In the localization industry, various acronyms are commonly used to refer to specific terms, processes, or technologies.

Here are some of the most common acronyms used in the localization industry:

 

CAT: Computer Aided Translation

– The use of software to assist a human translator

CMS: Content Management System

— A tool used to manage the creation of digital content such as a website or blog

DTP: Desktop Publishing

– The creation of document layouts using computer software

LQA: Linguistic Quality Assurance

– The process by which localized content is checked to ensure it is correctly translated for the
target audience

LSP: Language Service Provider

– An agency, company, or individual providing translation or interpretation services

MT: Machine Translation

– A translation completed entirely by a computer

QA: Quality Assurance

– The process by which a translation’s quality is checked, in a general sense

TEP: Translation, Editing, and Proofreading

– A specific QA process that has 3 separate individuals to translate, then edit, then proofread, a
translation

TM: Translation Memory

– A database containing paired “segments” – generally sentences, that have been previously translated by humans, used in conjunction with CAT tools to improve the speed and quality of translations. A translation memory is generally client specific

TMS: Translation Management System

– A system to manage the various aspects of the translation process including translation, with CAT integration, editing, proofreading, and publication to a CMS

 

These acronyms are commonly used in discussions, project management, and documentation within the localization industry. Familiarizing yourself with these terms can help better understand and navigate the industry.

If you are lost in translation and need help to bridge the language divide around the world, please contact us at info@a-zworld.ca or visit us at www.a-zworld.ca