Specialising in Technical translation

Translation is always a complex, multifaceted undertaking that demands diverse skills. In addition, every industry or field boasts its own history, practices and terminology. Translators must possess an in specialist knowledge of the relevant fields including a deep understanding of the concepts and terminology involved.

It would not be possible for any translator to develop expertise in every industry and so most professional translators work on material related to specific fields. Only specialists would have the required understanding of the terms used and the nuances of the source material. 

Due to the broad scope of technical translation, translators tend to be experts in specific subjects or industries. In other words, they are specialists within a specialism.

What is technical translation?

Technical translation involves the translation of documents, texts and content of a technical nature. The specialism encompasses many different fields including information technology, aviation, shipping, engineering, energy generation, automotive industries, construction and more.

The types of technical documents and texts that could require accurate translation include:

Manuals such as installation, user, maintenance and security manuals

Product catalogues and product specifications

Data sheets

Technical documents and content relating to software and web applications

Content related to regulations and standards such as certifications and GDPR

Training guides and courses

Safety guidelines

Patents

Online support

Terms and conditions

Brochures and marketing materials

Corporate videos

What are the demands of technical translation?

Technical translation involves the handling of specialised terminology and complex content. The texts to be translated are usually of an informative nature. Any translation errors could have serious consequences. For example, the mistranslation of an instruction manual might result in injuries to workers or worse. 

Translation errors could also lead to contractual and legal disputes that could prove to be extremely costly for the organisations or individuals involved.

When undertaking technical translation, it is vital to ensure that the content is unequivocally understood. It is crucial that the translations of terminology are accurate and that no potential for confusion exists. Outputs must be clear and unambiguous. 

Terminology

Terminology is certainly the most significant challenge for technical translators as terms and jargon can be unique to certain fields. For instance, when translating an instruction manual for an aircraft, the translator would need to know the right terms for every part or control involved. They should also possess a comprehensive understanding of general aviation terminology and concepts. Translators absolutely must maintain consistency and so should utilise the same terminology throughout a project to avoid confusion.

Style and tone

Many fields of translation require at least some degree of creativity and the adoption of a tone that is compatible with a brand’s identity or the nature of the source material. But with technical translation, the priorities are always objectivity, factual correctness and the use of a formal, neutral tone. Technical translation is not a creative endeavour.

What skills and experience are required for technical translation?

Of course, technical translators are skilled linguists and native speakers of the target audience and target language. They should also boast additional qualifications, talents and experiences such as:

A mechanical, electrical, civil or software engineering degree.

A degree in architecture, automotive technology, artificial intelligence or robotics.

Extensive work experience in a relevant industry such as aviation, construction or software development.

Excellent attention to detail.

Experience of writing/drafting instruction manuals and other technical documentation.

A degree in translation and/or extensive experience working as a translator.

Technical translators also need to be efficient researchers. Their work will involve the use of reference materials including glossaries to supplement their own technical knowledge. In addition, they will always be required to ensure that their knowledge is up to date. Technical translators must acquaint themselves with any changes and developments within their fields of specialisation. 

Technical industries are constantly evolving, and dramatic changes can happen incredibly quickly. A single scientific development or discovery and could turn an industry on its head. A significant event such as a plane crash can lead to major transformations in procedures and in the translation process. New laws may result in organisations being forced to adapt their products or practices.

A demanding and responsible role

It is easy to see that technical translation is a hugely demanding profession and one that carries with it significant responsibility. 

There have been impressive advances in the capability of machine translation including artificial intelligence. But technical translation demands the talents of specialist human translators that boast suitable language skills, impressive technical knowledge and much more.

It would be impossible to overstate the seriousness of translation errors when handling technical material. Technical translation is an important specialism that never be undervalued.

At Word Connection, our talented Japanese technical translation specialists consistently deliver outstanding work.