On-time delivery and full compliance with work specifications are two other essentials for professional translators, for many clients sometimes as important as translation quality itself. Whether direct clients or translation agencies, customers are rarely pleased when notified of last-minute delays.
For translators, hardware and software are also important.
“HW & SW” — Contents
How we protect our translation work
Electronic devices such as computers have an uncanny ability to fail at the worst possible time, creating situations that, if not immediately addressed, might seriously jeopardize the reputations of both translators and translation companies alike.
This creates a need for readily available emergency hardware and software tools which can help reduce the resulting downtime to the bare minimum. Here is what we do to minimize this not-so-unlikely risk:
Our safety is our clients' peace of mind
In addition to minimizing any forced interruptions in our workflow, the ready availability of a backup computer and wireless communication device allows us to stay in constant contact with our clients.
This is not only in our best interest but also that of our clients, whose time is just as precious as ours and as such should not be compromised by a lack of preparedness on our part. We can therefore state with confidence that our safety and the safety of our clients are one and the same.
Software is an indispensable component of any professional translation process, in particular when doing technical/scientific/specialized translations. The other part of the equation is hardware. Our primary hardware and software tools are listed in the right column. Note that the software we use is always updated to the latest available version or is at least compatible with the needs of our clients.
Keeping work tools up to date is without a doubt one of the most meaningful investments that translators can make toward their careers. A readiness to invest in the most appropriate tools—despite their relative high cost for freelance translators—is also a solid indicator of professionalism and respect towards customers.