Ways to utilize CAT tools for translation
How essential handling termbases (TB) and translation memories (TM) is for translation project management
Article by Sunwook Kim, Project Manager (PM) of Flitto Localization
As the global market continues to expand, it has become increasingly important to implement consistent localization over multiple projects. In response to this need, the use of translation management tools, specifically the computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, along with appropriate quality assurance (QA) tools, has become crucial.
CAT tools for translation are software that are tailored to streamline the translation process. They display both the source and target languages on a single screen, creating a user-friendly environment. These CAT tools also provide features such as translation memory and terminology management, which help maintain consistency throughout the translation process.
Important features in CAT tools for translation
Termbase (TB)
The termbase, or simply called TB, is a contraction for “terminology database.” As the name suggests, it refers to the glossary of terms that require attention in translation, as they can be challenging to maintain consistency due to frequent appearance in the source text, or they need to reflect some project-specific definition.
The termbase is a key aspect when utilizing CAT tools for translation. What the termbase does is establishing a glossary of important words in the translation project, so it is essential to pre-identify the content during the initial stages to extract these key terms.
The termbase is then built based on a list of frequently used terms. This process also requires localization project managers to confirm the termbase list with the client. As the project progresses, additional terms will be added to the termbase. The benefit of termbase is that it ensures not only consistency but also expertise and reliability.
For example, let’s consider the word “signature.” In documents such as contracts or agreements, it is translated as “서명”, the word’s Korean equivalent. However, when referring to a product, it is often phonetically translated as “시그니처” (read as “si-geu-ni-cheo”). The project’s termbase would now contain two types of usages of the term.
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Similarly, when translating manuals or SOPs for specific product categories, there are terms such as “machine,” “device,” and “equipment.” These terms can be translated similarly depending on the target language and can cause confusion for the translators in the project. Defining these terms in advance using a termbase in the CAT tool for translation helps avoid confusion during the process and enables the resulting translations to align with the industry, domain, and type of the source files.
Translation memory (TM)
As work progresses, accumulated translations are stored and managed in a translation memory or a TM. Translation memory is an important feature included in CAT tools for translation where previously translated texts are displayed on the screen as a reference. When translating similar sentences in a sequence, this function greatly helps increase productivity. It is effective when working on manuals with repetitive sentences or projects where partial versions are updated.
Categorizing translation memories per client names or project types using CAT tools for translation enables the maintenance of consistency in long-term or large-scale projects. Furthermore, they help retain key terminologies even during content update periods or when there are changes in client representatives or project managers.
As we accumulate and update translation memories, the stored translation data contributes to long-term cost savings. In other words, clients can obtain high-quality outputs at a more economical price.
Benefits from the client’s perspective
Translation memories should be managed and categorized for each client, ensuring that each file remains separate and is not mixed or used interchangeably. When utilizing AI-based translation or MT (Machine Translation) powered by big data, there is a concern that content from multiple clients may get mixed. Therefore, having a project manager responsible for TM management offers advantages in terms of security. By meticulously archiving translations for each client and content, and ensuring comprehensive individual management, translation agencies not only differentiate clients but also actively contribute to their branding effort.
TB and TM for quality assurance (QA)
During the quality assurance (QA) process, project managers use both termbase (TB) and translation memories (TM). They understand the appropriate usage of terminology in line with the context and verify its consistency. A dedicated QA specialist with years of expertise thoroughly examines even the smallest details.
Wrapping up…
The effective utilization of CAT tools for translation is a crucial aspect in Flitto Localization’s project processes. It not only helps streamline the project processes, but also optimizes cost and time for the clients.
As a trusted localization partner for over 2,500 clients around the world, Flitto Localization is dedicated in helping them grow and expand in the global market through these efficient data management, strong client relations, and effective workflow processes.
