Knowledge Base

A translation agency is a professional service provider specialising in language translation and interpreting. Its aim is to overcome language barriers and facilitate effective communication between customers and companies speaking different languages. These agencies work with experienced and qualified translators who are proficient in various languages and have high-level language skills and experience.

Translation agencies provide a wide range of services, including professional translations, legal translations, medical translations, business translations and many other types of translations. Translators not only translate the words but also take cultural differences into account in the translation process to ensure that the message in the target language is not only linguistically accurate but also intellectually and culturally accurate.

A translation agency plays an important role in the business world, helping companies to internationalise and establish a presence in international markets. They are also indispensable in legal, medical, technical and academic fields, where accurate and professional language use is essential.

What does a translator do in a translation agency?

A translator is a professional who translates a text from its source language into its target language, either orally or in writing, while preserving its meaning, style and cultural differences. His or her job is to translate foreign language texts accurately and clearly, whether they are literary, business, legal or technical. Translators often specialise in different fields and can be employed to translate written materials, technical documentation, business communications or other types of texts.

In summary:

Translation agencies often use advanced technology such as translation memory and automated tools to speed up and make translation processes more efficient. These agencies offer their clients flexible deadlines, competitive prices and personalised services. Overall, translation agencies not only enable communication between languages, but also contribute to global communication and understanding between different cultures, thereby strengthening the network of relationships around the world and promoting the free flow of information.

Interpreting is a complex linguistic process in which a professional, the interpreter, mediates between two or more language speakers. This process is designed to facilitate effective communication when the parties involved do not understand each other’s language. Interpreting can take many forms, including simultaneous interpreting, consecutive interpreting, and remote interpreting.

In simultaneous interpreting, the interpreter translates the speaker’s words into the listeners’ language at the same time. This type of interpreting is often used at conferences or live broadcasts. The interpreter is typically not present at the event itself, but rather in a separate location, known as an interpreter booth, where they may use special equipment such as headphones and a microphone. The audience listens to the interpreted text through headphones.

In consecutive interpreting, the speaker and the interpreter take turns speaking in the same room. The speaker says a few sentences or a small unit and then stops so that the interpreter can translate it. This type of interpreting is common in business meetings, negotiations, roundtable talks, factory visits, and smaller group events.

Remote interpreting refers to situations where the speaker and the interpreter are not in the same place. In this case, the translation is done by phone, video call or other online platform.

The interpreter must not only know the two languages but also have a thorough knowledge of the two cultures. The interpreter must take into account not only the words, but also the cultural context and pronunciation, so that the translation is faithful to the original meaning and understandable to the speakers of the target language.

Interpretation is a key tool in international relations, diplomacy, business negotiations and in the health sector. It requires a high level of expertise, and interpreters often need to have knowledge in legal, medical, technical or other professional fields. A good interpreter stands out not only for his or her language skills, but also for his or her empathy and ability to think quickly, ensuring that the parties concerned communicate effectively and develop an understanding.

A simultaneous interpreter is a professional who performs a special form of interpreting, translating text from one language to another at the same time, i.e. in real time. This type of interpretation is often used for live television broadcasts, conferences and online events. A simultaneous interpreter must not only have a perfect command of both languages but also have exceptional concentration and memory skills.

The main difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpreting is the time difference. While in consecutive interpreting the speaker and the interpreter take turns, a simultaneous interpreter translates words almost instantly and continuously. As a result, a simultaneous interpreter must react quickly, process information immediately and verbally convey it in the target language in the form of a running text.

Thanks to their special skills, simultaneous interpreters demonstrate a high degree of flexibility and creativity, especially in situations where phrases or expressions cannot be translated literally. In addition, simultaneous interpreters need to maintain the style and tone of the original speech so that the message can still be effectively conveyed to the listener in live broadcasts.

Simultaneous interpreters are also indispensable in the film industry. They are the professionals who make sure that the dialogue in the original language of films and TV series can be enjoyed in other languages, while preserving the original feeling and expression.

This type of interpreting requires not only technical knowledge but also extreme attention and precision. The simultaneous interpreter must work invisibly yet effectively for the listener, ensuring that the translation is not only accurate but also faithfully conveys the original emotions and expressions. Simultaneous interpreters are therefore essential players in global communication and the effective dissemination of information.

