Frequently Asked Questions Related to Our Translations Services

How does your translation process/service work?

Once you have hired us as your translation service of choice, we make your project a priority and work diligently to complete it. We assign it to one of our highly-qualified experienced translators. Your translator will then examine the project and make an assessment. If there are any questions or discrepancies we contact you for specific answers. The translator then translates your project and completes the work to your specifications. We receive your project and it is proofread and rechecked for accuracy and consistency. Once your project is completed we e-mail it to you so you receive it in good order.

What is localization?

Localization refers to any product (ie. software, website, physical product, testing) that you wish to translate for a particular market, culture or country. For example if you wish to localize a website for the Mexican market, you wouldn't write it with the idioms and expressions that are used in Spain even though both markets understand variations of the same language. Localization takes into account specific factors which are native to a particular culture or place. Variations of localization occur but contacting our office is probably best to have further questions answered.

Why should I use your service?

It's simple, we're great at what we do … translation. We focus on taking care of our customers with our exceptional customer service. Our representatives are standing by to take your call and help you. At Technovate Translations we always go the extra step to make sure that you're happy with the service you receive. We're located in North America and our translators are all highly qualified and pass a stringent of tests to work for us.

How do I get a free quote from you?

There are two ways to get a free quote. The first and quickest is to fill out the quick quote form to your right. We'll contact you shortly after to discuss it. The second way is to call our toll free number and ask one of our friendly customer service reps. We have live representatives standing by 24-hours a day during the week to answer your phone call.

How long should I expect to wait to get a quote?

Depending on the project requested we can quote you within just 15 minutes. With more difficult projects we will call you and let you know we received your information and we're working diligently to get you a quote in a matter of hours to you.

Who are your translators?

Our translators are professional individuals with years of experience in the industry. They are educated linguists who have either studied to become a translator/interpreter or have the relative education and the experience combination to be considered a highly qualified professional. Rest assured that our translators are some of the most talented in this industry.

Where are your translators located?

Our translators are located in a variety of countries spanning the world but the vast majority of translators are located in Canada and United States and countries in Europe. We work closely with all of our translators to ensure the high quality of our work you receive. When there is a need for localization into a particular market we try and match our clients with translators in their particular country of localization.

What are your rates/prices?

Our rates vary depending on the type of translation, the size of the project, the languages involved, and the specialized knowledge required, but we list our rates for the 10 most common languages we translate into.

Why use a human translator versus a machine translator (software)?

When you use a human translator over a machine translator you assure yourself that your document will be correct and consistent. Our translator will ensure that the content is consistent with your project's target language. Machine translation serves you better when you're translating something simple, repetitive or when accuracy doesn't matter. When you need to ensure that the text sounds and feels professional then you definitely should order our translation service.

What if I'm not satisfied with the work that was done for me?

The first thing you should do is contact our office and let us know exactly what you did not like about the service. Please be as specific as possible, our purpose is to satisfy our clients so they think of us first the next time they need translation. We'll work with you to correct the situation and make you a long-term business client. We win our clients through our after-sale service; let us show you the "Technovate Difference".

Why do you ask how my translation document will be used?

When you order our translation service we will always ask you what the purpose of the translated document will be. This allows us to determine the rate, type of translation needed as well as the most qualified translator to complete your project. It also allows us to ask follow-up questions that will help the translator complete your project correctly the first time and avoid any mistakes.

What is a certified translator/Interpreter?

The American Translators Association (ATANET.org) describes it best this way: "One whose interpretation or translation competence has been tested...." Certificates of language proficiency or credentials for foreign-language correspondents or teachers, for example, are not translating and interpreting credentials, even if translating or interpreting was included in the test. However, what most people want to know is that you will do a good job and if you can be trusted to complete the work efficiently. The majority of our translators are freelancers that have received certification in their particular language of specialization, so you can feel confident you'll receive quality.

What is machine translation?

Machine translation refers to automated translation performed with a software program without the assistance of a human translator.

Does your service employ machine translation?

NO. We only employ human translation with every project we accept. A machine can not translate material contextually, it takes the words and changes them to the literal translation, so to a native reader, sentences become undecipherable. Some less scrupulous services employ machine translation and then have an editor recheck the work which doesn't do much for the translated materials reliability and consistency. When the translation services are charging substantially lower than the rest don't think a professional translator would translate for such a low rate.

Can you provide same-day service?

Definitely!!! We thrive on being able to help you with any project and any deadline! Try us by calling us 24-hours.

What is the difference between a language translator and an interpreter?

A translator works with a document and translates from one language to another through written text, an interpreter orally translates between two speakers who speak different languages.

How many languages do you support?

We translate and interpret in 100 plus languages and dialects. You can see our full list by clicking on the relevant link.

Will your company sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement?

Yes. We will definitely sign an NDA and we will also have our translator sign it.

Why should I pay for translation when I can get it free on the Internet?

If you want your translated document to be professional, accurate and consistent you should really consider using a paid translation service rather than risking an inferior product.

Should I use an individual translator or a full-service Translation company?

The choice is up to you. However, we feel it's best if you're a business to order through a translation firm to develop a relationship and be able to translate into the language of your choice.

Can I send you more files with my translation request?

Definitely. Feel free to send us any files you feel are relevant in assessing your project costs and requirements.

How is your translated document delivered?

We can deliver it in a variety of formats. Most clients prefer to receive a Word document attached by email. However, other forms of delivery are fax, PDF, Illustrator, and other desktop publishing programs.

How do you charge for translation?

Our translation rates are based on your document's word count as well as the type of translation service needed. Rates may vary if your document is a business letter versus a legal document. A legal translation of a real estate purchase requires more specialized knowledge than a translation for a wedding speech.

Is there a cost difference in having something translated into a foreign language from English compared to translating from a foreign language into English?

Yes. There are many more native English speaking translators available than native translators from other countries which means that having something translated from a foreign language into English is less expensive as there is a larger pool to draw from.

How long will it take to receive my translation?

It depends on length of your document as well as type of translation. In our case our average translation takes about 3 days with an average of about 1000-2000 words per day. We also offer a rush service for your translated documents if you're pressed for time in receiving them.

Who performs my translation order?

We employ human translators who are experienced in translations and are experts in the translated foreign language. We do not use machine translation or translation software. We work with a team of translators that are handpicked based on their abilities and talents. A translator must meet our hiring standards in order to be able to work on translation projects.

Can we certify and notarize translations?

Yes we can. Many official documents need to be certified and notarized by a qualified, licensed, notary public provided we are in possession of original documents.

How many languages do we translate into?

We translate in over 100 languages and dialects which also include more obscure dialects. Any language with an oral or written set of rules we can translate into.

How will I receive the translation?

We provide translated documents in a popular document format (ex: Word or Notepad) as well as a hard copy if desired. We're able to deliver your translated document via email, fax or courier. If you have a preferred method of transmission or delivery not listed here let us know as we can accommodate special requests.

Will my documents remain confidential?

All documents are treated as confidential. However, a non-disclosure agreement can be arranged upon asking.

Will my document be formatted for print?

We can accommodate special formatting upon request at an additional charge.

How do I pay for my translation?

We accept cash, credit card, PayPal, and wire transfers.