Translation Memory or TM as the translation industry states is defined as a database that stores “segments” which can be sentences, paragraphs, or sentence-like units (headings, titles, or elements in a list) that have previously been translated, in order to aid human translators. (Wikipedia)
How can TM help translators and clients at the same time?
Two clear and straightforward ways are:
- Consistency of terminology – Companies translate on a regular basis and have terms that are customized for their business/industry and must be the same no matter what marketing or document you read about the company. TM helps keep words consistent across different documents and also with different translators taking on projects for this client.
- Cost Savings Advantages – Content duplication which the TM picks up allows the translator to save time in certain areas of the translation when sentences, and paragraphs are considered duplicates of one another. This helps us keep lower costs and helps companies save on their bottom line.
Using translation memory takes caution. Translators can not simply let the software program spit out terms and sentences. Translators carefully apply duplicate terms into the document and translate documents line by line. The more translation projects take place the more the database of content is added for this particular client. It allows clients to cut costs due to time efficiencies.
There are so many people who are offering their services as translators in today’s global marketplace, but how do you find out which of them are valid and qualified translators? The internet allows everyone and anyone to enter the industry and start translating without any training or experience. It’s up to the buyer to be judge and jury in finding the right and experienced translator.