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What is it?

The instance when a source segment that is submitted to translation is word-for-word the same as a source segment that has already been translated and exists in the translation memory (TM).

Why is it important?

Exact matches save translation expenses. Once a segment has been translated, an exact match reduces the cost of processing that same segment again. In-context exact matches reduce costs even more.

...continue reading "Term of the Week: Exact match"

What is it?

The production of professional quality, print-ready materials using specialized software to design the layouts and templates. It has replaced manual typesetting and paste up as a discipline, and has evolved beyond desktop computers to include laptops, mobile devices, and the cloud.

Why is it important?

DTP software is used to produce most printed documentation in circulation. It can be 50% of the cost of a localization project, so if the source files are poorly internationalized, this task can break a company’s localization budget[Esselink, 2000]. Properly implemented XML or other structure can significantly reduce DTP costs, but you still need skilled designers to create the output templates.

...continue reading "Term of the Week: Desktop Publishing (DTP)"

What is it?

A translation process in which professional human translators use software programs, such as translation memory or terminology management tools, that support and facilitate productivity and accurate, consistent translations.

Why is it important?

CAT tools provide workflow management and resource allocation and help human translators build and maintain translation memories. When implemented correctly, CAT tools significantly improve efficiency, quality, and consistency, which helps to reduce translation costs.

...continue reading "Term of the Week: Computer-aided translation (CAT)"

What is it?

A defined list of grouped symbols used for digital communication.

Why is it important?

All global text belongs to a particular character set. Digital programs and platforms expect a specific character set so that they correctly process, render, and visualize each character of the text.

...continue reading "Term of the Week: Character Set"