Computer-assisted Translation

What is computer-assisted translation (CAT)?

CAT tools can be used to store and analyse previously translated texts so that repeated sections can be retrieved rather than translated again from scratch. Using these tools enables us to deliver translations more quickly, reduce costs for the client and continually improve translation quality.

Unlike machine translation, which attempts to generate translations automatically and can produce unreliable results when used to replace the human translator, computer-assisted translation (CAT) supports the translator by storing previously translated texts and retrieving recurring or similar segments without the need to translate them from scratch each time. Using dedicated software known as CAT tools, repetitive copy-and-paste operations that were once carried out manually can now be automated.

CAT tools also enable us to review and correct previous translations before reusing them in a new text, making it possible to improve quality rather than simply reproduce earlier solutions. Used carefully, CAT tools also improve terminological consistency across documents by giving translators continuous access to previous reference texts and highly useful glossaries.

Our Language Research Institute (CRL) has conducted extensive research into the use of CAT tools, and we believe that they deliver the best results only under appropriate working conditions. Unlike those who advocate the use of CAT tools for all translations, at SMG UK we believe that they can be used efficiently without compromising quality when the following conditions are met:

• The texts are highly repetitive;
• The client requests the review and revision of the retrieved segments to ensure that the translator has updated them where necessary (for example, in technical manuals where product codes, dimensions, etc. must be updated);
• The client provides previous reference translations that have already been reviewed and validated.

If these three general conditions are not met, SMG UK reserves the right to decline the provision of assisted translation services.