The translation process is made up of different stages that include the intervention of a variety of specialists; it does not only entail conveying a message into another language but also requires the arrangement and review of different professionals. In that sense, having an LSP (Language Service Provider) capable of providing comprehensive services is crucial for every business willing to localize its product. Multilingual Desktop publishing, most commonly known as DTP, has become an increasingly important part of the translation workflow within the localization industry, as it provides clients with a perfectly designed and tailored final document.
Contents:
What is Desktop Publishing (DTP)?
Desktop Publishing is the process where translated material is turned into a properly designed and print-ready document that respects the special nuances of the target culture. To carry out that task, DTPers use page layout software that enables them to redesign the file and change its texts, charts, illustrations, and copy’s length accurately.
Although it may sound simple, it is not an easy job. DTP professionals must have linguistic experience and extensive knowledge of file engineering. Moreover, the edition process demands taking into account specific details such as color schemes, font styles, graphics, and images to guarantee they are properly adapted into a format that is compatible with the target culture.
When is multilingual Desktop Publishing (DTP) required?
Whenever you need to translate textual materials such as flyers, e-books, brochures, leaflets, adverts, product manuals, medical files, and websites, among others, DTP service is a perfect tool that will ensure each one of them is restructured and formatted attractively and consistently, no matter the target audience.
The process
First, the client sends the document that requires formatting in an InDesign or exported PDF file. After that, translators take on the responsibility and work on it with the assistance of a CAT tool because that allows them to center their attention on the text and guarantee quality and consistency.
Once the translation is completed, the project manager passes the document on to the DTP team for them to work on its format. Along that process, they make sure numeric values reflect the local currency, the time, and the date, and check images are properly localized to the target culture, while they try to keep style and design faithful to the original document.
Before exporting the final version, linguists make a post-layout review to look for inconsistencies such as typos, incorrect line breaks, omissions, and truncated text. They flag errors and make notes so DTPers can correct everything and leave the document perfectly edited.
Benefits of Multilingual Desktop Publishing (DTP)
One of the most beneficial aspects of DTP services is that it enhances the quality of the translation process in itself. Having DTP specialists focused on design and format, enables linguists to fully dedicate themselves to their translation task and excel at their duty.
Plus, counting on a DTP team contributes to the rapid development of a project because they are specially trained to work with a variety of programs that allow them to carry out their tasks quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of inconsistencies.
At Win & Winnow, our DTP professionals are well-prepared to take on projects of different sizes, languages, and formats, no matter what their platform might be. We support the full spectrum of publishing tools including Adobe Suite, Acrobat, Framemaker, PageMaker, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, AutoCAD, Corel Draw, Corel Ventura, Freehand, Microsoft Suite, Publisher, Visio, QuarkXpress, Quicksilver, Interleaf, and we can deliver market-ready translations and same format files for easy content management.
To learn more about our multilingual Desktop Publishing services, contact us!
