In the age of readily available AI-powered machine translation engines, one might assume that the demand for professional translation services is dwindling. However, studies indicate that the language service sector is not only holding steady but is, in fact, expanding, introducing a plethora of translation options to the market. For those in need of professional translations, the decision often comes down to choosing between a freelance translator or a translation agency. Let’s explore the distinctions between the two and determine which option is better suited for specific translation needs.
Translation Agency
Leading translation agencies employ a team of several to dozens of highly qualified translators, each possessing expertise in specific fields. These agencies often collaborate with external specialists, including not just translators and proofreaders but also professionals in localization, copywriting, and computer graphics. Translation companies have the capacity to handle the translation into multiple languages simultaneously. Additionally, they offer a broad spectrum of interpreting and translation services, including:
- specialist translations
- technical translations
- certified translations
- localization
- machine translation postediting
Freelance Translator
On the other hand, a freelance translator operates independently, typically managing their own business or entering into freelance contracts with clients. Freelancers generally specialize in specific fields or types of translation. Their services are particularly valuable when a quick and straightforward translation of text or documents into a single language is required.
Differences between a Translation Company and a Freelancer
Quality of Translation Service
A translation agency provides comprehensive services, with a team of specialists overseeing each project. One person translates the text, another proofreads it, and yet another performs additional verification. The whole process is supervised by a Project Manager, who stays in touch with the client keep him up to date and streamline the completion of the order. This ensures a high-quality final translation, which is especially important for texts requiring specific terminology, such as technical documentation, instructions, warranties, or contracts.
In contrast, freelancers handle the entire translation process themselves. There will probably not be a significant difference in terms of quality of translation, provided you will find the right specialist. This will demand more involvement and thorough research on your part. You may also need to arrange additional Quality Assurance, either by another translator/proofreader or by an in-house employee.
In addition, translation agencies often work with native speakers and foreign copywriters, so they can not only professionally translate the text, but also adapt it from the cultural angle of the target country. This is a good choice when you need to translate one (e.g. marketing) text into several languages – a translation agency will comprehensively handle the project and ensure consistent terminology.
Price
Often, freelancers’ service might be cheaper, but the price of translation varies – both among freelancers and translation agencies. That is to say, the company’s services will not always be more expensive. Translation agencies face higher fixed costs of operation, but at the same time, thanks to the use of translation support software, among other things, they can reduce the price of their services. Outsourcing a translation to a company also means that professional project management is included in the price. As a result, the client does not have to get involved in the translation process and can devote more attention to other duties.
Timeliness
Freelancers working solo may face delays due to unforeseen circumstances. Translation agencies, with multiple translators for a given language, mitigate the risk of late deliveries and offer faster translation of large quantities of documents.
Additional Services
Freelancers often specialize in one language pair and a few fields, delivering translations efficiently. In contrast, translation agencies, with greater resources, can extend their services to graphic design, presentations, and even direct translation of technical drawings in AutoCAD. Agencies commonly offer additional services like localization, graphic preparation for printing, document verification, and text editing.
Conclusion – how to decide between a translation agency and freelance translator?
The decision between a freelance translator and a translation agency depends on your needs and capabilities.
Choose a freelance translator, when:
- You want to have more direct contact with the person who will be doing the translations for you.
- You want to choose the translator and manage the translation process by yourself.
- Your project is small and fairly straightforward.
Choose a translation agency when:
- You don’t have the time to manage the translation process yourself.
- You have a large complex translation project to complete.
- You need additional services, like DTP or translation of technical drawings.
Bireta Professional Translations stands out with over 20 years of experience, holding a solid position in the market, evident through numerous certificates and customer recommendations. Renowned for professionalism and comprehensive services, the agency boasts a team of experts across various fields, offering technical and specialized translations in a multitude of European and Asian languages.