Manufacturing Translation Services

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Translation within the manufacturing industry requires an in-depth understanding of highly technical and specialized terminologies. Certain manufacturing terms have particular nuances that are difficult to translate accurately into other languages.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Take the English manufacturing term “Just-in-Time” as an example. This term refers to a production strategy where inventory is ordered and received only when needed, thereby reducing inventory costs and improving overall efficiency. Finding an exact equivalent in Asian languages may be challenging due to the differences in Western and Eastern perceptions of time.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ In Western cultures, time is seen as linear, finite, and punctuality-driven, while Eastern cultures often view time as cyclical, interconnected, and prioritize harmony over strict adherence to schedules. Simply translating the denotation of “Just-in-Time” may not bode well as most Asians don’t perceive time in the same way as Westerners do.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ As a result, instead of focusing on the aspect of time and punctuality, the Chinese version of this term, “按需生产”, expresses the notion of producing according to demand. It highlights the idea of tailoring production to meet specific requirements and avoiding excess inventory, which is a key principle of “Just-in-Time.”
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Accurate translation of manufacturing terminologies requires not only linguistic proficiency and industry expertise but also cultural competence.

‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Similar to the issue with terminologies, the contents, structures, and styles of manufacturing documents may vary significantly across countries and cultures.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Several studies have highlighted the differences between Chinese and Western user manuals in terms of content. Chinese manuals tend to include more non-task-related information, such as advertisements and welcoming messages.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Research findings regarding the structure of Chinese and Western documents reveal that while a similar number of structural elements (like headings and lists) are used in user instructions from both cultures, Chinese manuals exhibit a less explicit and systematic use of these elements. It’s concluded that Chinese manuals generally have a “fuzzier” structure compared to Western manuals.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Chinese manuals tend to have a less direct style compared to Western manuals. This is evident in shorter task descriptions, less explicit identification of actions, indirect suggestions instead of direct recommendations, and less specified tools for tasks. Politeness is another aspect where differences arise, as Chinese documents often adopt a formal style to express politeness and respect, while Western documents are suggested to have a relatively informal style, with a conversational tone deemed more appropriate.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ When localizing Western manuals into Chinese, it is crucial to adapt the style to match Chinese preferences. Understand that Chinese readers prefer a more implicit and indirect style of communication. Adjust the tone and style to match the preferences of Chinese readers, making the instructions more implicit and less direct, while maintaining clarity and accuracy.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ In Chinese culture, indirect suggestions are often preferred over direct recommendations. Consider using a more suggestive and persuasive language style while conveying instructions. Additionally, adapt the tone to reflect a formal style, using appropriate honorifics and respectful language when necessary. However, strike a balance to ensure that the language remains accessible and user-friendly, avoiding excessive formality that may hinder comprehension.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Last but not least, it’s best to provide localized examples and references that are relevant and relatable to the Chinese audience. Incorporate Chinese cultural references and ensure that measurements, currency, and other specific details align with Chinese conventions.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Protecting sensitive information is crucial to prevent unauthorized disclosure, industrial espionage, or compromising a company’s competitive advantage.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Utilizing a secure translation platform mitigates the risks associated with unauthorized access, data breaches, or leakages. Encryption protocols and access controls are crucial tools in safeguarding manufacturing content during translation. Translators handling manufacturing content must adhere to strict privacy protocols during information exchanges. Secure file transfer mechanisms, secure emails, or virtual private networks (VPNs) establish trusted channels for transmitting project-related information.
Translator-client relationships should be governed by comprehensive Non Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to explicitly establish the obligations and responsibilities for maintaining confidentiality. NDAs serve as legal safeguards to ensure the protection of sensitive manufacturing information.
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Working with a professional translation company is crucial for confidentiality and information privacy. Through Non Disclosure Agreements, robust data protection measures, qualified and vetted translators, confidentiality policies, and ongoing training, a trusted translation partner ensures that sensitive information remains confidential, protected from unauthorized access, and handled with the highest level of professionalism and compliance.