Legal translation is a specialist field of translation that aims to convey legal terminology accurately and reliably between two or more languages. This specialisation involves the translation of legal documents, instruments or other legal texts from one language into another, while preserving their meaning and legal significance.

Legal translation is a specialist field of translation that aims to convey legal terminology accurately and reliably between two or more languages. This specialisation involves the translation of legal documents, instruments or other legal texts from one language into another, while preserving their meaning and legal significance.

Legal translation poses particular challenges for translators, as legal texts require precision, accuracy and linguistic sophistication. The terms used in legal documents must be clear and consistent, and any misinterpretation or inaccuracy could have serious legal consequences.

Legal translators must not only have a perfect command of both languages, but also have in-depth legal knowledge of both legal systems. Legal terminology is highly technical, so it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the differences between legal systems and to be familiar with and able to use legal concepts and terms specific to each system.

Legal translation can take many forms, including translation of legal contracts, legal orders, legislation, court documents, legal opinions and legal literature. These translations include civil law, business and commercial law, criminal law and other areas of law.

Legal translation requires not only the accurate linguistic rendering of the source text, but also the accurate capture and written expression of the original intent and legal significance of the documents. The translator must ensure that the translation has the same legal consequences as the original text. In this area, accuracy is essential. Legal documents have significant legal consequences, which means that the translation must comply with legal rules and requirements in all circumstances.

High-quality legal translation is essential in the administration of justice, business transactions, international relations, and other legal contexts. Reliable and experienced legal translators therefore play a key role in overcoming language and cultural barriers in the legal world, facilitating effective and accurate legal communication between different legal systems.

Business and economic translation is a specialised field of translation that focuses on the accurate and effective translation of management, economic and financial terms. This type of translation combines the specific linguistic and technical characteristics of economics and finance, enabling companies, financial institutions, commercial organisations and other economic operators to communicate and translate documents effectively at an international level.

Business and economic translators not only need to be fluent in economic and financial terminology but also have a deep professional knowledge of financial and economic processes. Translators working in the field of business translation often come across texts such as annual reports, financial statements, business plans, reports, accounting documents and other business literature.

Business and financial translation plays a key role in international business relations, where companies and organisations have to cooperate with numerous countries and cultures. The purpose of these translations is to provide accurate and understandable information in different markets and languages.

In business and financial translation, style and tone of voice are key, as well as linguistic precision. Business, financial and economic documents often have a formal and official language, and it is the translator’s task to preserve these aspects in the target language text. Business and financial translation must therefore ensure not only the accurate translation of glossaries, but also the correct use of terminology and style.

In addition, business and financial translators need to be sensitive to possible cultural differences, as the content of business and financial texts is often linked to the economic and legal context of different countries. Successful business translation is key to maintaining companies’ international competitiveness and professional credibility.

All in all, business and financial translation is a vital tool in the economic world, enabling companies and financial institutions to communicate effectively and transmit information accurately and reliably in global markets.

Technical translation is a field of translation that specialises in the accurate translation of specific language and terminology in technical and engineering fields. This type of translation covers the technical terminology and professional characteristics of mechanical engineering, information technology, electrical engineering, architecture, manufacturing, civil engineering, and other technical fields. The aim of technical translation is to make the content of the original document or text understandable and usable for speakers of the target language, while maintaining technical accuracy and professional precision.

Technical translators not only know the two languages, but also have a technical mindset and in-depth professional knowledge in specific technical fields. Technical translation often involves texts such as mechanical descriptions, user manuals, design documentation, programming codes, patent descriptions, standards, and other technical documents.

In technical translation, terminological accuracy is key. One small mistake or misunderstanding can have serious consequences in technical areas where accurate instructions and information are essential. Technical translators not only translate source-language technical documents into words but also apply them to the technical context of the target language, ensuring comprehension and completeness of the translation.

Technical translation plays a key role in the era of globalisation and international cooperation. Technical documents from around the world need to be accurately understood and applied and translating them allows both the spread of technical innovation and effective communication between business partners.

A good technical translator not only has a good command of languages, but is also up to date with constantly changing technical trends and developments. In addition, despite the very dry nature of technical texts, translators need to be flexible in terms of professional style and expressiveness.

In summary, technical translation is essential in industry and technology, where accurate and understandable documentation is essential for successful design, production and operation.

