Can we do without a translation project manager?

18 June 2024
Posted by: Nereida BIRDWELL
Categories: Document translation, Project management

Today, more than ever, the idea of doing your own business translations is tempting. However, are you sure you’re making the right choice?

Although many tools exist, professional translation is not your core business. The time you will spend managing the project, with one or more language combinations, represents hidden costs for your company, with no guarantee of results. Besides, talking is one thing, writing is another. Ease of expression is no guarantee of fluid, elegant writing. And as you know, machine translation engines are not 100% reliable and require the eye of a professional.

Before taking the plunge, think about how much you have spent on the export strategy for your products or services. Wouldn’t it be a shame to waste those investments by using a rough translation, and conveying an unprofessional image when you step up your business to international scale?

At BIRDWELL, we offer much more than just translation. Our project managers take care of a wide range of ancillary tasks, relieving you of the burden entirely and freeing up your time. And we know: time is money!

Selecting the right translator, monitoring the project, controlling quality, converting files, standardizing the presentation of projects in different languages, and delivering on time and on budget: these are the tasks of our translation project managers, wherein lies their added value. Of course, it comes at a price, but the time you’ll save is well worth it!

In the world of translation, project managers are the real conductors, harmonizing the work of translators, proofreaders and other language experts to ensure that the final product is as faithful as possible to the original. Their role is complex and demanding, but absolutely crucial in guaranteeing the quality and consistency of translations.

Let’s delve into the daily lives of these “conductors” and learn about their essential role.

Coordination and planning

The translation project manager is first and foremost a master of coordination. Imagine a juggler, but instead of juggling balls, s/he juggles files, tight deadlines, specific client requirements and teams of translators scattered across the globe. As soon as a new project arrives, the translation project manager must quickly assess the needs, select the most suitable translators and draw up a detailed schedule.

For example, suppose a technology company launches a new product in several languages. The translation project manager must ensure that each translator understands not only the target language, but also the technical jargon specific to the product. It’s a bit like throwing a big party, where you have to choose the right DJ, the right food and the right decorations to make sure everyone has a good time.

Selecting translators

Translators do not all offer the same thing. Some specialize in technical fields, others in literature and still others in legal or medical texts. The project manager therefore needs to know the strengths and weaknesses of each translator in their network. Using this in-depth knowledge, they can assign the right translator to the right project.

Let’s take the example of a complex legal contract. The translation project manager knows that this type of document requires not only a perfect command of the source and target languages, but also an in-depth knowledge of the law and legal terminology. By assigning a translator specialized in the legal field, the project manager can be sure that the translation is not only accurate, but also correct in legal terms.

Managing deadlines and resources

Time management is a vital skill for a translation project manager. Deadlines can be tight, and clients often request revisions or last-minute changes. The project manager must therefore be able to manage resources efficiently, ensuring that every stage of the process runs smoothly.

Occasionally, a translator may fall ill, or a project may take longer than expected. In these situations, the translation project manager needs to be responsive and find solutions quickly, such as dividing up the work between other available translators or even taking on certain tasks personally. In short, the translation project manager must use all the means at their disposal to ensure that the project is completed successfully, and on time. It’s a bit like being a ship’s captain in the middle of a storm: keeping calm and making quick, effective decisions is crucial.

Quality and consistency

Ensuring the quality and consistency of translations is another major responsibility of the translation project manager. This involves meticulous proofreading, and often close collaboration with professional proofreaders and experts in the field. Every detail counts, because a small mistake can have big consequences, especially in sensitive fields such as medicine or law.

To guarantee this quality, the translation project manager implements rigorous control processes. For example, a translation may go through several levels of proofreading: first by the translator him/herself, then by a specialized proofreader and finally by the project manager, who carries out a final check. This multi-step process ensures that the translation is accurate, consistent and faithful to the original.

Communicating with clients

Another essential aspect of the translation project manager’s role is communication with clients. Clients often have specific requirements and high expectations. The project manager must therefore be attentive, and able to ask the right questions to clarify the requirements, advise the client on the best way to proceed, and provide regular updates on project progress.

Managing expectations is also crucial. If a client requests a revision that is not feasible within the given deadline, the translation project manager must find a compromise solution while maintaining the quality of the work. This ability to negotiate and manage expectations is central to achieving project success.

Adaptability and problem solving

Translation projects rarely go without a hitch. Whether the issue is cultural differences to be managed, complex technical terminology or logistical problems, the project manager needs to be adaptable and able to solve problems quickly.

For example, a technical translation may reveal terms that do not exist in the target language. The project manager must then work with the translator and the client to find appropriate solutions, for example by creating new terms or finding close equivalents. This ability to adapt and be creative is invaluable in managing translation projects.

Evolution and ongoing training

The world of translation is constantly evolving, with new technologies and changing practices. Translation project managers therefore need to keep abreast of the latest developments in their field. This may include using new computer-aided translation (CAT) tools, understanding localization technologies or adopting best practices in project management.

Ongoing training is therefore an essential part of their work. Project managers regularly attend training courses and conferences to keep up to date and improve their skills. This willingness to learn and adapt to new trends is what enables them to remain effective and competent in a constantly evolving field.

Conclusion

How much time would you spend on all these tasks? How much would it cost your company? And what would the end result be?

If the image you want to convey is important to you, and you’d rather focus on your core business, don’t delay any longer… Contact us!

Our dedicated project managers play an essential role in relieving the burden on our clients and guaranteeing a turnkey service. Their coordination, expertise and dedication ensure that every translation project is a success.