Why translation providers should be ISO certified

Jan 24, 2022

The translation industry is unregulated in many countries. Translators can claim they are professionals and provide their services. For a translation buyer, this becomes a potential risk. How do you know if you’re working with a true professional?

International Quality Standards in Translation Services

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international standard-setting body composed of representatives from various national standards organizations. They define requirements and outline best practices to enable businesses in any industry to consistently offer fit-for-purpose products or services. The two ISO standards that are the most relevant to translation providers would be:

  • ISO 17100:2015 - Requirements for translation services
  • the general ISO 9001 standard for Quality management systems

Why translation providers should conform to ISO17100:2015

ISO 17100:2015 provides requirements for the core processes, resources, and other aspects necessary for the delivery of a quality translation service that meets applicable specifications.

A translation service provider (TSP) can demonstrate the conformity of specified translation services to ISO 17100:2015 and the capability of its processes and resources to deliver a translation service that will meet the applicable quality specifications and expectations.

Many companies and organizations partner with translation service providers to avoid language and culture pitfalls that can be costly and sometimes irreparable. ISO 17100:2015 certifies that there is a qualified multidisciplinary team behind each project, working within an established workflow and in a safe environment.

Why translation providers should conform to ISO9100:2016

ISO 9001:2016 Quality Management System (QMS) provides a quality management framework that companies can use to ensure the quality of their products and services is consistent. This reduces the chance of product faults and recalls or service shortcomings.
It ensures that customers can buy with confidence.

ISO 9001:2016 certification demonstrates an organization’s ability to consistently meet and exceed customer expectations. Many clients require their suppliers to be ISO 9001 certified to minimize their risk of purchasing a poor product or service.

A business that achieves ISO 9001:2016 certification can attain significant improvements in organizational efficiency and product quality by minimizing waste and errors and increasing productivity.

Rely on a certified translation provider

Translation services of idioma® adhere to ISO 9001:2016 and ISO 17100:2015 standards which guarantee our clients get the quality and satisfaction they deserve.

We believe translation requires a systematic approach that includes detailed steps from translation, editing, verification, and strict quality control, to timely delivery. We ensure that the content and context of our translation align with the client’s expectations every time.

Do you have any questions on ISO or would like to request a translation quote?
Please contact us at info@idioma.com.