What are Translation Management Systems and how to choose one

A translation management system (TMS) is one of the main tools available to manage and control translation processes. It is an essential tool in the optimization of a localization process workflow.

Of course, like any tool, a TMS must have certain characteristics in order for it to be apt for the specific requirements of a company. You must know how to choose the right one to achieve the highest productivity with your translation projects.

What is translation management software?

Translation management software is a computer-based system that manages all phases of the translation process for documents, web pages, mobile applications. etc.

This software features a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) or machine translation (MT) algorithms, as well as other tools for editing and displaying content in the target language.

Consequently, a translation management platform optimizes multilingual projects, providing immediate translation results, assisting in the organization and management of large volumes of content, enabling workflow customization, and real-time monitoring.

Types of translation management software

There are several types of translation project management software, each of which varies in complexity. Here is an outline of what to expect:

• Basic translation management systems. These are less expensive and have quick solutions through an application programming interface.

• Business translation management systems. These are more complete and versatile systems that allow:

• Integration on certain platforms

• Scalability of the translation volume

• Analysis of the localization process by means of reports

• A consistent and branded translation tone

  
  
  

What should you do before choosing a translation management system?

A translation management system is the key strategic element in any localization and translation project. Before choosing, it is necessary to complete 3 basic steps:

• Establish and understand business objectives when implementing translation project management software. For this, it is necessary to define exactly what is required to improve the localization workflow. For example:

• Obtain higher quality translations, but without raising the costs

• Complete highly complex projects very quickly

• Automate localization processes

• Involve the team and find out what each member needs from the localization and translation process, in order to achieve the best possible synergy. It is essential to specifically assess the requirements of the team, as well as:

• Define what needs to be translated (web pages, Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, etc.)

• Establish the number of documents to be translated in a given period of time

• Determine the level of training required for the team to be able to use the TMS effectively

• Ask the TMS provider about the options and features it offers, so that what is useful and what is not can be determined. This is essential for choosing a good translation management system.

What makes a good translation management system?

Good translation project management software can be adapted to your company's specific needs. However, in general, it is essential for a TMS to have the following characteristics:

• Easy to implement. A TMS must be easy to install and simple to configure.

• Easy to use. Good translation project management software should not be complex, and should allow all team members to use it with ease, from beginners to those with a higher skill level.

• Integrated machine translation. It must be able to process large amounts of content instantly.

• High security. A translation management system must provide data protection measures, especially for the processing of confidential and copyrighted documents.

• Fast and helpful support. Reliable support from the TMS provider is one of the keys to optimal performance.

• Fast translation at a lower cost. As a key feature, a translation management platform must make the project fast and accessible. This guarantees saving time and money.

• Tool integration. It is important for a TMS to have a translation interface that will provide access to important tools. For example, in addition to MT, it must have:

• A database (translation memory) for real-time storage of approved translations. By using this feature, matching or similar segments can be reused in future projects.

• A computer-assisted translation tool.

• Scalability. A good translation management system grows along with the localization process.

  
  
  

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About Pangeanic

At Pangeanic, we specialize in natural language processing, and have custom neural machine translation solutions for businesses.

We developed the ECO platform for the translation of various types of documents (PowerPoint, Excel, etc.), both locally and using cloud technology.

At Pangeanic, we always combine the best of artificial and human intelligence for fast and secure translation. Contact us. We will adapt to the needs of your company.