Frequently asked questions, here’s the answer
How do I request a translation?
Send an email explaining your project needs, scope, timeline, and goals. Attach the document or media link you want me to work on to your email. I will assess your project and provide a quote. I am always available to talk on the phone if you prefer.
What languages do you translate?
At this time, CLACE translates to and from Spanish and English. If you need translations into other languages, I can activate CLACE's broad network of outstanding language professionals.
How is the cost calculated? Will I be able to know the price before deciding to order the work?
Translation: Of course! Although there are several methods for calculating translation costs, the most widely used, and the one I use, is to apply a rate per translated page (250 words). If you know my rates and the number of words in your text, you can get an idea of the translation cost. However, this estimate will not always be reliable because circumstances can make the project more expensive, i.e., expedited timeline, level of complexity, formatting, labels, complex graphics to be reproduced, and accessibility considerations. Likewise, aspects of a project can reduce cost, i.e., a document that is part of a large project for which previous terminological work has been carried out; the client provides me with parallel documentation that can facilitate translation and generous timelines.
Interpretation: I offer Consecutive or Simultaneous in-person, over the phone (OPI), or Video Remote Interpreting (VRI). Let’s explore your needs!
In what format should I send the text that I need to translate?
Ideally, send it in an editable format. PDF documents are not always convertible, and in those cases, it is impossible to respect the formatting of the original document. Always try to find out if you can get the document in the editable format before ordering it for translation. If you do not have access to the original document, I will work with the document in the available format, and we will reach an agreement on the delivery method.
How long do you need to do a translation?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions, but the answer is different in each case. It will depend on the language combination you request, the text's complexity, length, and whether the client can provide relevant information or supporting documentation. The best thing is that when you order the translation, you let me know when you need it. I will do everything possible to adapt to your deadlines and, if it is not possible to meet the deadline you indicate, I will let you know at that time.
If I have to translate a report every year with variations, but whose base text is the same, will I always have to pay for it as the first time?
No. I keep the translations made in CLACE's database unless the client specifies otherwise. I create a translation memory for each client or for each large project, which allows me to take advantage of the work done, and if the client has given me their feedback and approved the terminology used, the second time the work will be done faster and better, and we will reflect that in the cost.
Can I do something to facilitate the translator's work and make the result more satisfactory?
Of course, yes. You can do several things that greatly facilitate my work and contribute to a higher quality translation.
When you are preparing your documentation, do not forget that the translation work also takes time, that translating is not just putting the words in another language; is to capture the meaning, the intention, the tone. Think how long it has taken you to elaborate your text, choose the right words ... and you will realize that the translator also needs time to think and choose the words that best suit the intention you want to convey. Don't rush the deadlines and have me translate against the clock, because this will be reflected in the quality of the final text.
Make sure to send me information about your document: who is it directed to, what do you intend with it, what is important to highlight, what concepts are fundamental, if there are any concepts that you want to be translated in a specific way ...
If you have parallel texts or similar topics in the language you have asked me to translate into, do not hesitate to make them available. I do all the research work when necessary, but if you can provide that information yourself, I can work faster and with greater precision.
Be available to receive my inquiries. During the translation process, sometimes I have doubts about the meaning of a phrase or a specific term, and nothing better than asking the author of the text, whenever possible. For the quality of the translation, it is essential that there is a communication channel between you -the client- and me -the translator-.
Lastly, make sure to give me your feedback!
Interpreters
Arizona Court Interpreters Association (ACIA)
California Federation of Interpreters (CFI)
California Court Interpreters Association (CCIA)
National Association of Judicial Interpreters and Translators (NAJIT)
Nebraska Association of Translators and Interpreters (NATI)
Tennessee Association of Interpreters (TAPIT)
Colorado Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (CRID)
Sign Language
Colorado Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (CRID)
Conference Interpreters
Colorado Translators Association (CTA)
American Translators Association (ATA)
Translators
California Healthcare Interpreters Association (CHIA)
Cross Cultural Health Care Program
Diversity Rx
National Council on Interpreting in Health Care (NCIHC)
International Medical Interpreters Association (IMIA)
Medical
International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) – USA