The price of translation is determined by a number of factors, and there is no standard pricing, as it varies depending on the service provider, language and type of text. The following aspects are taken into account for pricing:

Text type and complexity: The price of translation depends on the nature of the text. General texts, such as simple emails or social media posts, are often cheaper, while professional or subject-specific texts, such as legal documents or technical specifications, which can be more expensive to translate, are obviously more expensive.

Language pairing: Prices can vary significantly depending on supply and demand between the two languages. Translating less widely spoken languages can be more expensive.

Word or character count: Translations are usually paid on a word or character count basis. The longer the text, the higher the price can be.

Urgency: If quick translation is required, translators usually charge higher rates. Urgent projects are a priority, which may be reflected in the price.

Translation quality: Professional and experienced translators may charge a higher price. Quality and accuracy are key, especially for professional or legal translations.

Format and technical difficulties: If the translation requires a technical or special format, such as web pages or program code, prices may be higher.

For the most accurate quote, it is worth consulting the translation agency and providing the exact details of the project. It is important to note that, in the interests of quality and accuracy, it is not worth skimping on translation, as incorrect or inaccurate translations can have serious consequences. Translation is therefore an investment in professionally correct and effective communication.

The price of interpreting is determined by a number of factors and may vary depending on the service provider, language pair, type of service and nature of the project. The following factors have an impact on pricing:

Language pair: Interpreting less widely spoken or specialised languages is usually more expensive, as fewer interpreters are available in these languages.

Type of service: There are different types of interpreting services, including simultaneous interpreting (e.g. conferences), consecutive interpreting (e.g. meetings), and interpreting by telephone or online. The type of service affects the price.

Project duration: For urgent projects, higher fees are often applicable. Short deadlines mean that the interpreter has to react quickly and be prepared for the task.

Unit of account: Interpreting services may be invoiced by the hour, half-day or day. In the case of prolonged assignments exceeding the duration of the daily rate, overtime charges will apply.

Field of interpreting: In specific fields such as law, medicine or business, prices may be higher due to the specialist knowledge and technical terminology required.

Travel and accommodation expenses: If the interpreter has to travel to the location, travel costs will also affect the price. For events lasting several days, there may also be the cost of accommodation and catering.

Project size: The duration of the event or the time spent interpreting online also affects pricing.

It is important to understand that quality interpretation is an investment in effective communication. Prices may vary depending on the combination of provider and language. In addition to the price, you should also consider the experience, professional background and references of the interpreters. For a quote, it is always advisable to consult the translation and interpreting agency providing the translation and interpreting services to obtain more specific information for your particular project.

Yes, many translation agencies accept online translation orders. Online translation services allow users to access translation services easily and conveniently from anywhere in the world. Ordering online has many advantages for both customers and suppliers.

The advantages of ordering translations online:

Accessibility: Online translation services allow customers to access services from anywhere, without the need for a face-to-face meeting or a visit to a local office.

Speed: Online orders allow for fast and efficient communication between the translator and the customer. Through email, chat or online platforms, project details and expectations can be easily shared.

Global reach: Online translation services open up opportunities for the global market. Customers can choose the most suitable translator or translation agency, whether they are located in the same country or even within a continent.

Comfort: Online translation orders are convenient and time-saving for both customers and providers. You can easily follow the progress of your projects via online platforms or email.

Support for digital formats: Online translation orders also allow for easy and efficient translation of digital documents, websites, emails and other electronic formats.

When using online translation services, it is important to maintain data security and professional quality. Good communication, accurate project specifications and meeting deadlines are key to a successful online translation project. Online translation services provide the opportunity for efficient and professional translation projects, combined with user convenience and global reach.

Translation time will vary depending on a number of factors, and there are several aspects to consider. The duration of the translation process depends on the nature of the project, the length of the text, the language pairs, the translator’s experience and the deadline. Below we explain what to consider when determining the translation time:

Text length and complexity: Longer and more complex texts require more time. Texts containing field-specific or technical terminology, such as legal or technical documents, may require additional time for accurate translation and proofreading.

Language pairs: Translation time depends on the combination of source and target languages. For translations in less widely spoken languages, there may be fewer translators available, which may affect the time needed to complete the translation.

Translator experience: Experienced translators are often more efficient and faster, but the time taken can vary depending on the complexity and scope of the project.

Urgency: Urgent projects require faster response times and faster completion, which may result in higher fees.

Format and technical difficulties: Special formats or technical challenges such as translating websites or standards can take more time.

Communication with the translator: Clear and effective communication between the client and the translator can help the process to run smoothly and quickly.

