What is a translation memory system?
A translation memory system is a programme that saves text segments from the source language and the corresponding translations produced by our specialist translators and then suggests their usage when identical or similar sentences appear in later texts. Translating a document and saving segments of source and target language text in a translation memory forms the basis for the subsequent translation of similar or identical texts.
A translation memory system is essentially a linguistic prompting system, a kind of ‘extension’ to one’s memory. This should not be confused with machine translation, where the translation is generated by a computer programme.
Projects suited to translation memory usage
Translation memories are particularly useful when translating texts requiring regular updates, containing repetitive expressions or that are very similar to other texts.
Examples of suitable projects:
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Technical manuals and product catalogues
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Instruction manuals
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Websites, software, and help files
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Documents concerning different versions of a product by one particular manufacturer, or similar products by different manufacturers
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Documents composed in controlled language
Fundamental to the use of a translation memory system is that the texts requiring translation are available in an editable electronic format. The team at KERN AG will then check whether processing with a translation memory system would be advantageous, and prepares the documents accordingly.
Our team would be more than happy to perform an alignment on material previously translated without the use of a translation memory system. The aim of this alignment is to develop a translation memory database for future translation projects and to increase consistency with documents still requiring translation.
Consistent corporate language
Using translation memory systems in the different departments of a company promotes the development of consistent company-specific language. This will significantly strengthen your company’s internal and external corporate image, guaranteeing the preservation of your corporate identity.
Standardising company knowledge
In addition to aiding the development of consistent corporate language, translation memory systems help develop and consolidate the knowledge of individual employees.
Improved quality – simplified production
Translation memory systems allow company-specific expressions and terminology to be used throughout many different types of document. It will be easier for your international branches to produce a translation should they have participated in the formation of a translation memory database from the offset due to the high level of consistency.
Greater linguistic consistency
When it is necessary to employ several translators or edit a variety of documents, using a translation memory system ensures that the translations will be phrased in a uniform manner. Moreover, it means translations no longer need to be checked for linguistic consistency, saving you both time and money.
