By Aastha Bisht

Technology now reaches almost every field and changes how we interact on a global platform. This article looks at the two leading technologies in translation, CAT tools and machine translation, and why they support human translators instead of replacing them.

What IT means for translation

The Oxford English Dictionary defines information technology as "the study or use of systems (especially computers and telecommunications) for storing, retrieving and sending information." Its use keeps growing, and the translation industry is no exception.

Some people see translation as a word-to-word conversion from one language to another and wonder what role technology can play. Translation is broader than that, and IT makes the process more effective and efficient. Translations today are faster, more accurate and easier to produce.

The two leading technologies

CAT tools

CAT stands for computer-assisted (or computer-aided) translation. Tools such as Wordfast and memoQ increase the effectiveness and productivity of translation and keep the work organised. They also include a spell checker to improve quality.

Machine translation

Machine translation (MT) can translate whole documents in one go. Its use is selective, but it is an excellent aid when professionals edit its output. Combining human skill with software gives better and more efficient results. MT has also lowered costs, mainly on longer projects, and many translation services now use it.

What IT adds

• Time. Better technology makes translation faster without hurting accuracy and quality. It helps translators and service providers take on more assignments and deliver them on time.
• Connectivity. Many tools take part in a translation job, and they must be connected to share information, documents and data. This saves time and effort. Better connectivity at reasonable prices has also made translation services quicker and more affordable.
• Quality. Digital tools help with quality management. They give professionals quality control, which raises accuracy and keeps the work organised.

Tools are an aid, not a replacement

Technology has sped up the whole translation process and improved results. But these tools are an aid and not a replacement for human translators. They help us do many tasks well, and the human translator remains invaluable. Knowledge combined with technology can reap great results.

Related reading

Read Information technology in translation: quality, productivity and connectivity.