When translating content between English and Indonesian, accuracy, clarity, and cultural relevance are crucial. A structured translation workflow helps ensure that the final result is not only linguistically correct but also appropriate for the intended audience and purpose.
This article explains two common types of translation workflows used in professional translation projects: human translation and MTPE (Machine Translation Post-Editing). Understanding both methods can help project owners and content teams make better decisions when preparing content for multilingual use.
Human Translation Workflow
Human translation is a fully manual process completed by a professional translator who is fluent in both languages and knowledgeable about the subject matter. This method is commonly used for content that requires a high level of accuracy, nuance, or cultural adaptation.
Examples of suitable content include legal documents, marketing materials, websites, user interfaces, medical reports, and academic or educational texts.
Here is how the human translation workflow typically works:
1. Project Analysis and Preparation
Before the translation begins, the content is analyzed to understand the goals, target audience, and subject matter. This step may also include preparing style guides, glossaries, or reference materials.
2. Translation by a Native Expert
A professional translator translates the content with close attention to meaning, tone, and cultural context. The result is a natural, clear, and accurate version of the original message.
3. Editing and Review
The translated content is reviewed by a second linguist. This step ensures fluency, consistency, and accuracy by identifying and correcting errors in grammar, style, or terminology.
4. Quality Assurance (QA)
A final check is carried out to verify formatting, layout, completeness, and adherence to the original context. For digital content, this may include checking how the translation displays on different platforms.
5. Delivery and Revisions
The final version is delivered in the requested format. If needed, revisions can be made based on internal review or client feedback.
MTPE Workflow (Machine Translation Post-Editing)
MTPE combines machine translation with human editing. It is often used when speed and cost-efficiency are important, and the content is less dependent on tone or creativity. Examples include product descriptions, technical documentation, internal reports, and high-volume text.
The MTPE workflow typically follows these steps:
1. Content Suitability Check
The content is evaluated to decide if it is appropriate for machine translation. Texts that are highly creative, legal, or brand-sensitive may not be good candidates.
2. Machine Translation (MT)
Once approved, the content is processed using a machine translation engine such as Google Translate, DeepL, or a custom system trained in a specific domain.
3. Human Post-Editing
A professional linguist reviews and edits the machine-generated output. There are two common levels of editing:
- Light post-editing, which focuses on correcting grammar and basic clarity
- Full post-editing, which improves fluency, accuracy, and overall quality
4. Quality Assurance
As with human translation, a QA step is included to check formatting, terminology, and completeness.
5. Delivery and Optional Feedback
The edited content is delivered for review or final use. Revisions can be made if necessary.
MTPE is suitable for content that does not require deep cultural adaptation but still needs human oversight to ensure accuracy and clarity.
Choosing Between Human Translation and MTPE
The right workflow depends on the purpose of the content, the timeline, the budget, and the level of quality required. In some projects, both workflows may be used together depending on the content type. For example, product descriptions may go through MTPE, while promotional banners are translated by human experts.
By understanding each workflow, content managers and teams can better plan translation projects and set clear expectations for quality, speed, and cost.
Ready to Make Your Translations Work Better?
A good translation isn’t just about the right words, it’s about having the right process. With a clear workflow, your message becomes smoother, more consistent, and easier to understand.
And the good news? You don’t have to do it alone.
If you’re looking to improve your translation, Vy-Trans here to help. Let’s make your translations faster, smarter, and more effective together.
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