The Translation Business and Joey Tribbiani

When I need a translation of a word or short phrase, like most people, I’ll grab my laptop and use an online translation service or a search engine. However, when it comes to official documents or written content that is comprised of more than just a simple word or phrase, translation companies are the only way to go. Experienced translators know how to ensure that content, syntax, and meaning are properly conveyed into the target language, a concept that online translation tools have yet to perfect. An example that I like to use is a particular scene from the TV show, Friends. While writing a letter, Joey discovers the thesaurus feature on his computer...which yields some interesting results.

By using inaccurate synonyms throughout his letter, the phrase "warm, nice people with big hearts" becomes "humid, pre-possessing homo sapiens with full-sized aortic pumps.” While this is an obviously comical exaggeration, it illustrates the point that translations require more than an automated word-for-word conversion- especially when specific terms have nuanced meanings. A translation company will ensure that all written documents are accurately translated by maintaining overall intent and meaning, as well as syntax and tone.

Back to Basics: The Difference Between Interpretation and Translation

Today’s topic might seem like common knowledge to people who are familiar with the language service industry, but if you are one of those individuals who believes that these two words mean the same thing, you’re not alone. Lately I have come across a number of articles online that use the terms interpretation and translation interchangeably.

In a nutshell, an interpretation refers to the conversion of one spoken language into another. (For a sign language interpreter, it is the conversion of a spoken language into Sign Language or vice versa.) A translation refers to converting written material from one language into another. Consequently, interpretation services and language translation require contrasting skill sets, making interpreters and translators distinctly different.

Expanding Your Organization’s Global Presence

Did you know that over 70% of the world’s global internet population does not speak English? In spite of this fact, the majority of web pages on the internet today are exclusively in English. To address this growing discrepancy, many companies are creating language specific versions of their websites to cater to non-English speaking audiences. Twitter is currently available in 28 languages, having recently released versions in Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew, and Urdu. Wikipedia is adding more African language versions to their website offerings. Are you missing this significant opportunity to expand your target audience? Consider utilizing a translation service to create alternate language versions of your website!

There is a huge international economy out there, and the right translation company can help your organization expand its global presence. Be sure to select a reputable language service provider that you can trust to create an accurate translation of your website content.

International Franchise Expo: Stop by our booth!

Interpreters Unlimited™ will be exhibiting at the International Franchise Expo in New York City from June 15-17. Be sure to stop by Booth #161 and say hello! We will be providing information about Interpreters Unlimited™ and the franchise opportunities that we offer.

Are you looking to start a business? Consider an IU home based franchise! Interpreters Unlimited™ franchises feature a low cash investment, flexible schedule, and a performance guarantee. We also provide training and ongoing support to ensure your success. IU is offering only a limited number of franchises (based on location), so don’t miss your chance to take advantage of this opportunity. Contact Interpreters Unlimited™ today to find out how you can get started in the translation and interpreter business.

Dual-Language Immersion – Multilingualism in the Classroom

Did you know that there are a growing number of schools that currently offer dual-language immersion programs? This multilingual trend is growing in popularity, particularly throughout the state of California. In these programs, students are taught lessons in a combination of two (or more) languages.

The ability to speak more than one language boasts a clear set of advantages in today’s global economy. While the advancement of multilingual education programs is a step in the right direction, the majority of people are only capable of speaking one language. There is a huge global economy out there, and language can either bridge cultures or keep them apart. One way to solve this situation is to utilize interpreter and translating services. These services break down the barriers that language differences can create.

There are many language service providers offering language translation and interpreting services. At a glance they might seem alike, but in reality, not all language service providers are created equal. One of the most telling characteristics about a language service organization is the number of languages that they offer. If you are seeking services for a language that is rare, your options may slim down dramatically.

Interpreters Unlimited™ currently provides expert language interpretation and professional written translation services in over 130 languages. If you can speak it, we can translate it. Contact us today for more information. We believe that life takes communication, and Interpreters Unlimited™ can make that conversation a whole lot easier…

The Value of Professionalism in the Interpreter Business

When it comes to interpreting services, skill and accuracy are absolute requirements. Another important element is professionalism. In a courthouse in Worcester, England the judge adjourned a trial FOUR times because the scheduled interpreter did not show up. The Polish defendant, whose understanding of English was minimal, even received an apology for the inconvenience that the situation had caused. This instance is a perfect example of how important reliability is when it comes to choosing interpreter services, especially in the legal arena.

If you are dealing with legal matters, the last thing you want to be worrying about is if your interpreter will show up for your appointment. So how do you decide which agency is right for you? There are many factors to consider in selecting an interpreter business for the law industry. Be sure to do your research before making a decision. Choose an agency that is trustworthy, has a strong reputation in the language service field, and works with credentialed legal interpreters so you can have full confidence that your language service needs will be met successfully…and on time.

Coming Soon: A Smartphone Sign Language Interpreter?

Scientists in Scotland are currently working on groundbreaking software that would allow smartphones to act as mobile sign language interpreters. The app would enable sign language recognition by utilizing the camera feature on mobile devices such as cell phones and tablets. After signing into the camera, the captured video would then be translated to text in real time.

The Portable Sign Language Translator, or PSLT, has the potential to offer remarkable benefits in everyday language translation. While the app could facilitate many aspects of daily life for signers, it can never replace the technical skill and accuracy of traditional in-person interpreting services. A smartphone application, no matter how advanced, will always be just that- an app. Vulnerable to the same glitches and malfunctions as your beloved Angry Birds application. When it comes to formal conversations and official situations that need exact translation, I’ll choose an experienced interpreter over a smartphone app any day.