Like much of the narrative around artificial intelligence and the impending robot apocalypse that we’ve seen in so many movies, CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools stand as misunderstood and wrongly derided weapons in the arsenal of any translator.
The truth of the matter is in the name – ‘assisted’. What many neglect to comprehend is that CAT tools are designed to assist human translators, not replace them, and they have revolutionized the way we approach the craft, improving workflows, elevating quality and ultimately achieving success.
But what exactly are CAT tools and how do they work? It’s rather pleasantly uncomplicated and a testament to the union of man and machine.
Translation Memory systems store previously translated segments, allowing translators to reuse existing translations, which not only avoids repetition but also maintains an irrefutable consistency. Terminology management systems maintain a centralized bank of words, ensuring consistent usage across projects. While machine translation can provide first drafts, human translators are still very much essential for ensuring accuracy, cultural nuance and overall quality. Even then, quality assurance checks identify errors, inconsistencies and formatting issues.
Ultimately CAT tools create efficiency across the board by accelerating the translation process, reducing turnaround times and automating a variety of tasks that free up translators to focus on complex language nuances. Efficiency, however, is nothing without a quality outcome, and CAT tools play a pivotal role in elevating translation quality.
However, CAT tools are just the beginning of the conversation around tech-assistance, with the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning offering the potential to further revolutionize the industry. AI-powered translation engines can, of course, generate initial drafts, but the real touch of innovation comes in machine learning algorithms that can learn from human translations to improve accuracy and fluency. This synergistic approach between human expertise and technological advancement has already opened the doors for more innovation, but its capacity to redefine the landscape of translation and localization is near boundless.
While one could argue that we still have a long road ahead in artificial intelligence winning the hearts and minds of the masses, Transpioneers maintains a position at the forefront of tech innovations and we’re constantly seeking new solutions and new innovations that empower our team of skilled linguists to go above and beyond. By methodically harnessing CAT tools as support, our inhouse teams and global networks are enabled to navigate the complexities of global communication and help businesses thrive.
Find out how Transpioneers can help you take the next step in your global ambitions by visiting out official website, www.transpioneers.com.