When you know a translator is necessary, then you start looking for a professional to handle the job, but it is not as simple as checking Google and going with the first name that pops up. This is even more true when you need a specific type of translation completed. Subject-specific translation, like medical or professional Christian translation, requires a translator that is not only well trained in translating, but that is highly familiar with the content area. Whether you are looking for a Christian translator for the first time, not having a great experience, and searching for something new, or need to expand into a new topic area with your first Christian work than finding the right Christian translator is highly important. This article will help you understand how to get started.

Finding a Provider

Finding a provider for book translation services is not difficult, but finding the right provider takes a bit of research. With numerous translation services available 24 hours a day, some offering hundreds of language options, it is important to find one that can not just complete your project but complete it accurately. To do this, check the following areas.

Experience

New companies may offer deals and specials, which is great, but for your translation, a Christian translator who has been in business for several years is best. When a company is able to stay in business for several years, it is likely because they have done a good job on their translation and offered support to their clients. When doing an initial search, rule out all any companies that are under three years old and look for more experience. Those with more years in service will also be more likely to offer extended translation services. Check out the customer reviews as well. There should be a mix of positive, negative, and middle ground reviews. There should also be many reviews as showing just a few means they are monitoring and removing poor reviews or have very limited experience.

Native Speaking Translators

Once you have narrowed down experienced companies, this is the most important area to research. Whether searching for professional Christian translators or professional general translators, make sure those doing the translation are native speakers or are fluent in the target language. This typically means they have lived in an environment in which the target language was the dominant language for a year or more and can fluently converse with a native speaker. This is important for translation and localization purposes. A native speaker will be able to understand how specific wording comes across and affects meaning in the target language. Good translators can make word choices without altering meaning which is of the highest importance in Christian translation ministries and other niche markets. This requires the translation of material that has specific meanings that need to be conveyed appropriately.

Price and Availability

Having a book translated means you likely have a budget to complete the task. Knowing how a company prices different types of translation is important to keep your budget. Some companies charge by the project, some by the word. Most companies will charge extra for lesser-known languages as trained translators are harder to find for those languages. Many companies will also offer discounts if multiple projects are necessary, especially with the same translator. When checking on prices, also look into availability. Translation companies tend to exist online because they are dealing with multiple translators in different time zones around the world. Make sure you can contact the company any time day or night and receive a timely answer. This is important for last minutes jobs and flexible delivery times. When setting a time for a translation, do not be too ambitious. Allow enough time to translate the amount of material you need to get the job done well.

Translation Type

After narrowing down your company options to two or three, check to see what type of translation the company relies on. Translation can be fully human, computer-based, or a hybrid of both. For accurate translation that also maintains the message of the text, look for 100% human translation. As you discuss translation type, check on how the company maintains confidentiality. You are sharing your work with someone you have never met and in many translations, highly sensitive material is shared for translation. An assurance of confidentiality is necessary. 

Editing

Finally, find out the companies’ process for editing and second looks. Ask if these services are part of the base price or will be additional costs later on. Even if you are not fluent in the target language, it is always best to have someone who is reviewing the translation for accuracy.

Though the entire process may seem overwhelming, it is possible to find top-level companies that are also affordable. Use the list above to ask questions, stick with a budget, and have your work translated in the medium you need. Then sit back and watch as your work makes it into new markets.