The most discussed topics in the world of professional translation include the use of CAT tools (Computer-Assisted Translation tools).
These tools, often associated with technical translation, represent a technological support to optimise the work of translators, improving efficiency and consistency.
Although Yellow Hub does not use CAT tools but exclusively the expertise of its own certified translators, we believe that it is important to provide an informative glossary for anyone who wants to understand this technology and its impact on the language sector.
What are CAT Tools?
A CAT tool is a piece of software designed to assist human translators during the translation process. They are not automatic translation systems, but tools that optimise the translator’s work through functions, such as:
- Translation Memories (TM): digital archives that save segments of previously translated text so that they can be reused in future projects.
- Glossary of Terms: collection of approved terms to guarantee uniformity.
- Quality Control Tools: functions that help to find errors or inconsistencies.
- Text Segmentation: subdivision of the contents in blocks for more effective management.
Why are CAT Tools widespread?
CAT tools are used mainly to:
- Increase Consistency: useful above all for technical or regulated texts, where terminological precision is crucial.
- Speed up the Process: when previous translations are reused, the time necessary to complete a project is reduced.
- Facilitate Collaboration: ideal for projects managed by more than one translator, to guarantee uniform style and terminology.
CAT Tools and Technical Translation
In the technical translation sector, in particular for medical, legal and industrial documents, precision is fundamental. While CAT tools can offer useful support, Yellow Hub distinguishes itself for a highly qualified and certified human approach.
Yellow Hub is the first language service company in Italy to obtain EN ISO 13485:2021 certification.
Our processes comply with the specific requirements of the healthcare industry, by offering reliability and compliance for the needs of the sector. This enables us to guarantee extremely high quality translations in line with the standards required by a strictly regulated sector.
Our specialised translators together with certified processes, ensure:
- Terminological precision and compliance with the standards.
- A tailor-made service for the needs of the healthcare, technical and industrial sectors.
- Strict quality control in every phase of the process.
Essential Glossary on CAT Tools
For those who want further information, a glossary of the main terms associated with CAT tools is set out below:
- Translation Memory (TM): database that stores previous translations so that they can be reused in the future.
- Text Alignment: process that associates the original text with that translated to create a translation memory.
- Segmentation: subdivision of text into smaller units, such as sentences or paragraphs, so that they are easier to manage.
- Bilingual File: format that shows the translated text alongside the original text so that it is easier to check.
- Post-Editing: revision of automatic or assisted translations to improve their quality.
Conclusion
CAT tools represent valuable technology in the world of translation, but their value cannot take the place of human expertise and experience. Yellow Hub uses exclusively professional translators and certified processes to guarantee excellent standards.
If you need technical translations or other professional language services, contact us to find out how we can help you to communicate effectively and precisely in the global markets.