Summary:
In general, translation projects can take anywhere from days to weeks to complete, depending on the specifications of the project. A precise project specification, including the desired deadline, is important. To ensure quality translations, time should be taken for proper checking and correction. When planning a project, realistic deadlines and effective communication help to ensure a successful translation process. However, only the translation agency can determine the exact completion time.

The translation process in a translation agency is a complex and well-organised process that involves a number of steps to ensure quality, accuracy and deadlines. The following are the main steps in the translation process:

Project evaluation and quotation: The translation agency first assesses the project. This takes into account the nature and length of the text, language pairs, subject area and deadlines. They will then prepare a quotation, including prices, translation time, services and expectations.

Project approval and contract: If the customer accepts the offer, the parties conclude a contract. This sets out the details of the project, including prices, deadlines, project specifications and services.

Translator selection: The translation agency will select the most suitable translator according to the nature and language of the project. This could be a translator specialising in the field or a whole team of translators, depending on the nature of the project.

Translation: The translator starts the translation in the source language. Accuracy of the text is of paramount importance, especially with regard to technical terminology and expressions.

Translation review: The translator or another expert will check the translation. At this stage, the linguistic and content accuracy, stylistics and formal requirements of the text are checked.

Formatting and editing: The translation agency ensures that the translation complies with the formal requirements and formats the document in a manner similar to the original.

Returning the document to the customer: The translated document is returned to the customer. At this stage, the customer can comment and request corrections or further changes if necessary.

Feedback and closure: Based on feedback between the translation agency and the customer, the project is closed, and payment is made. To ensure quality, customer feedback is important for future projects.

Translation agencies often use specialist tools and software to make the translation process more efficient and accurate. Project management systems, terminology databases and translation memories help ensure professional consistency and save time. The process is flexible, and each project may have its own unique features and requirements.

Translation agencies usually specify in the proposal the number of corrections to be made during the project, which is part of the basic fee. The basic fee usually includes the cost of translation, reviewing and any necessary coordination. However, if the client requests additional corrections that are not included in the original agreement, translation agencies may charge extra for these.

This extra cost may arise in the following cases:

Further corrections: If the customer requests additional linguistic or content corrections to the translation already completed, an additional fee may be charged.

Modified specifications: If the customer changes specifications or requirements during the project and this requires new work by the translator, this can result in extra costs.

Urgency: If the client requests urgent work and the translator or translation agency has to work overtime, the urgency fee may be charged as an additional cost.

It is important that the customer communicates precisely with the translation agency about their expectations, specifications and any details that may affect the cost and duration of the project. A written contract or agreement will set out the costs and expectations in detail, so that both parties are clear about the project and the costs involved.

A clearly written order and contract will help avoid misunderstandings and possible disputes at the end of the project. Good communication and accurate documentation are important for successful translation projects. It is advisable for the customer to agree in advance with the translation agency on the expectations and the number of corrections to be made in order to avoid any misunderstandings and disputes during the project.

Certified translation is an activity aimed at issuing a legally relevant, i.e. authentic, public document with full probative value. A certified translation is therefore produced by a certified translator or translation agency and is certified or signed to formally attest its accuracy to the original text. Certified translations are often required for legal or official documents where it is important to ensure authenticity and accuracy.

The main features of a certified translation are:

Signature of a certified translator: A certified translator officially signs the translated document, making it valid. The signature indicates that the translator has the professional knowledge and undertakes that the translation will be accurate and faithful to the source.

Certificate: Certified translations are often accompanied by a certificate explaining the authenticity of the translation and the professional status of its signatory. This letter can be used as official documentation to prove the authenticity of the translation.

Official seal: Authentic translations often include an official stamp, which further strengthens the authenticity of the document and the reference of the signatory.

Authorisation: Certified translations may be prepared by organisations and professionals who are authorised to take on this task.

There are two types of certified translation:

1. Paper-based certified translations: Documents are submitted on paper and translations are also provided on paper.

2. Electronic certified translation: Documents with electronic signatures are received electronically and there are no paper copies.

Certified translations are often requested for official documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, diploma copies, legal contracts or any other document that has official significance. Such translations are accepted by official bodies, government institutions or foreign authorities for the authentic presentation of documents in the official language.

It is important to note that the cost and procedure for certified translations may vary from country to country and institution to institution, so it is always advisable to check the specific requirements with the relevant authorities.