ISO 17100 is the international standard that defines specific requirements for translation services, focusing on both translators and project managers. Since the introduction of this standard, service providers have had to comply with stricter guidelines to guarantee the quality of their translations. In this blog post, you will learn about the new requirements for translators and project managers and how they are changing the way the industry works.
What is ISO 17100?
Die ISO 17100 ist eine internationale Norm, die einen Rahmen für die Bereitstellung von Übersetzungsdienstleistungen schafft. Sie ersetzt den vorherigen Standard EN 15038 und ist seit Mai 2015 in Kraft. Ziel ist es, einen klaren, strukturierten Prozess für Übersetzungsprojekte zu gewährleisten, der die Qualität der Endprodukte sicherstellt und die Zusammenarbeit zwischen Übersetzern, Lektoren und Projektmanagern optimiert.
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Requirements for Translators
Under ISO 17100, translators must now demonstrate specific qualifications. These requirements are significantly stricter than those of previous standards. Translators must meet at least one of the following qualifications:
A completed degree in translation studies
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in translation studies is an essential proof of a translator’s professional skills.Equivalent qualifications in another relevant field
If translators have not completed translation studies but are trained in another field and can demonstrate translation experience, they may also meet the ISO 17100 requirements.Professional experience as a translator
At least five years of professional experience in translation is another way to meet the requirements of ISO 17100, especially for specialist translators without formal qualifications.
Requirements for Project Managers
Project managers play a central role in the translation process, and ISO 17100 highlights this even more clearly. In addition to the ability to organize and manage projects efficiently, there are now specific requirements:
Knowledge in the field of translation
Project managers must have a basic understanding of the translation process in order to communicate effectively with translators and clients. This includes knowledge of specialized terminology, the use of CAT tools, and the importance of quality assurance.Responsibility for Quality Assurance
Project managers are responsible for coordinating quality assurance. This means they must ensure that every translation project meets the required standards before it is delivered to the client. This includes revision and review by independent professionals.Efficient Communication Skills
In addition to technical expertise, great importance is placed on communication. Project managers must act as intermediaries between clients, translators, and other stakeholders to ensure that all project requirements are clearly understood and implemented.
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Process Optimization and Quality Assurance
A key aspect of ISO 17100 is the optimization of workflows and quality assurance. Translation service providers must establish a clearly defined process for every phase of a project, which includes the following:
- Pre-translation: Preparation and planning of the project, including the clarification of client requirements.
- Translation: Execution of the actual translation work by qualified specialist translators.
- Revision: Each text must be reviewed by an independent editor whose native language is the target language and who has expertise in the relevant field.
- Project Completion: Quality control and delivery of the final product to the client.
Benefits of ISO 17100 Certification
For companies offering translation services, ISO 17100 certification brings numerous advantages:
- Improved Quality: Clients can be confident that they will receive high-quality translations that have undergone strict reviews and quality checks.
- Efficiency: A standardized process reduces errors and delays, leading to more efficient project execution.
- Competitive Advantage: Translation agencies certified according to ISO 17100 enjoy a competitive advantage, as clients are increasingly looking for certified service providers.