There are numerous types of translations depending on the style sought, their characteristics, purpose and rigour. It is important to realise that, if different translators were to work on the same text, the end result would be quite different. We could say that, objectively speaking, there is no such thing as the perfect translation. However, texts can be categorised to set them apart in order to provide a better understanding of what they are. They are as follows:
SWORN AND OFFICIAL TRANSLATIONS TO BE USED BY THE RELEVANT AUTHORITIES
Sworn translations are official translations, formalised by means of a stamped and certified document, translated by a sworn translator certified by the MAEC (The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation). This type of translation includes all types of certificates, official documents, deeds, powers of attorney, contracts, etc. that require legal and official validity in the corresponding country.
These translations have legal validity and can be used in different fields: by the judicial authorities, in the legal profession, for consultants or notaries, etc. Every sworn translation must be signed and stamped by their translators; whose stamp includes their registration number as an official translator. Today, sworn translations have become faster with the advent of new scanning and printing technologies. The different companies that offer sworn translation services have adapted to modern times and to clients’ needs.
STANDARD TRANSLATION
Standard translations are those in which a professional native speaker translates a text to as high a standard as possible. These could include translations of text, audio and video, among others.
Once translated, the text in question is usually delivered as a written digital file, respecting the source text´s content and style; whether it is an academic, literary, informal or official text. The texts may come from a wide range of sources such as websites, presentations, catalogues, manuals, legal texts and contracts, correspondence, brochures, speeches, among others. The most important thing is for it to be translated to the highest level of quality possible and to ensure maximum consistency with the source text insofar as possible.
SPECIALISED TRANSLATIONS
These are translations that require a professional translator who is also an expert in the subject matter of the source text. There are professional industries that require expert translators: for example, the audio-visual industry, the legal profession, translations of specific manuals, instructions for use, etc. This entire industry requires specialisation in semantic translation that ensures that the reader can understand the text, as if it were the source text. The more specialised a translator is, the more his/her services are worth.
STEPS THAT GUARANTEE THE QUALITY OF A TRANSLATION
- First contact and receipt of the source text. In this first contact between the client and the translator, the source text sent must be flawless and have been checked over by the client. Once the text has been correctly received, the translation process gets underway. Go-ahead.
- “Synchronisation process.” Important details such as style, target language, delivery time and other requirements must be agreed between the parties. It is of utmost importance that translators know what the client’s needs are and what they expect to be returned to them.
- Translation and proofreading by native speakers. This refers to the translation process itself. Everyone has their own style. They are usually carried out by professional translators who are native speakers of the target language, who provide a quality translation adapted to the target country or language.
- Review of the translation by a proof-reader. This step is to ensure that the text is almost impeccable. If we add spelling and style correction to a translator´s work, we end up with a faultless, high-quality text adapted to the client’s requirements.
- Delivery with a request for comments and subsequent corrections, if applicable. A draft version with corrections, comments, aspects to improve and questions is always provided before the final version is delivered. This helps both parties to ensure that they are on the same wavelength. The final objective is for the reader to obtain a high-quality and understandable text.
- Final delivery, project closure. It is important to deliver in accordance with the criteria agreed to in the negotiation before the order is placed. Once delivered, the client has a few days to read over and make an initial assessment of the translation. Any feedback exchanged between the parties must be approved by the client.
- Satisfaction follow-up. The translation process does not end upon delivery of the translated text. Translators must follow up on whether this text has met the objectives set and whether the readers are making good use of it and can understand it. We recommend establishing follow-up deadlines until we are sure that the translation cycle has come to an end in accordance with specific quality parameters.
