Frequently Asked Questions

A: While sharing the common goal of taking information that is available in one language and converting it to another, translations and interpretations are nonetheless two separate processes.

In translation, the original written text is converted in written form to the desired target languages.

Interpretation is oral and entails listening to something spoken in one language and then explaining it verbally in the target languages. In sum, translations are written down while interpretations are spoken.

A: Simultaneous Interpreters provide advanced services for international conferences where many listen in tandem through headphones as an address is being given. These simultaneous interpretations take place in sound-proof booths in real-time.

In consecutive interpreting, the speaker pauses every few sentences to allow the interpreter repeat the just spoken portion in the target language for a whole group.  Or sitting next to an individual, consecutive interpreters may also whisper what the speaker has just said.

A: We require our translators and interpreters to abide by the Translators' Professional Code of Ethics set by professional translator associations around the world. We also have in place binding Non-Disclosure Agreements signed by all translators and staff to ensure full confidentiality of all intellectual property.

A: Depending on the use of the translated material, certifications may be provided as requested.  In Singapore, our certified translations are accepted by the local government bodies and the courts.  In our certification we attest to the accuracy of our work and faithfulness to the source document.

A: In Singapore, notarizations are done by a Notary Public.  If our certified translations require this additional step, our translator takes an oath before the Notary Public that he or she was the one who did the translation accurately to the best of his or her knowledge whereupon the Notary Public would affix his seal.

A: We certify translations only upon proofreading the translated work with the source document.  If the translation is accurate, the charge would only be for proof reading.  But if there is a need for significant amount of editing then translation costs are payable.

A: Machine-translations are notorious for erroneous output and still requires considerable amount of proofreading and editing. Our professional translators are able to skip that step and save you a lot of time by doing it manually from the get-go. We do, however, use memory tools to ensure consistency of content. We recognize that the dynamic range of human knowledge and language can never be fully done justice by machine translations alone. Professional human translators will always pip machines because we hire the best in the fields.

A: It is the process of adapting a product or service to a particular language and culture. To firmly establish a product or service in the environment or culture they are marketed in, localization zones in on adapting product/service details to that specific locale.  Smart localization makes a product or service appealing to the local culture. Talented translators with local expertise take into account region-specific factors such as local currencies, national holidays and symbols, local color sensitivities and even gender roles.

A: Your projects are undertaken by carefully selected translators who have passed rigorous subject-specific language tests. Our commitment to our linguistic team’s continual upgrading keeps them updated on new market styles and requirements, and keeps their approaches fresh.

Furthermore, each translation group focuses only on one or a few specialized fields and a daily stream of work in them ensures a familiarity and deftness with the subject matter. Our regular clients also get client-specific glossaries and style sheets to guarantee consistency and quality.