FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the difference between interpretation and translation?

Interpretation is the rendering of verbal messages from one language to another.

Translation is the rendering of written messages from one language to another.

Interpretation

Are your interpreters native speakers of non-English languages?

Yes! Our interpreters are native speakers of languages other than English.

Does TIN require professional training and language testing?

Yes! All our interpreters are tested by a third party to verify their fluency in English and their native language. TIN also requires interpreters to complete Bridging the Gap, a 40-hour nationally acclaimed medical interpreter training program developed by Seattle’s Cross Cultural Health Care Program (CCHCP) and offered under license by The Interpreter Network.

Do you charge for canceling interpretation/translation assignments?

We ask that our clients give us 24 hour notice of all cancellations. If you are unable to provide a 24 hour notice of cancellation, TIN will charge a set minimum fee for interpretation assignments.

Do you provide interpretation on evenings, weekends and holidays?

Our office hours are 8:30am to 5pm, Monday till Friday. Interpretation is usually provided between the hours of 7am & 7pm. Hourly rates are slightly higher for evening, weekend and holiday assignments.

How does TIN provide long term quality assurance for interpretation?

TIN has a quality control process in place which includes feedback from a wide variety of professional resources. Interpreters are evaluated on their promptness, courteousness, professionalism, knowledge of needed vocabulary, and communication skills.

How far in advance do I need to call to schedule an interpreter?

We prefer 48 hours or more if possible but will always try to work with you to accommodate your immediate need.

How many languages does your organization provide?

TIN provides interpretation & translation services in over 100 foreign languages.

What areas of specialization do you provide interpretation for?

Healthcare, Mental Health, Social Services, Technical, Legal and Business.

What Code of Ethics do TIN interpreters follow?

All TIN interpreters are required to follow the National Code of Ethics for Interpreters in Health Care developed by the Standards and Training Committee of the National Council on Interpreting in Health Care (NCIHC).

What is the difference between consecutive and simultaneous interpretation?

Consecutive interpretation involves a relay in which one speaker says a few sentences, the interpreter interprets and the other speaker responds.In simultaneous interpretation the interpreter interprets at the same time that the speaker is speaking, just a few words behind.

Translation

Are your translators native speakers of non-English language(s)?

Yes! Our translators are native speakers of their non-English language and for technical translations they have advanced degrees such as a Masters or a Doctorate in the field they specialize in.

Does TIN require translator certification?

Yes! We require our translators to be certified through the American Translators Association, when certification is offered in their language.

Do you charge for canceling translation assignments?

We request a 48 hour courtesy notice for all cancellations. If you are unable to provide a 24 hour notice of cancellation, you will be billed for any work completed up until the cancellation.

How is translation priced?

Translation is priced on a per-word basis and includes editing of the document(s).The price depends on the language being translated and the technical nature of the document as well as the deadline.

How will the translated documents be returned to me?

We return documents in the same electronic format we receive them in.

I’ve never used a translation service before. What is the process like and what can I expect?

The process is very simple.

  1. You send us the document(s) to be translated.
  2. We give you a firm quote with a delivery deadline within 24 hours.
  3. We deliver the translated document(s) on the due date in the required delivery format.

You can expect the highest quality product & customer service from our staff in regards to your translation & interpretation needs. We adhere to the highest standards in the industry & will always keep you in the know as to the progress of your project.

Our staff is business savvy and culturally sensitive to the needs of individuals and companies and the importance of accurately communicating your message.

What areas of specialization do you provide translation for?

Specialization includes: Healthcare, Social Services, Business, Legal, Industry & Technology, and Telecommunication.

What formats do you support?

We prefer all projects be sent in the following formats: (doc./ xls./ txt./ rtf./ pdf.)

What is a revision and how is it priced?

A Revision is the process of modifying a translated document in light of making its comprehension more fluid through correction of the documents content or simply by reading over the document to ensure superior quality.Revisions are priced on an hourly basis.

What is the difference between editing and proofreading?

Editing is done by a second professional translator whereby the translated text is compared to the original text and any necessary modifications are made to ensure accuracy and completeness.Proofreading is done by a professional translator who revises the final version of a translated text prior to publishing.

General

Do you provide DTP (Desktop Publishing) services?

We are happy to accept projects that require formatting or desktop publishing but prefer to leave publishing to qualified publishers.