6 Things to Look for in Life Sciences Translation Services
Using a translation memory for life science texts ensures a high-quality translation, whilst saving time and money.
What is a Translation Memory?
A translation memory is a database of previously-translated segments of text. These segments could be sentences or paragraphs about a specific subject. Both the original text (the source text) and the translation (the target text) are kept on file.
When a new text needs to be translated, the computer reads the new source text. It then scans the database for matching or very similar segments from previous source texts. When these are found, the computer will automatically suggest the translation that was used previously.
A translator can accept, edit, or replace the suggested translation, based on their knowledge of the subject. Translation memories provide valuable assistance to translators who can combine translation and editing skills.
Translation Memories in Life Sciences
Translation memories should always play a significant role in life sciences translation services. Below, we have listed five ways life sciences can benefit from them:
- Employing the Consistent Terminology
Life sciences domains are known for being both niche and technical. At first glance, this may seem like a reason not to use a translation memory; surely there will be fewer correct matches and more room for error? Surprisingly, this isn’t the case.
Documents that contain niche terminology are more frequently subject to thorough proofreading and editing. Therefore, when knowledgeable translators are used, their finished translations will be of the highest quality. The correct terminology that they have used for a life sciences document will then be categorised and stored in the translation memory database for the next translation.
This creates consistent, accurate terminology both across one document and between documents.
- Localising Documents
Localisation is the process of ensuring that content is culturally appropriate for the intended audience. Country-specific phrasing, local time and date formats, accepted units of measurement, and other such elements are key to making sure that a translation feels as though it comes directly from a local speaker.
By employing translation memories, culturally appropriate phrases are logged and suggested as needed, ensuring high-quality life sciences localisation.
- Saving Time
When accurate translations are suggested, translators are able to save time, especially when dealing with documents that contain repetitive segments. With productivity increased, translations can then go to market faster.
- Keeping Tone of Voice, Style, and Branding
Each organisation, company, or writer has their own unique style. For brands, this tone of voice is what creates a recognisable brand image. Style needs to be taken from the source text and replicated in the new language consistently, each time.
Translation memories allow translators to easily tune into the correct tone of voice for a specific organisation, as phrases and wording are kept on file.
- Working with a Variety of Formats
Life sciences domains encompass a range of subjects. This means that content can include everything from user manuals and labels to research papers and legal documentation.
Translation memories work to ensure consistency across each type of content, as well as within the same document. The software used also removes distracting formatting, allowing the translator to concentrate efficiently on their work before the formatting is reintroduced.
- Ensuring High-Quality Work
When human translators use computer software to aid them in their work, it is referred to as computer-assisted translation. In many ways, this captures the best of both worlds.
The translation memory is able to instantly recall information from previous translations in great detail. The translator can then add a personal and human touch to the translation, double-checking suggestions which had already been checked before being saved in the translation memory originally.
Which Translation Company to Choose
It is important for people working in the life sciences domain to choose a translation company with relevant experience and certifications.
Life sciences translations require not only fluency in two languages, but also specialised knowledge of the subject matter at hand.
This is why, at TW Languages, our translators are experts in their fields. We are 17100 certified and specialise in life sciences translation and localisation services. Our linguists pride themselves on delivering high-quality, accurate work.
Having worked with over 200 companies in the field, we have translated approximately 40 million words. You can find out more about our life sciences services in our case study, which details an efficient agrochemical and chemical industry translation.
For your free translation and localisation quote, contact us now.
