In part one, we talked about just some of the differences between direct translation services for audio and video files, compared with foreign language transcription services, followed by transcript translation services (or document translation). In part two, we will look at even more factors, to help you decide which translation service works best for you and your budget.
Translation and Transcription Quotes
Transcription/Translation
Your quote for foreign transcription services will be given upfront as a cost per audio/video minute plus VAT. Your quote for foreign language translation services will need to be added onto this cost, but before your transcript is ready, this amount will be a basic estimate, as word count cannot be confirmed until there is a written document to work with.
Direct Translation
For direct translation, costs are charged on a per audio/video minute basis, so your final quote will be confirmed and agreed before work commences. As well as media length, this quote will be based on subject matter, number of speakers and video/audio quality.
Transcription and Translation Timescales
Transcription/Translation
Due to the need for more than one linguist to work on your files, and the fact that both transcription and translation is required, this translation method requires more time so is not usually the best option for short timescales, though it’s always worth enquiring.
Direct Translation
For direct video translations and audio translations, one linguist can take on and complete your project. This option is great for short deadlines, urgent work and quick turnarounds.
Translation and Transcription Quality Checks/Finished Documents
Transcription/Translation
You will be provided with two documents – one in your source language, e.g. Spanish transcription, and the other the translated document, e.g. Spanish to English translation. Having copies of both the original video transcript and translated document means that you will have a reference document to work with for quality checks, edits and changes you might need to make.
Direct Translation
You will only receive a document in your target language, so for example, for your Spanish video translation, you will only receive an English document for your Spanish to English translation. You may consider that you only require a translation of your video, but it’s important to remember, if you are looking to make edits to your videos, or need to locate any sections for quality, to proofread or to confirm information, you will have no reference material, but will need to work with your original media (which may be difficult if you have no knowledge of the source language).
Translation and Transcription Services – To Summarise:
Transcription and translation services are best for the highest standards of quality and accuracy, for those who need both a source and target language document, and also where edits can be easily made in the future without needing to return to translators for more help.
Direct translation services are best for a low cost, quick turnarounds on files that need only translation with a target language document provided, but quality and accuracy may be slightly compromised and future editing of your documents may not be quite so straightforward.
If you would like more information about our transcription services, translation services, captioning services for the deaf and hard of hearing or foreign language subtitling services, why not get in touch today? We are available 7 days a week and always happy to help. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
