Translation memory is a computer-assisted translation tool and is a record of all already- translated content – including both the source language and translated text.
As such, translation memory allows translators to draw on previously translated material to both expedite the translation process and support consistency across translations.
Is translation memory the same as machine translation?
Translation memory is not a machine translation tool, but it can enable it to reduce costs and increase accuracy.
For machine translation with post-editing (MTPE) projects, the translation engine starts by drawing on the existing translation memory.
For example, when we translate IEPs for schools, Alboum applies both our special education translation memory and that of the specific organization. Then the machine output is reviewed by a professional linguist for completion, consistency, and cohesion.
Trados, Alboum’s translation memory tool
Alboum utilizes Trados for most client projects. Trados allows us to review documents for repetitious content and to streamline the production process with linguists and designers (when layout is needed).
We keep separate translation memories for each of our clients and, as appropriate, also can maintain separate memories by subject area, department, or project.
Trados also holds translation glossaries already available or created together with our clients. They are pre-loaded into Trados so translators can draw on them from the very first project we do for an organization.
Alboum’s Linguistic Quality Assurance team conducts maintenance on translation memories to identify variations in similar translations, as well as to keep them as error-free as possible.
A note on repetitious content
When repetitious content is identified, it is translated once and then automatically applied in each additional instance. Translators review each subsequent application to ensure it is accurate and culturally appropriate in context.
This allows us to save organizations money by charging only once for a translation and applying a reduced review rate for the additional instances.
Translation memory and privacy
Documents such as IEPs or patient letters often contain personally identifiable information (PII), or protected health information (PHI).
Utilizing Trados does not compromise FERPA or HIPAA compliance.
The platform itself is secure and data is kept within Alboum’s compliant servers. Files containing PHI or PII are processed through Trados to ensure all standardized, non-individualized content is leveraged and consistent with previous translations. Once unique, individualized text is translated and we deliver the files, it is deleted from the memory to ensure privacy and compliance.
Can your organization benefit from translation memory?
If your organization has a regular need to translate documents, contact Alboum today.
We would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can put translation memory to work to save you time and money, while increasing consistency and quality across your multilingual documents.
