded in 2009, Translation AZ has an experienced team of professionals who can translate your work properly. With offices both in the USA and Europe, we have the right knowledge and technology to provide accurate translations for your technical documents.
