Language preparation with a defined purpose
Translation requires suitable source text. If only a scan is available, OCR may be needed first. Recognition errors can affect later work and should be considered within the agreed checking scope.
We establish source and target languages, text volume, subject area and intended use before starting. Existing terminology lists and style guidance help make the requirements concrete.
Output formats follow the intended use
These formats are possibilities rather than a blanket promise for every source. Tables, illustrations and complex layouts can require additional discussion.
| Intended use | Possible output | To agree beforehand |
|---|---|---|
| Read and share | Page layout and required text layer | |
| Edit the text | DOCX | Structure and formatting |
| Read on digital reading devices | EPUB | Content structure and suitability of the source |
| Import data into systems | CSV or JSON | Fields and file associations |
How we define the work
- Discuss source material and intended use
- Agree target language, terminology and structure
- Specify formats and the level of checking
- Use a sample file as the basis for further processing where helpful
- Deliver the result in the agreed format
Information for a proposal
Send a representative extract and an approximate word or page count. Specify source and target languages, subject area, required format and intended use. If you only need format conversion, describe the existing files and destination system.
Frequently asked questions
Is translation the same as OCR?
No. OCR recognises characters in images. Translation transfers content into another language and is a separate processing step.
Can I commission only file format preparation?
Yes. We assess the existing material and agree a suitable output with the required structure.