|
Translating Today deals with up-to-date topics in the field of translation and interpreting. We intend to keep a hands-on approach to the subjects presented and would like to hear from a wide range of contributors dealing with all aspects of the profession, from the general to the specific, the literary and the technical, working freelance and for agencies, trainers and trainees. All language combinations will be considered, but articles must be delivered in English.
Translating Today also includes resources - news bulletins, links to local associations, universities offering courses for professional development and a calendar of events. |
|
|
Translating Technical Manuals |
 |
 |
 |
|
What are they used for?
Keeping in perspective the precise and specific purpose of a technical text
A technical text is not a literary text sprinkled with hard to understand, complicated, puzzling words (the so called technical terms) and funny sentences. Far from it. A technical text, or the manuals that form its natural habitat, is written for a very precise and specific purpose: to convey information to those who need it to perform their work, keep their jobs, or, simply, to enhance their lives. With these simple facts in mind, we will look at a manual’s anatomy, dissect it part by part (from the translator’s point of view), and study some examples of what to do (and not to do…). Not convinced? Look at the spines (yes, just the spines…) of the books lying on your shelves and try to spot the differences.
So, what are technical manuals?
They are not some literary work with a few technical buzzwords. They’re just a roadmap for the user of the system they refer to. Their purpose is to convey information. Remember: you don’t read technical manuals for pleasure, you USE technical manuals because you need to know what they tell you. The translators of technical manuals must keep this in perspective. Otherwise, they become useless pieces of cheap literature.
|
|
Read more...
|
|
|
Translation – a changing profession |
|
|
|
|
Training, teamwork, technology
Adapting the profession to the changing needs of the 21st Century
In this article Mary Carroll addresses what it means to work for a translation company that specialises in translations for the audiovisual media, the social sciences as well as business and marketing texts. She outlines different work processes, client needs, continuing training opportunities and expectations, and the impact and opportunities of technology on their work.
The job profile of a translator is changing constantly. It is no longer defined solely by criteria such as source and target languages, specialisation areas and freelance or payroll status. Translation skills and love of language are essential but so, too, are lifelong learning, an open attitude to new technologies, team spirit, and reliability.
|
|
Read more...
|
|
|