What does ... mean? Translating The written translation of a text from a source language* into a target language*. Interpreting The oral translation of a text from a source language* into a target language*. Source language Language in which the source text (original) is written. Target language Language into which the source text is to be translated. Parallel text Text example written in the target language, edited by a native speaker and reflecting the text specific common usage (structure, idiom, "jargon") to be borne in mind when writing the target text (translation). Background text Text allowing acquisition of both the specific technical and the background knowledge necessary for the translation. Documentary translation Translation following the wording of the source text while covering the structures of the source language by means of the target language. Functional translation Oriented both toward the source text and the text specific common usage of the target language. The translation is formulated with the linguistic and cultural expectations of the target audience in mind. Adaptation of contents is necessary to fulfil the function defined in the order. Adaptation The source text is adapted to the target function, following either formal and/or contents criteria. Additions or cuts must be agreed beforehand (e.g. translation of flowing text in a handbook, travel guides etc. to be published in several languages, using the same layout). Localisation Linguistic/cultural adaptation and translation of software applications, technical descriptions, instructions for use etc. for other local markets. Technical writing Writing of texts oriented toward the needs of users, target groups and the target culture. Version "ready for the press" Translation complying with the rules and conventions of the target language and the communicative use in the target culture, both in general terms and concerning linguistic criteria (grammar, syntax, idiom, style etc.) - written or proof read by native speakers. "Suitable for print" versions must be identified. Standard version Translation complying with the rules and conventions of the target language, concerning the above mentioned criteria. Full compliance with latest terminology in a particular technical field. A standard version in its original form is not ready for the press but subject to prior technical and/or editorial revision. Standard versions must be identified. Working version Translation complying essentially with the target language concerning the above mentioned criteria. Technical terms may be replaced by descriptions. For individual designations alternatives may be indicated. A working version is in no case ready for the press. Working versions must be identified. Calculation method The calculation of translation costs is based on the version in the target language, i.e. on the text produced by the translator. The actual costs of a translation may thus vary by some 10-15% from the preview. The costs are calculated per standard line using the following formula: Characters (including blanks)/55 x line price E.g.: 22305 characters/55 = 405.54 (406 lines) x 1.3 € How do I order? Order processing Before an order is passed or acknowledged, both customer and service provider must clarify the following questions: 1. Quantity and quality of the source text: the customer transmits the service provider either the entire source text, a representative extract or sufficient information 2. Provision of documents: the customer furnishes the service provider with existing terminologies, translations, parallel* and/or background texts* 3. Definition of target text: agreement on a suitable for print*, standard* or working version* (Unless otherwise agreed, the service rendered refers to a functional translation in standard version) 4. Deadline: Deadline indicated and agreed with translator 5. Price: We will inform you on our standard rates upon request. Contact info@languages.at. Please ask us for our special rates for larger projects. How long will it take? Translating involves the following steps: - Analysis of source text - Browsing through all available information - In some cases further research - In some cases contacting the customer or other experts for details on contents or technical and terminology aspects, keeping the strictest secrecy* - Translation in-house or outsourcing to a partner Can I rely on you? Deadlines Deadlines are agreed to be kept to. For short-term deadlines, our motto is: the customer is king. We do our best to meet your wishes, however tight the deadlines may be. Secrecy We maintain absolute non-disclosure and secrecy policies for all our translations. Will I get value for money? Quality All translations are made by holders of university degrees in translating/interpreting who are also technically qualified and experienced and/or native speakers, and/or proofread by native speakers. Another key factor for quality and deadline control is the co-operation between the customer and the service provider (timely transmission of documents, existing translations and/or terminology consulting). Please bear in mind: quality translations are still and have always been individual pieces of workmanship. Insurance We are insured against any legitimate product liability insurance claims. (In 10 years of existence, no claims have been made against our work).