Some PSD tips on selecting a translation services provider

• When choosing a translation services provider, the cost of the translation should not be the only consideration

While low prices are frequently the main factor in accepting a particular offer, cheap services often prove more expensive than services offered at a ‘reasonable price’.

• High quality translations and additional discounts

These are possible if:

      - you are actively involved in the project. In this way, you help translators learn more about the subject matter they are translating;
      - you choose to cooperate with the agency on a long term basis;
      - the agency uses translation tools. Translation tools can enable additional discounts on the basis of repetitions in a text.

• The quality of the agency from which you order a translation

If the agency follows a standardised translation process, checks are almost unnecessary. In other cases, it is advisable to check the references of the agency from which you order the translation.

Additional advice related to the translation process

• In addition to translators, text translations should be reviewed by a reviser, an independent reviewer and, if the client wishes, a language editor

A translated text review by an independent reviser is the basic requirement of the EN 15038 standard. The decision to review depends on the function of the text (e.g. catalogues, legislation, academic papers, etc.).

• Give your expertise in the translation process

This is very helpful to the agency when cooperation begins. If the client provides a translator with additional material or dictionaries, this significantly facilitates their work.

• Request that the agency use translation tools

Translation tools are indispensable professional aids to any translator. An agency that cares about translation quality uses at least one translation tool in its work environment.

• Review translated texts yourself

If you notice any discrepancies, you can immediately inform the translation agency. For this process, we help you optimise your precious time by giving you access to the PSD extranet application.

• Optimise translation time

PSD gives you the opportunity to become involved in the translation process and influence its speed and quality. The PSD extranet application, wich is PSD’s own product, allows you to participate in projects simply by accessing your profile.