Methodology

Text to be translated is firstly counted, either manually or by computer (if electronic format is available) and a written quotation for the translation is issued to the client.  Once instructions to translate are received, the text is assessed for clarity, content and complexity.  This includes the technical level of the actual text to be translated and any document formatting requirements.

Text for translation is usually sent to us either as MS Word files or PDF files via e-mail.  If the document is a Word document, the translator can over key the original document and retain all formatting.  At this stage, we also take into account the client’s delivery schedule, which we will aim to meet whenever possible, whilst ensuring the quality of the translation is not jeopardised.

The most suitably qualified translator is selected and the text to be translated is forwarded to them to review, thus allowing the translator the opportunity to assess the text fully, as they must undertake a firm contractual commitment to Acorn Translations to do the work and meet the deadline before being engaged to translate the text.

The role of the translator includes completion of the first draft translation.  We may ask for co-operation from our client at this stage, should the translator have any queries.  This is then followed by a review of the translation and an edit procedure.  All translators have native language dictionaries installed on their computers so the translation is then subjected to a spell check before the final proofreading stage of the translated document.

Once we have received the completed translation, it is cross-referenced with the original document.  The translated document is checked to ensure that all names, dates, figures and layout are correct and that there are no omissions.  The translation is then sent to the client usually by email.

We endeavour to secure the same translator(s) as far as is practical (according to subject and language) on an ongoing basis for each client so that linguistic continuity and consistency of style for all translations is maintained.  We also keep an archive record of all completed translations and, where appropriate, will build glossaries of the client’s preferred terminology for future translation requirements.