What is the difference between an interpreter and a translator?
The main difference between interpreters and translators is the way in which they communicate: interpreting is basically an oral process, while translation is a written process.
When can I reach an interpreter?
We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Can you certify and notarize translations?
Yes, we do provide certified translations. When a document is being used for immigration, admission to institutions of higher education, or for some legal or "official" purpose, a certified translation might be required. We certify our translations by providing a printed statement which states that the translation is complete and accurate, to the best of our knowledge. This certification contains the signature of the translator and a Notary Public when required. This procedure ensures that the document in question will be accepted as a valid translation for legal purposes in U.S.
What guarantee of confidentiality do I have?
Each freelance interpreter & translator signs a confidentiality agreement and is bound by a strict code of ethics ensuring that all information pertaining to the work we do for you remains strictly confidential. Interpreters routinely destroy all notes.
What are your Rates?
The price of a translation service is usually calculated based on the number of words, interpreting is based on the number of hours worked.
Please contact us and we’ll study your project and send you a personal estimate. Without obligation.
How do I find out the number of words that are in a document that needs to be translated?
If your document is in Microsoft Word format, you can find out how many words your document contains very easily. Simply go to the "File" menu and select the "Properties" option and check the "Statistics" tab. Word automatically counts the words or simply click on tools and then select word count.
What is the turn around time of a project?
Each project is different. The completion of a project will depend on the volume, language, and content type (technical level) of the material to be translated. This can range from days to weeks.
What happens if a translation is needed fast?
When necessary, our translators are available to work overtime for a quick turnaround of your translation project. If needed, we can assign several members of our team to your project in order to successfully meet your deadline.
Can I purchase software to translate?
Yes, but the results will be much different from the ones made from a professional. Usually the software programs do not cost much, however, the outcome will also be of questionable quality. It requires hours for a professional to edit and rewrite a document. Remember that a document cannot be translated verbatim. Source, target language, and cultural differences cannot be translated by software. Even with the very powerful translation programs, many of the specialized (and some of the unspecialized terms) are not translated, the word order is often wrong, and the language is at best stilted and sometimes comic.
Why is Effective Communication Important?
- The provider/client relationship is built through communication.
- When qualified interpreters are not provided, there may be serious negative consequences.
- Serious illnesses may be misdiagnosed, minimized or ignored.
- Informed consent is not possible
- Unnecessary medical tests and procedures may be ordered.
- Necessary medical tests and procedures may not be ordered.
- Medications may be taken incorrectly.
- Appointments may be missed.
- People under arrest have no way of understanding their rights or the judicial system.
- Basic safety procedures and instruction in the workplace are incomprehensible.
- Injured or ill workers cannot explain their symptoms or the cause of the injury or illness, cannot complete necessary paperwork or submit documentation, and cannot defend themselves in the workers compensation process.
- Untrained staff, friends, family members used as “ad hoc” interpreters usually have no training in ethics, confidentiality, the skill of professional interpretation, or knowledge of concepts and terminology, commonly mis-communicate critical information, and may view their role as an unwelcome unpaid burden.
- Confidentiality may not be observed.
- LEP patients cannot freely express sensitive concerns, complaints, and questions when family members or friends are asked to interpret.
