Working Smarter in the Age of AI

Working Smarter in the Age of AI
When preparing technical documentation, the requirements for clarity and accuracy are exceptionally high. Whether it’s a user manual, a research paper, or a product datasheet, these and similar documents require meticulous translation. We will discuss what clients should focus on when commissioning such translations. What is essential today for translated content to be as effective and reliable as the original?

The Specifics of Technical Translation
Technical translation is a task that goes beyond mere linguistic skills. It requires a deep understanding of the specific industry and the terminology used within it. The importance of technical knowledge is usually clear to the client. What may be less obvious is that the linguistic aspect of translation deserves just as much attention. We will explain why this is the case and what benefits it brings.

The Temptations and Dangers of AI
Translation memory tools, dictionaries, and other technological aids can significantly speed up the technical translation process. Moreover, AI performs fairly accurate translations in this field. However, if a client aims to create a good impression and present themselves as a reliable manufacturer, such translations must be performed or at least reviewed by a professional translator.

Let’s compare. A wedding guest could snap plenty of photos, but if you want those pictures to hold lasting value, you’d probably hire a professional photographer. The same goes for translation—the difference being that words leave a lasting impression.

Recommended reading: If we prepare texts in flawless English when communicating abroad, we will climb higher in the global economic chain. Learn more in the article “How Translation Excellence Contributes to Business Expansion Overseas.”

Localization of Technical Texts is about Rewriting for Greater Reader Comprehension

Technical Translation Localization
If you doubt whether the target reader will fully understand the material, consider technical translation localization before it’s too late. Usually, this is done by a linguist, but it must be requested as an additional service. For instance, there is little benefit to having a precisely written user manual if the buyer cannot understand it due to overly technical language. This type of translation, which makes the text more understandable to non-experts, is called localization. It is the second stage after translation. Usually, this service must be ordered separately. At the very least, do not assume that a translator will automatically provide localization when commissioning a translation.

The Role of Language Editing and Quality Assurance
The third stage is language editing, which can be linguistic or subject-specific.
If the translation was done by someone who is not a specialist in the relevant technical field, subject-specific editing is a necessary step to ensure the quality of the translation. This is done by an expert in the field, who reviews the translation and corrects any amateurish or unclear parts. In high-end translation agencies, language editing is usually included in the service, so even if you don’t specifically ask, you’ll receive a ready-to-publish translation. However, subject-specific editing is generally an additional service that should be ordered separately.

Meanwhile, the language editor carefully reads the entire translated and subject-edited text, correcting any spelling, style, inconsistencies, and ambiguities that may have crept in. They also ensure consistent formatting and terminology throughout the document.

A Premium Technical Translation Works Better than Ordinary Advertising

Related topic: In Vilnius, native-language editors work to prepare flawless technical or other types of texts in English, German, French, and other languages. How this benefits you is discussed in the article “Strengthen Your Relationship with the Target Audience: Translation Service in Vilnius.“

Two Key Takeaways from the Article
With the dawn of AI-based translations, there was euphoria that anyone could now easily translate any type of text without effort. However, despite the rise of artificial intelligence, linguistic principles have not disappeared. If we want translated technical documents to reliably serve their purpose and not cause problems for the company, we should remember that this is a multifaceted, complex task.

It requires deep language knowledge and technical expertise. While machines can translate reasonably well, they do not guarantee reliable results. They are not responsible for any errors, consequences, or damage to a company’s reputation. Human involvement remains irreplaceable. An experienced translator will prepare a technical text in a way that helps the client achieve their strategic goals. The language will be smooth and pleasant to read. The reader will be left with the impression that the company knows what it’s doing and genuinely cares about its customers. This will foster greater loyalty to the brand than, for example, intrusive advertising.