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Your Contribution
The translation of a document is just one of many steps in its production. And like its texting, layouting, reviewing, typesetting, proofreading and printing or online publication, it takes time, resources and expertise.
It is therefore important to allow for translation in the documentation process and include the translator in the document production chain.
Here is a list of things you can do to maximize the value added by your translation vendor.
| Applying just half of these suggestions will significantly improve your chances of getting a translation that works! |
 Write with translation in mind
- A good translation starts with good source text! (see also
 here)
- Write in an unambiguous style.
- Avoid using idiomatic expressions and jargon.
- Avoid analogies and cultural, political or religious references that may be specific to a particular country or culture.
- Use consistent technical terminology.
- Don’t use abbreviations without defining what they stand for unless you are sure they will be understood.
- Be aware that text may expand in translation, and account for this in the layout of your documents.
- Use format and quality checking software (see the software page).
For a list of free online style guides, as well as advice on creating your own in-house guide, see the Style Guides page.
Choose the right translation vendor 
See Buying Translations.
Provide a project brief
For each translation project, specify at least the following:
- The target readership (the general public, subject experts, prospective clients, etc.)
- Will the translation be used for information only (inbound – for personal/internal use only) or publication (outbound – sales literature, user manuals, tenders, etc.)
- The delivery deadline for the draft and/or the final copy
- The method of presentation/delivery (e-mail, fax, CD-ROM, file format, special formatting, etc.)
Project management
- Allow sufficient time for the translation: plan it well in advance.
- If possible, avoid starting translation before the original text is completed: last minute changes can prove costly.
- Provide assistance: appoint a contact person who can answer any questions the translator may have. Remember that no-one knows your products and services better than you, and you may be the translator’s best source of information.
Provide the required information
Provide the translator with as much background information as possible. This is always useful, often essential, and may include:
- Related drawings
- Previous translations
- Glossaries
- Other published information about the product
- The address of your company’s website
Provide feedback
- Provide feedback: an expert evaluation of the translation will improve all subsequent work.
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Your Contribution
