Nowadays, a translation of a text will rarely be done based on a paper copy of a document. In most cases, the original or source document is sent to the translator by email as an electronic file. A text for translation can be sent to me as either an email attachment, or by ‘snail-mail’. I adapt the layout of my translation to the original document layout as far as possible. The translated document is then returned in whatever manner and format preferred by the client.
Deadlines
The time a written translation takes depends on the degree of complexity and the length of the original text. On average, a translator translates 2000 words (roughly 4 A4 pages of text) per day. Quite often, clients want a translation ready that same day or the following day, forgetting that quality suffers when a job is rushed through without allowing adequate time for proofreading. My English translations are always proofread by a native English speaker. I strive to give my clients translations, which are flawless with regard to both content and language, and to deliver the finished translations within the time frame agreed. If a client doesn’t have particular requirements regarding delivery time, then I calculate a realistic deadline given the work estimated, and agree this with the client. It can be that sometimes a translation is actually ready before the agreed deadline, as I place great emphasis on delivering a translation as quickly as possible.
Non-Disclosure
Translators are bound by a code of professional confidentiality. Should you require a specific, assignment-related non-disclosure agreement, I am happy to comply with this.