Costly delays and budget overruns in translation projects can occur because key information is not communicated at the onset.  Because translation comes at the end of the project cycle, time is often an issue.  Translations quotes are requested on a rush basis, and confusion over final edits and internal approvals may ensue.

We've compiled 13 helpful tips on how you can avoid these pitfalls while meeting your deadlines and staying on budget.  Today's post will cover the first three tips and we'll post one new one a day after that.  If you don't want to wait, send an email to info@pandltranslations.com and we'll send you the complete list.

1. Be direct. Say what you mean in the original document so that the translation will also clearly communicate your message.

2. Eliminate sports analogies. Expressions like "he went the whole nine yards" are meaningless to foreign readers who do not follow American football.  A similar expresion may not exist in the target language.

3. Longer is not necessarily better. Keep in mind that the number of words or characters may increase by more than 20% when they are translated into many other languages.  This "expansion" can affect the layout of PowerPoint presentations, marketing materials, and your website.

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Multilingual websites are a cost-effective way for hospitals to improve compliance and ensure patient safety for people with limited English proficiency.  Health education materials, treatment guides, privacy policies, and payment information are standard offerings. A multilingual website also positions the hospital as a “friendly” healthcare provider because it creates a sense of welcome and trust with patients.

Advantages of offering multilingual health information and documents on the website include:

• Improved communications between doctor/nurse and patient
• Reduced risk of malpractice
• Easy access for people with limited English skills
• Improved patient care
• Information can be easily updated

Hospitals that do not provide adequate language services run the risk of compromising their patients’ healthcare.

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