We are proud to announce that Espresso Translations, a translation agency offering translation services in 150+ languages, has become one of the few ISO Certified translation companies on the language services market.
While there is no official requirement for us as a company to obtain this certification, we felt that the standard would help us to improve our translation management processes and subsequently offer an even better service to our clients.
What is ISO 17100:2015?
In 2015, a translation services standard was put into place, issued by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). Introduced as ISO 17100:2015, it is an internationally-recognised translation standard that focuses on translation quality and consumer satisfaction.
It provides standard requirements for resources, core processes and other elements required for the provision of quality translation services that meet certain specifications. It is also a means by which we can demonstrate our capabilities in terms of resources and processes to deliver a language service that exceeds our client’s expectations.
There are key improvements with this new standard compared to the previous EN 15038 system that was in place. The primary difference is the concept of domain confidence. The ISO standard requires an ability to offer translation services in the target language, using an appropriate style, terminology and methodology.
Let’s talk about what that means for you if you require translation services today.
What Does the ISO 17100:2015 Specify for Quality and Delivery?
Translation companies that receive certification under the ISO standard must meet four key points of service. These key points directly affect the quality and delivery of the translation services that are requested of the company.
#1. Corporate Resources
There are specific standards established by the ISO standard for professional competencies of project managers, translators, reviewers, and editors. There is a requirement within the certification which involves maintenance and updates of the required competencies as well.
#2. Processes and Activities
The ISO standard includes specific requirements for translation companies regarding consumer requirements for quotation, questions, and feasibility. This section also covers agreements made by companies and their clients, how client-related information is handled for translation projects, and administrative activities which may be required. Any relevant factor to the project, from linguistic specification to technical components, is covered under this key point.
#4. Post-Production
This key point is the most exciting change that has come with the ISO 17100:2015 standard when compared to previous certification options. This section highlights client interactions with the translation company. It covers client feedback, claims, and how possible modifications to the translation should be handled. A client satisfaction assessment is included, as is project closure. It creates a standard upon which potential clients can expect certain outcomes due to the ISO requirements that are outlined for certification to be offered.
Then, to maintain the ISO certification, regular compliance audits, as well demonstrations of continual improvement, are required.
Professional Competencies Are Required for ISO Certification
Under the ISO 17100:2015 standard, translation service companies are required to work exclusively with translators who provide proof of competency. The guidelines specify that a translator must provide documented proof that they meet at least one of the following requirements.
- The translator is a graduate with a recognised qualification in translation from an institution of higher learning.
- The translator has 2 years of full-time professional experience in translating and has earned a recognised graduate qualification in a field other than translation.
- The translator can provide 5 years of full-time professional experience.
An earned degree from an institution of higher learning does not need to be specifically mentioned as a “translation degree” to qualify under the ISO standard. Depending upon the country of origin for the translator, a degree in modern languages, linguistic studies, or a specific language may also qualify.
Bilingual editors or revisers have an additional requirement which must be met under this certification. They must also have experience in revisions or translation in the field of specialisation in which the revision is being conducted.
Competencies outlined by the ISO quality standards include linguistic competence, textual competence, and research competence in the source and target languages. Information processing, cultural knowledge and competence, and technical competence are also included within the standard.
Services Required Under ISO Certification
To become a certified translation organisation, the ISO standard requires specific minimum translation and revision services to be offered.
Translation services must be provided by a translator with the documented appropriate competencies. The translator will perform an initial translation on the provided documents, then check their own work for errors.
Bilingual editing services, “revision,” is provided by a person other than the translator. They revise the translation, using source language content as the foundation of the service, to ensure that the translated document is able to meet its obligations.
What You Can Expect from Espresso Translations
Receiving the ISO 17100:2015 certification means that you have a guarantee that our services follow a recognised standard while meeting your translation requirements.
It means that the translation phase and the proofreading/editing phase of your translation project will be handled by different translators.
It also means that when you choose Espresso Translations, you’re going to be working with people who are appropriately qualified to handle your project. You are guaranteed to be working with translators that can take on your project in a manner that is professional, experienced, and effective.
You will receive a final product with the lowest margin of error possible and your confidentiality will always be assured.
Thanks to our ISO 17100:2015 certification, you know that you’re working with a reliable language partner. You know that you will receive a consistent, uniform translation whenever our services are required.
The style, tone, and character of your text will be preserved when you choose Espresso Translations for your next project.
Anyone can use machine translation to create a quick document; said access to open translation has made our world a smaller place. It has also broadened the possibility of miscommunication between cultures. ISO certified translation services reduce this risk while maintaining the integrity of your text and privacy.
If you’re looking for translation services now, then our team would love to hear from you. Request a quote, sign-up for our newsletter to receive a special discount, and together we’ll move your project forward.
