What: Machine translation uses software to automatically translate text from one language to another. During optional post-editing, the output is reviewed and may be amended by a human translator to improve accuracy and readability. Technical accuracy cannot be guaranteed. There would be no application of a company-specific tone of voice.

How: Imprimatur uses its own machine translation engine and those of other vendors; Imprimatur selects the best performing or most appropriate engine for a language pair or subject matter, as the output for each language varies between systems. Imprimatur has experience with statistical, rules-based and neural engines. Machine translation can be supported with the use of translation memory tools. Translated content can be published and returned in the same format as received.

Why: Machine translation can be used to obtain a low-cost comprehension of foreign-language content (gisting).

Example: Imprimatur uses edited machine translation to translate large volume owner and service literature which needs to be produced in restricted timescales.

What: Human translation communicates the precise meaning of a text from one [source] language to another [target], where the translator is faithful to the original meaning. Technical accuracy should be expected. There would be limited application of a company-specific tone of voice.

How: Imprimatur would select a panel of mother tongue translators domiciled in the target market and with specific experience in the subject matter. During initial recruitment, translators would be provided with a test piece. In the first instance, the test piece would be assessed by Imprimatur using a matrix to record errors. Only two or three tested translators in each language would be put forward to the client for final selection. Translation is supported by translation memory tools. Translation can be reviewed in context showing updates and an interactive live preview. Translated content can be published and returned in the same format as received.

Why: Translation is an essential requirement for companies selling products in foreign countries. For all customer-facing or important internal communications, translation should be the minimum quality level required.

Example: Owner handbooks, service manuals and diagnostics are translated by human translators to ensure technical accuracy and precise rendering of the original meaning.

What: The translation and adaptation of a software application for use in other languages and markets. Localisation involves translating the user interface, the application’s help systems, user documentation and training materials.

How: In addition to translating the software resource files, Imprimatur also takes responsibility for the more complex aspects of software localisation, including re-mapping of shortcut keys, compiling help systems, testing localised versions on native-language operating systems, and delivery of Computer-Based Training (CBT) materials including audio & video content, and interactive learning modules. Imprimatur uses dedicated tools for software localisation and employs agile processes for project management so that customers can develop and modify their software applications right up to the limits of the project deadline, whilst not compromising the delivery of the localised versions.

Why: Localised software is better received and more widely used in foreign-language markets than untranslated applications. This leads to increased product sales and higher customer satisfaction.

Example: Full localisation of an infotainment system including testing and certifying the applications under a wide range of current and legacy operating systems.

What: Automated web-service based integrations between your content management systems and our Translation Management System (TMS). Users submit and retrieve content for translation without requiring manual export and import of files.

How: Imprimatur offers standard connectors for CCMS. We integrate directly with SCHEMA ST4 using the COTI protocol. We integrate with file sharing services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, SharePoint and OneDrive. For software localisation we can connect directly to git repositories including those hosted by Github and GitLab and other version control systems such a Bitbucket.

Why: Direct integration with our TMS removes the need to manually export and import content for translation to be sent manually by email or FTP. Instead, we can extract content for translation automatically when new content is published or simply whenever you wish to push content to us. This approach saves time and reduces the likelihood of errors during the import or export process.

Example: Imprimatur integrates directly with the SCHEMA ST4 instance for a motorcycle manufacturer.