Machinery Case Study

 Summary

In a project involving the overseas export of factory automation systems, TOIN successfully translated documents about machines with very complicated structures.

 Challenges

• Since the machine structures were so complicated, it would be difficult to translate with the source document as the only source of information
• Appropriate translations are not possible if the translators do not have a clear understanding of how to operate the machines
• The client's terminology was different in each specialty, so it was difficult to create a consistent glossary

 Solutions

• TOIN translators visited the client to research the subject
• Our translators learned about the machines by actually operating them

 Conclusion

• TOIN delivered translations built on a full understanding of complicated machinery
• We delivered translations that described appropriate operation methods

 Case Study

We were approached by our client, a leading Japanese supplier of factory automation systems, about translating operation manuals, service manuals and the associated documents needed for exporting their products overseas.

The plant consisted of one production line, and since the machine structures were so complex, it was difficult to translate the information correctly just by using the Japanese manuals. There was no consistent terminology or glossary, and even if one were created by TOIN, it would have to be validated by all the different department managers. However, the most important thing in machinery translations is not the terminology itself, but whether the translation properly describes how to operate the machine.

The client had previously used a different translation agency, but it was always necessary to review the entire document and change inappropriate sentences.

The client was situated on the island of Kyushu, but when we heard about their dilemma, we proposed sending the translators to their workplace to research the machines. The translators looked over the source document to identify in advance any uncertain areas or issues, and the translation quality manager and a number of translators visited the client's workplace for a week. The managers of each department showed the team the machines and gave explanations, and in some cases they were even allowed to operate the machines themselves.

This method allowed the translators to gain a clear image of how to operate the machines and enabled them to produce accurate and descriptive translations. As the project progressed, the translation quality manager visited the client again on several occasions to resolve new issues that had arisen.

This workflow dramatically reduced the burdens on the client and produced a final document that did not have to be rechecked.