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While clients might not recognize the acronyms TO, TE, and TEP, these terms are crucial for the quality of translated content and the efficiency of work within any translation and localization agency. TO, TE, and TEP stand for Translation Only, Translation and Editing, and Translation, Editing, and Proofreading, respectively. These three terms represent the three fundamental levels of any translation project.
Translation Only (TO)
As the name suggests, the Translation Only level involves just one experienced translator throughout the process. This single translator translates, localizes, or transcreates the source content into the target language using CAT tools and then conducts a self-review before providing the final version to the client.
The advantages of this option, most valued by clients, include cost-effectiveness and quick turnaround time. Since TO only involves one linguist and skips the editing and proofreading steps, its rates are considerably lower than those of other levels. It can also be delivered in a short time, making it an ideal option for low-budget projects.
However, as the entire translated outcome is handled by a single person, it might contain some errors. Even the best translator is still a human being and can make mistakes. Therefore, TO works best for internal documents and single-use content, such as reports or internal presentations.
Translation and Editing (TE)
At the Translation and Editing level, your content is handled by two different linguists. The first one translates your text, and the second one reviews the translated outcome, i.e., comparing it to the source file and correcting any errors that might have arisen. This is also called the 4-eye principle, and its aim is to ensure the best possible quality of the translation. This option is preferred by most clients due to its acceptable rates and a good balance between quality and turnaround time.
This option is best suited for average-budget projects and external content, such as marketing materials or pitch presentations.
Translation, Editing, and Proofreading (TEP)
Similar to the Translation and Editing level, TEP starts with a native translator translating the source files and an editor reviewing the translation. In the third step, there is one more revision by a proofreader. Unlike editors who compare the target to the source, proofreaders focus solely on the final layout version to ensure smoothness and visual appeal. It is recommended to use CAT tools for the first two steps and conduct an in-context review for the final step. Thanks to the double review, the final documents require no further changes and are publication-ready.
Therefore, it is the ideal solution for the translation of high-visibility documents and critical marketing materials, such as brochures, websites, and mobile apps.
Due to the additional step in the process, this option often takes more time and is more expensive; however, the outcome justifies the cost.
