Computer-aided translation

Computer-aided translation tools can help you as a translator with speed and accuracy while translating. Even if you're just using a word-processing program to help you in your translations, you're taking advantage of computer-aided software and tools. Computer-aided translation (also referred to as computer-assisted translation) often encompasses a lot more than just using word-processing software, though, which I'll talk about in just a little bit.

First of all, it's important to understand that computer-aided translation is different than machine translation. In machine translation, a computer takes charge of the translation, with the human looking over after the translation is done to provide editing. In computer-aided translation, the human translator does the translation while the computer (or computer program) merely facilitates the process.

Translators use computer-aided translation to varying degrees. The most basic level of computer-assisted translation is word-processing software. With word-processing software, you can do very simple tasks with your translations, such as basic formatting, spell-checking, word count, and limited dictionary lookup. Most word-processing software programs are not specifically designed for translators which is why the tools are so basic.

At the other end of the spectrum are translation software suites, or computer programs bundled together. These software bundles are specifically designed to aid translators and so include translator-specific tools in addition to those mentioned above, such as terminology management tools, and tools for creating and using specialized dictionaries.

The real question to consider when thinking about purchasing computer-aided translation software is whether or not the costs (both in money and time spent learning the programs) are worth it. The answer to this question will vary among translators, but I have never gone out and purchased any translation software suites. In my work I'm able to get by with your average word processing software.

Now, that being said, there are many translators that use translation-specific software to help them in their work. They might do really large projects where it's crucial to have terminology-management capabilities. A terminology tool can be a lifesaver when doing huge projects and in this case a software suite is well-justified.

Before you decide whether to invest in a translation software program, I suggest that first you look at the type of work you do. Are your translations mostly short text that don't require you to manage your vocabulary and set up specialized dictionaries or do you do large projects where that is essential? Second, if you decide that computer-aided translation software will help you, download a couple of trial versions from different vendors. Test them out and see which one you like the best and which has the best deal. Below are some links to downloadable trial versions of a few popular computer-aided translation tools. Check 'em out and happy translating.

• Trados- Scroll down a there is a downloadable version of Trados 7. To buy a copy will cost you anywhere between $700-$900.

• Wordfast- A translation memory tool available for Microsoft Word on PC and Mac. This tool can be downloaded for free and can be used for short to medium range jobs. For larger jobs, you can purchase a license.

• Déjà Vu- You can get a 30-day evaluation for their product. The price for their tools will run you between $600-$1500.