In technical translations, content is king, but format is the crown!
Have you ever found yourself trying to start a newly bought smartwatch? If so, then chances are that you were assisted by a printed manual written in your native or preferred language, thanks to professional technical translations. However, what happens when the user manual is in digital format or, worse, in a format that cannot be opened or read properly?
In this blog, we will explore the role of suitable file formats in technical translation, as precision is not always about the correct words but also about the format used!
Why File Formats Matter in Technical Translations?
Translating technical content like user manuals and compliance reports is fundamentally different than translating traditional content like marketing materials. While high accuracy is needed, technical content is often complex, filled with jargon, and laid out in a uniform structure. These elements underscore the need for proper formatting after translations, making the file format used as vital as the language.
Suitable file formats are essential for high-quality technical translations because
- Advanced computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools often need easily editable formats to analyze and store translations.
- The usability of the technical document heavily relies on the layout. For example, a translated medical report of a patient with misaligned tables will not be useful to the doctor.
- Incompatible formats can result in a higher turnaround time for the translation agency. They can also increase the risk of errors in the translated content.
- Different industries prefer specific file formats. For instance, the documentation page for a software API uses HTML, while the safety manual of a heavy machine uses DOCX or PDF.
So, during professional technical translations, formats aren’t just an element but a vital part of the conversion process.
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What Are Some Common File Formats Used in Technical Translations?
Although several file formats are used for technical content and their translations, there are some that stand out from the rest, be it for their flexibility or rigidity.
- DOCX: Word files are often used in technical translations. They are flexible, compatible with several CAT tools, and easy to edit. However, in several cases, documents need to be reformatted during translations. This includes tables, charts, or other tabs. Furthermore, in visually rich documents, translations are done using desktop publishing services to ensure the original layout is preserved.
However, DTP services don’t just preserve the original layout; they also offer it in multiple languages. Are you curious to explore how DTP services maintain flawless accuracy? Check out this blog: DTP Services: How to Create Accurate Multilingual Content?
- XLS/XLSX: Excel files are essentially used for structured data, such as inventories and compliance matrices. However, this structured data comes with its own set of formatting challenges. Every cell needs to be processed separately in CAT tools, significantly affecting the speed of translation.
- PDF: A properly formatted PDF file is loved by a client but loathed by the translators. These files are in display-only mode, which means translators need to convert them before translating the content. Even the editable PDFs are rigid and not always compatible with certain CAT tools. So, during translations of technical content, it is advisable to send the source formattable file, like InDesign, Word, or anything else.
A professional InDesign translation service is highly recommended during such tasks that involve multilingual PDFs.
- HTML and XML: HTML and XML file formats are generally used for web documentation and software manuals. They preserve the structure of the tags required for localization and are typically CAT-tool friendly. However, translators working with such files need to have high technical literacy skills to ensure complete accuracy.
Formatting Tips for Smoother Technical Translations
Improper file formats can lead to errors, high costs, and delays in delivery. However, you can sidestep all these challenges by following these tips.
- Always provide a full source of documentation and essential guidelines to your translation partner.
- For DTP projects, be sure to share all related fonts and templates used in source content. Also, ensure that the translation agency works on the same version of the software as provided in the source.
- Be sure to send graphics and images in the requested format. Furthermore, send the source file of illustrations if any translation is required in them.
- Keep transparent communication with the linguistic service to identify which file format is the most suitable.
- It is essential to remember that all languages do not follow the same structure. For instance, English is a compact language and takes up less space. The translation agency must be an expert at addressing such issues.
Ensure Linguistic and Stylized Accuracy with Professionals
From this blog, we can understand the value of a file format for technical translations. However, that doesn’t undermine the importance of clarity, accuracy, and legal compliance in translations. To check all these elements off, you need to partner with a reliable technical translation agency like Somya Translators. Certified under ISO 17100:2015, we offer unmatched linguistic and cultural accuracy in technical documents, thanks to our highly skilled native linguists. We are open to working and delivering results in your preferred file formats.
Some of our highly sought-after technical translations include
- Handbook, user guides, and product manuals
- Patents and other statutory documents
- CAD drawings and scientific translations
- Website and software localization
So, ensure flawless formatting and translation in complex technical projects only with us, Somya Translators. After all, we don’t just satisfy your linguistic requirements; we exceed your expectations because
“You Say It, We Do It!”