Computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools have helped millions of translators work faster to produce better translations. They are continuing to evolve and develop, with new products on the market every year. One such product is SDL Trados, the most common translation tool with many useful functions, which is currently being used along with others by CSOFT translators and linguists. In case the positive testimonies from translators about the effectiveness of CAT tools aren’t enough, here are 7 more reasons why you should be using CAT tools, too.
1. Increase Speed
With tight deadlines and demanding clients, speed matters. CAT tools like translation memory help translators maximize their speed, with daily word counts often increasing by 50%. The increased speed means more free time for you and more satisfied clients.
2. Improve Quality
In addition to speeding up the process, translation memory also ensures that you maintain internal consistency throughout your document. You can translate the same phrase the same way every time, an ability that is especially important in scientific and technical documentation.
3. Ensure Consistency
CAT tools don’t just help improve internal consistency. For projects with many translators working from different places, ensuring consistency with translators can be a nightmare. With CAT tools, ensuring that translations are consistent is easy, and translators don’t have to waste time coordinating how to translate each phrase every time.
4. Work with Greater Efficiency
Only type what needs to be typed! If segments or terms are repeated throughout a document, the CAT tools will do the work for you, giving your fingers a well-earned rest and saving valuable time. Since you don’t have to worry about typing every word, you can enjoy crafting beautiful language.
5. Guarantee Accuracy
Thanks to many shared terminology databases, you can be sure that even the most difficult terms and phrases are translated correctly. Worried about technical translations or tricky turns of phrase? Worry no longer when you use CAT tools.
6. Easy Formatting and Review
When it comes to publishing translated works, it can be difficult to fit language into the same arrangement as the original text. CAT tools can help make formatting and reviewing translated work much easier. Specify the spatial arrangement that you desire, and the tools will help you find a way to make the words fit.
7. Easy Project Management
Translation management systems, such as UbrTa, can help you keep track of client requests and payment agreements. No more miscommunication about project deadlines or the need to chase down your client for payment. This all means you get to focus on what you love most: translation.
At CSOFT we endeavor to use CAT tools to enhance the translation process in terms of speed and efficiency. We are always looking out for methods to further equip our translators and linguists, which means we are always aware of the pros and cons of the CAT tools that are on offer. We do however pride ourselves on providing optimum human translation and reaching a middle ground between the possibilities of CAT tools and the expertise of our own translators for the most effective translations possible.
Written by John Wawrose – Senior Writer at CSOFT International
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