What is BS EN ISO 26822:2012

BS EN ISO 26822:2012, also known as ISO 26822:2012 (E) in its English version, is an international standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the design, implementation, and management of quality documentation for machine translation (MT) post-editing. This standard is applicable to all organizations involved in MT post-editing, including service providers, freelance translators, and clients. It aims to ensure consistency, accuracy, and efficiency in the MT post-editing process.

The Importance of BS EN ISO 26822:2012

In today's globalized world, machine translation has become vital to facilitate communication across languages. However, the output generated by machine translation systems is often not perfect and requires human intervention to improve its quality. This is where MT post-editing comes into play. BS EN ISO 26822:2012 sets forth specific requirements for the post-editing process, emphasizing the need for professional linguists with expert knowledge in both the source and target languages.

One of the key benefits of adhering to this standard is the increased productivity it offers. By implementing a standardized workflow and using appropriate terminology resources, companies can significantly reduce the time spent on post-editing tasks and improve their overall efficiency. Moreover, complying with BS EN ISO 26822:2012 helps maintain consistency in the translated content across various projects, which is crucial for brand reputation and customer satisfaction.

Guidelines and Requirements of BS EN ISO 26822:2012

The standard outlines several important guidelines and requirements that organizations should follow to ensure high-quality MT post-editing. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in the post-editing process. This includes the service provider, the post-editor, and the client.

Secondly, BS EN ISO 26822:2012 highlights the need for comprehensive documentation and resources. This includes establishing a glossary of preferred terminology, style guides, and translation memories specific to the client's domain or industry. These resources help ensure consistency and accuracy in the translated content and facilitate collaboration between post-editors.

Another crucial aspect covered by this standard is the assessment and measurement of post-editing quality. It emphasizes the use of clear metrics and evaluation methods to monitor and improve the quality of the MT post-edited texts. By providing feedback and continuously refining the process, organizations can enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of their post-editing services.

Conclusion

BS EN ISO 26822:2012 plays a critical role in standardizing the practice of MT post-editing. By following its guidelines and requirements, organizations can optimize their workflow, achieve higher productivity, maintain consistent quality, and ultimately provide better translation services to their clients. Implementing this standard ensures that both service providers and clients are on the same page regarding expectations, leading to more successful collaborations and improved cross-lingual communication in various domains.