When you need to have a document translated, one of the first questions you probably have is "How long will this take?" The answer to that question isn't always simple, as there are a number of factors that can affect the timeline for your document translation. In this blog post, we'll break down some of the most important factors to keep in mind when trying to determine how long it will take to get your document translated.

1. Length of the Document

Perhaps the most obvious factor influencing the timeline for your document translation is the length of the document itself. A shorter document will obviously take less time to translate than a longer one. That being said, it's not always a simple matter of translating a certain number of words per day. Some documents may be shorter but more complex, requiring more research or review by subject matter experts. Conversely, some longer documents may be relatively simple and straightforward, making them easier and faster to translate.

2. Number of Translators

Another important factor to consider is how many translators will be working on your project. More translators working at the same time can obviously get the work done more quickly than a single translator working alone. That being said, it's important to make sure that each translator is familiar with the project requirements and has the required expertise. Adding too many cooks in the kitchen can sometimes lead to confusion and delays, so it's important to strike a balance here.

3. Subject Matter Expertise

As we mentioned above, some documents may require input from subject matter experts (SMEs) in order to ensure accuracy. This could lengthen the overall timeline for your project as you'll need to allow time for review by an SME after the initial translation is complete. The level of expertise required will also influence how long it takes to find an appropriate SME who is available and willing to work on your project.

4. Formatting Requirements

The required formatting for your final translated document can also influence the timeline for your project. If you need your document formatted in a specific way for example if it needs to match the layout of an existing English version that will obviously add some extra time onto the project timeline as special care will need to be taken during both the translation and formatting stages.

5. Review & Approval Process

Depending on your organization's internal procedures, there may be one or more rounds of review and approval required before your translated document can be considered final. This obviously adds time onto the end of your project timeline as well as potentially lengthening individual stages along the way (e.g., if revisions are requested during the review process).

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a number of different factors that can influence how long it takes to translate a document from one language to another. The best way to get an accurate estimate for your specific project is to consult with a professional translation services provider who can assess all of these factors and give you a realistic timeline based on their experience and expertise.