How to Request Translation Services

Translation request

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Imagine you’ve got a stack of important documents—maybe patient intake forms, legal contracts, or technical manuals—that need to be translated for a client who doesn’t speak the original language. It’s not just about swapping words; one misstep could lead to serious misunderstandings or even legal complications. To make sure every detail is clear and accurate, there are a few steps that can help you get translations that convey the right message and meet your needs.

Whether you’re handling language translation requests for the first time or looking for tips to make your process more efficient, this short guide will show you how to handle it all. We’ll cover how to make requests that ensure the best possible result, how to request language translations through Boostlingo, and some simple tips to keep your projects on track.

The Role of a Translation Requestor

While both translation and interpreting services bridge language gaps, they serve different needs. Translation involves converting written text from one language to another, ensuring that documents like contracts, medical records, or product manuals stay accurate and culturally relevant. Interpreting, however, is the real-time spoken conversion between languages, typically used in live settings like medical appointments or legal proceedings.

Learn more: Translator vs. Interpreter: What’s the Difference?

A translation requestor initiates translation requests with a language service provider by specifying details such as the target language, document type, industry context, and any relevant terminology. By providing clear and thorough information, the requestor makes sure the right translator is equipped to deliver accurate, high-quality translations that meet the needs of your organization, whether in legal, healthcare, or other specialized fields.

How to Request Translation Services: Step-by-Step

When using Boostlingo, requestors can rely on a straightforward translation process designed for fast turnaround and accuracy. Here’s an overview:

  1. Submit Your Translation Request:
    1. Open the request form and start by selecting the “I need DOCUMENT TRANSLATION” category.
    2. Proceed by filling out the translation form with your details. Add notes with details like language pair, document type, and any specific terminology required for the project.
    3. Once you’re done providing the requested information, simply click the ”Submit” button.
  2. Receive a Translation Quote: Boostlingo’s team reviews your submission and typically provides a quote within two hours, so you know the estimated time and cost quickly.
  3. Project Management: Once confirmed, your document is translated by experienced professionals. They use resources like glossaries and a Translation Memory System (TMS) to maintain consistent document terminology.
  4. Review and Feedback: The completed translation is delivered to you with an option for final review and feedback, ensuring the document meets your requirements before it’s finalized.

Best Practices for Requesting Translation Services

To ensure your translations are completed accurately and efficiently, take note of the following tips:

Specify Language and Regional Variants: Be clear about language variation preferences. For example, requesting Canadian French instead of European French helps with writing translations that are relevant and accurate to the target audience.

Provide Context and Resources: Share any glossaries, in-house style guides or previous translations to guide the translation team and help them match industry-specific language.

Set Clear Deadlines: Providing specific timelines helps the project coordinator and lets you receive the documents when you need them.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When making translation requests, try to avoid these common mistakes:

Vague Language Details: Choosing the wrong language or regional variant can affect the clarity and impact of the translation. This could lead to damaging your organization’s reputation, or worse, hurting the people involved.

Omitting Key Details: Contextual information, like project background or intended use, helps the translator deliver a high-quality translation aligned with your goals.

Types of Professional Translation Services

Translation services can be tailored to the needs of organizations from many different industries. From legal to healthcare, different industries have unique requirements that translation services have to meet.  

Common Types of Translation Services

  • Document Translation Services
  • Legal Translation Services
  • Healthcare Translation Services
  • Technical Translation Services
  • Business Translation Services
  • Non-Profit Translation Services
  • Education Translation Services
  • Government Translation Services

Read our article on Expert Translation Services for Multilingual Communication to learn more. 

Simplified Translation Requests

Boostlingo’s translation service is designed to make every step of the request process hassle-free. Access to a network of professional translators in the Boostlingo Hub (BHub), detailed quotes, and real-time tracking, makes submitting language requests easier than ever.  

Curious about our translation services? Request a quote by filling out our online form today! 

 

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