Translation Memories
What are translation memories?
Translation memories are databases in which translations are saved. The original texts are segmented and memorized sentence by sentence along with the corresponding translation. Accordingly, a translation memory consists of many text segments (usually sentences) and their related translations. Translation memories are integrated into translation software which enables the retrieval and, where applicable, reuse of previous translations.
What advantages do translation memories have for the translator?
In specialized translations, the consistent and controlled use of specialized terminology is of decisive significance. Translation memories allow the translator quick access to previous translations, thus increasing productivity and improving the quality of the translations.
What are the advantages for the customer?
The use of translation memories produces double benefits for the customer through the improved quality of the translations and shorter delivery times. A good example here is a multilingual product catalogue that is updated every year. Several references are omitted, others are added or have to be modified. If a translation memory was created with the first translation, only the changes have to be processed in subsequent versions. This reduces processing time considerably so that the customer saves time and money. It is not necessary to mark the changes, by the way, as they can be filtered out with the software.
With what types of translation should translation memories be used?
As a basic principle, translation memories should always be used when documentation has to be kept in several languages, because they ensure uniform usage of specialized terminology and corporate language throughout the entire documentation and in all working languages.
In which cases can the use of translation memories be dispensed with?
The use of translation memories is nevertheless not always necessary or practicable. If individual documents are being translated which do not have any references to other documents, do not contain any relevant terminology and are unlikely to be updated, a TM is not strictly required.
Terminology administration
We administer customer-specific, specialized terminology (e.g. product designations, abbreviations and technical terms) in special terminology databases known as Termbases. Our translators and proofreaders have these constantly updated Termbases at their disposal in every project. Although some of the terminology is already contained in the translation memories, it is clearly defined once and for all in the Termbase. Definitions and concrete references on the use of each individual term can also be included. Unlike a translation memory, which is always bilingual, a Termbase can contain several languages. With the help of Termbases, we can process terminology for each client and export it in the form of a glossary. Glossaries of this kind are a valuable instrument for internal and external staff members whose job it is to prepare and maintain corporate documentation.
Our services:
- Creation and maintenance of translation memories
- Creation and maintenance of terminology databases
- Preparation of glossaries with company-specific terminology
Any more questions? We would be pleased to advise you! Get in touch with us!
You will find more information on completed projects in our “Projects” section.
