by Jen Weaver
You are ready to move forward with your translation project, but despite your preparation you still feel a bit in the dark about what steps will be involved in creating your translation. The 'unknowns' can make you feel a bit fearful about moving forward. So let's bring some light to the situation, and uncover those foggy areas of the translation process. We have broken out the steps to a typical e-learning project below to help you better understand what will occur with your project.
Project Scope: Translation of an e-learning module from US English into Chinese
Evaluation
- Analysis of material from the technical and cultural viewpoint to determine objectives, target audience and culture-specific content.
- Evaluation of source material, layout, as well as the quantity and type of graphics used.
- Project assessment to determine frequently used vocabulary, register, file format, etc.
- Selection of team components, tools and software to be used.
- Overall project assessment including identification of Professional Voice Talents comparable to project goals.
- Research and provision of Voice Talent demo recordings from voice bank.
- Casting of Voice Talents based on client approval.
Preparation
- Extracting of the text from its original file format in (InDesign, PPT, etc). This includes preparation of graphics, graphs, and charts.
- Transcribing (if it is not already done) the audio script for recording to include time stamp.
Translation, Editing, & Proofreading
- Translation of the text from the source file.
- Editing and Proofreading by professional target language (native speaker) editors.
Client Review
- Delivery of proofs to Client for internal review.
- Review and one round of input of client changes.
Voice Over Recording
- Approved voice talent will record in a studio and will be directed by a studio director who is also a native in the language.
- Use of fully digital, industrial strength Pro Tools recording system.
- SP capabilities, time coded DAT, Neumann microphones, Industrial Acoustics sound booth.
Audio Client Review
Implementation of one round of client changes pre-delivery of completed files (edits can be pronunciation preference, slower speed, faster speed, error in script, etc).
Voice Over Recording of requested changes
Requested changes will be implemented and finalized, following the same process as Voice Over Recording.
Localization Engineering/Desktop publishing
- Localization engineers/desktop publishers will ensure all components of the project have been fully localized.
- All graphics/visuals will be formatted into the target language.
- Localization engineers will sync audio files to the animations, ensuring all files are running properly.
- Language tester will do a final QA of the end product, checking that all audio clips are clear and running to match the animation on screen.
Delivery
Delivery of final file (Java, XML, HTML, other formats), tested to ensure all localized components are in working order (audio is synced with animation, etc).
Reliable translation providers will use a translation process that adheres to basic industry quality best practices. Don't be afraid to ask your vendor about their internal translation and quality management processes. A reputable vendor will be proud to share this information with you.
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If you would like to learn best practices for managing translation projects, contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions.
