The technology sector is always evolving. This provides an interesting challenge for both technology and translation – in keeping up with new innovations. In recent years, new tech such as AI and augmented reality have hit the mainstream are now used in a variety of sectors. The rate at which new technical advances are made is impressive. According to Tech Nation, the Global Tech report 2020 suggests that investments in the global tech market in 2019 are estimated to have soared to £10.1bn. UK tech showed particular dynamism, growing at a rate that exceeded China, France, and the US to name a few. In this blog, we explore the world of technology translation services and how language is key in introducing new technologies in the workplace and beyond…
Technology translation services – why are translations crucial?
New technology requires new terminology. This can be the name of a new product or innovation, or perhaps a new system or process. When businesses adopt new technologies, gaining buy in from all areas of the company can be a challenge. Businesses employ a variety of people, each with their own backgrounds, lifestyles, job roles and personal preferences. This means that new tech can sometimes be daunting, forcing teams to learn new ways of thinking and working.
Chances are, if you are investing in expensive tech, you are fully aware of the benefits across the business. Communicating this effectively is vital. Technology translation services can be of great assistance if you are introducing tech on a mass scale and need to ensure enthusiastic takeup across a global business. It’s also important to consider that people need to understand the tech to be invested in its success. Ensuring instructions are clearly communicated through the use of simple, jargon-free language is crucial.
Information technology translation in training
Acknowledging skills gaps and identifying training needs when introducing new tech is important for achieving success. Clear, concise information technology translation is imperative in training where instruction needs to be clear to all, regardless of their native language. One of the challenges in tech language is the high level of jargon used by professionals. This needs be accurately adjusted to language presented in layman’s terms. When this information then needs to be translated into multiple languages, it’s imperative that meaning is not lost.
Different learning styles will require different approaches. People can feel valued when new tech training is customised to their needs. People who learn visually may work best with this approach. When it comes to language, it’s important to consider graphic elements too like images. What might make sense in one culture will seem out of place in another. This is another aspect of information technology translation that is often not given sufficient consideration.
Global employers
Global employers are finely tuned to both the benefits and challenges of employing a global workforce. With lockdown making remote working the norm (although it had long been popular in the forward-thinking tech sector), catering for employees across the globe is important. New tech needs to be accessible to users, so integrating a plan that works for those learning remotely is a must. The practicalities of implementing new tech for a remote worker should be considered too.
Internal teams may also face the challenge of needing to understand industry-specific language such as technical English. If user guides, for example, need to be provided in more accessible, simplified technical English, the content will need to be fully finalised prior to translation. Without additional support from colleagues or service providers nearby, remote workers have an even greater need for clarity.
Companies with personnel spread across the globe also need to consider software localisation. In addition, if technology is to be adopted successfully by all geographical locations, varying regulations and local lifestyles should also be taken into consideration. Employers need to consider any challenges they may face in various locations, such as different time zones or different ways of working.
Do you want to cut through the jargon with user-friendly, multilingual communications for your technology niche? Speak to our experts today!