CAT software works by indexing a document in to a series of meaningful units called segments. Essentially a segment is a sentence, but in some cases it can be a phrase, heading or single word.
Once the document has been segmented, the CAT software stores the translated segments in a client specific database, which is commonly referred to as translation memory. The client specific terminology can then be used as reference for future translations, so when the CAT software comes across the same or similar segment, it will propose the earlier translation.
CAT Software has many advantages. It ensures translated documents are consistent by including common definitions, phrasings and terminology. It accelerates the overall translation process and reduces costs, as translators only have to translate similar segments once. As a client’s translation memory builds, over the course of completing numerous translation projects, the less there is to translate and pay.
As with all technology, no matter how useful and timesaving it may be, the product ultimately depends on the skill and expertise of the operator. Technical and commercial translations require a mother-tongue translator who understands the subject matter. CAT software is not a replacement for using mother-tongue translators, it is designed to support and facilitate them in the translation process.
It should also not be confused with or compared to automatic translation software such as Google Translate. Automatic translation software uses pre-programmed dictionaries and grammar rules to convert text into a different language. This type of software is unable to resolve ambiguities in text or decipher for grammatical idioms and as such they tend to produce documents that contain too many mistakes to be suitable for professional purposes.
If you would like further information or to discuss the virtues of using CAT software please contact myself, Ann Elphick on +44 (0) 1785 255067 or email ann.elphick@fls-ltd.com
Foreign Language Services Ltd is a specialist commerce and technical translation agency based in Stafford. It employs eight people, works with over fifty mother-tongue translators and can translate any type of document in any language combination.
