Need a translation? If this is your first time procuring translation services, it can be difficult to know where to start. Language translation can be a complex field, with many considerations to be taken into account. However, don’t be put off! We’ve compiled a handy FAQ, which we hope you will find useful when you’re trying to find an expert translator.

1. I’ve seen a number of service levels advertised when looking for translation services. What are they?

   Translation service levels usually correspond to the amount of quality checking involved. Many UK translation services will offer cheaper rates if translation is required merely to get the ‘gist’ of the text, and will charge more for translations which are destined for publication. Premium translation services often involve proof-reading by an independent translator, to ensure that the document is as accurate and appropriate as possible.

2. I’ve got someone who speaks some Spanish in my office, do I need a translator?
   This really depends on how important your document is. We would always recommend that translation is carried out by a professional translator, in order to ensure accurate translations. If your document will be seen by potential clients, don’t risk it!
3. If I send you a document with artwork in it, can you send it back to us in the same format?
   Veritas offers Desk Top Publishing (DTP) services, so we can input the translation into your artwork, saving you valuable time and effort. Some languages, such as Arabic, are not read in the same direction as English, so translations such as these will often require substantial re-formatting of the document in order to appear the same way as the original for the new target market. We will be happy to give you more information about our DTP services, and we can handle any file format.
4. Why is the translation longer or shorter than the original?
   Rest assured, this is quite a normal occurrence. Some languages are ‘wordier’ than English, or express themselves more succinctly. This means that the word-count, or even the number of pages, could change significantly in translation.
5. I’d like a few changes to be made to my text when it is translated, can you do this?
   If your products or services vary from country to country, for example, you may need some small tweaks to be made to the corresponding catalogue or advertisements. We are happy to help with these kinds of amendments, so just let us know what you need, and we’ll be pleased to oblige!

I hope this blog serves to answer any questions you may have. If you need any further information about our translation services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Alternatively, if you have a question that we haven’t covered here, please leave a comment and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.