BURG Translations Blog

Variations in application of the ISO 17100 to a translation company

Variations in application of the ISO 17100 to a translation company

About 80% of the time we get the opportunity to earn the business of a new client it is because they were hurt by another language service provider (LSP).  While all LSPs offer the same service, few explain how they do it. As a result, the quality of the translations can vary significantly. Is the translation good? Is it basically Google Translate? Is the right terminology being used?

We interviewed our own ISO 9001 and ISO 17100 auditor to learn how LSPs can possibly offer such variable work if we’re all certified to the same standard.  Below is a summary of the answer: Read more

Application of the principles of the ISO 9001 quality management system to a translation company

Application of the principles of the ISO 9001 quality management system to a translation company

19% of LSPs are certified in the ISO 9001.  As a professional services industry that is driven by process and can create substantial business risk for its clients, this statistic should be concerning to its clients.  Anecdotally, the most common reason I’ve heard for language service providers (LSPs) to forgo the certification is the lack of return on investment (ROI). While it might be difficult to quantify some sources of ROI, the access it provides to clients who are also certified in the ISO 9001 could be reason enough.  This article will focus on the application of the principles of the ISO 9001:2015 quality management system to BURG Translations. Below are the principles: Read more

A language guide for clients

A language guide for clients

Technically, there are over 4,000 languages spoken in the world.  We have found that it can be very helpful for clients to know just a few basics about some languages to make translation projects more understandable.  Translation requests are mostly broken down into three kind:  Read more

When to get involved in a translation project

When to get involved in a translation project

Most buyers of translation services prefer not to be involved in the translation project.  In some cases, this approach is perfectly fine and will not affect the outcome of the project.  However, like tailoring a suit, or in any other personalized professional service, the buyer can benefit greatly by participating – particularly in terms of cost-effectiveness.  This article will define when it makes sense for buyers to participate in a translation project. The criteria in a project are: Read more

Why document type matters in language translations

Why document type matters in language translations

Many of our larger clients use us for a variety of reasons.  The Legal department needs help with contracts, patents and investigations.  The HR department needs help with eLearning and immigration documents and Marketing/Communications would like assistance with brochures and their website. Note, “document” will be defined as what is inside a file.  For example, a contract is a document, that may be a DOC or PDF.  This therefore also includes videos and websites.  Different kinds of documents require different skills in translation, formatting and software.  Furthermore, different documents have different risks related to pricing and quality.  In this article, we break documents down into basic elements from a translation point of view: Read more