We often get asked “Is there one way to translate all documents?” The answer is “no”, however there are simple steps that allow us to put structure into most types of translation.

Of course, each project has its own variables and challenges, from simply the languages involved to the subject matter of the content itself, and then the more complex issue of who the audience is and how they’re going to engage with the translation.

So, no two translations are ever the same, but as a Language Services Provider (LSP) we run the majority of our work through a series of steps known as the TEP process. This gives us consistency in how we approach projects and the final accuracy and quality of our translations.

In this article, we’ll quickly explain the TEP process so you get a high-level understanding of what it is, how it works, and its benefits to finished translated material.

What is the TEP Process?

Let’s start with what we’re talking about. What does TEP stand for?

• Translating – Taking the source content from the source language to the target language.
• Editing – Refining the translation to make it as accurate to the original as possible.
• Proofreading – Checking the edited version of the translation to remove any grammatical errors and deliver a final translation for client approval.

There it is in a nutshell, but as we look at the TEP process in a little more detail we’ll see what these steps are and why each of them are important?

Step 1 – Translation

The translator, or multiple translators if the brief requires a larger team, is chosen for their knowledge of the source and target language as well as their experience in the specific industry. They should understand, and preferably have on-the-ground knowledge of, any localization needs of the project.

Localization takes into account the specific culture of the audience and the context in which they’ll interact with the translated material.

The translator will produce the new material in the target language, retaining the original tone of voice, meaning and delivery style of the source content. This first draft of the translation is then ready for a fresh set of eyes in the form of an editor.

Step 2 – Editing

The editor takes the translated material and reviews it. The key things they’re checking are does the translation maintain the intent of the source material and does it cover it in its entirety.

They’re also reviewing to ensure complex ideas are correctly conveyed and the text flows naturally in the new language.

If the client has a glossary or term bank, they check keywords and phrases against these tools to make sure that there is consistency with how the company or brand communicates in all languages.

When every box is ticked, then the translation is accurate and nearly complete. Just one more step to go…

Step 3 – Proofreading

This is the final Quality Assurance (QA) check, where any spelling, grammar and punctuation errors are removed. It’s the last polish on the translation.

Usually, the proofreader won’t compare the new text to the source text because they’re not focussed on subjective nuances, that was the role of the editor, they’re looking solely at the final text in the target language.

After proofreading, the content is ready to be consumed by its new audience. It may well have to go through a stylistic process such as Desktop Publishing (DTP) to get it visually into the right format for where it’ll be hosted, but the translation itself is accurate, error-free, and ready to go.

When You Don’t Need the TEP Process

Having some sort of process is always the optimal way to translate material. However, the TEP process involves a few levels of human intervention, and sometimes translations don’t have the budget or importance to warrant this.

For large volumes of material that will have minimal attention after translation, a simplified AI-driven Machine Translation option, with little or no human guidance, is a more cost-effective route forward.

For example, if you’re translating an entire back catalogue of administrative files for storage, this would probably be a better option.

Take A TEP in the Right Direction

On the surface, the TEP process is simple and straightforward. Each step is necessary and adds another level of quality control from a new linguist adding to the robustness of the translation workflow.

It’s these layers and individual opinions that make for a strong QA process and translations that have minimized the risk of misunderstandings, cultural inaccuracies, or errors.

Is the TEP process right for your translation needs? It’s likely, after all it’s the backbone of the translation workflow, but ultimately it depends on what you’re translating.

If you’re wondering what the best route forward is for your specific needs, get in touch and we can talk you through options so that they’re contextual to your situation.

At LinguaLinx, we can help you bring your brand or products to another country, culture or community. Consultations are free and there’s no obligation. You’re in safe hands with us as we’re ISO 17100 and ISO 9001 compliant, have over twenty years of professional translation experience, and have earned the trust of organizations around the world.