Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the translation and localization industry. The question is whether CAT (Computer Assisted Translation) tools still have a place. If AI machine translation engines are getting increasingly accurate every day, what is the point of a CAT tool? What exactly are CAT tools are good for? How can we benefit from AI machine translation engines?

A CAT tool is a software program used by professional translators and LSPs to help optimize workflow. It works by segmentizing text into sentences or words, which then can be translated with more efficiency and accuracy. In many cases TM (Translation Memory) can be used reusing text from previous translations to avoid translation completely from zero.

The CAT tools main benefit is the ability to optimize existing translations. It helps translators save time and effort increasing consistency and accuracy throughout a new translation project. CAT tools detect and identify matches content and semi-matches (often called fuzzy matches) from previous translations enabling translators to utilize as much previous material as possible. Translators can build on what’s already available saving resources. Adding AI machine translation engines to this process can take translation to another level. For example, AI machine translation can automatically translate the majority or the entire document. For some languages this is possible with the level of quality close to a human. However, because AI machine translation is not complete it still requires a human translator to manually check, edit, and correct content. This method is called MTPE (Machine Translation Post Editing). Since the quality is still questionable for AI machine translation CAT tools used by professional translators is still ubiquitous. Although AI machine translation is rapidly developing and one day may catch up and overtake the human translator. Until the day comes though translators will continue to work using CAT tools leveraging previously translated material. CAT tools help translators work more efficiently optimizing their workflow. This increases speed and accuracy while giving them control for quality translation. AI machine translation is a phenomenal tool providing lightning speed, but human translators are her to stay for the time being utilizing CAT tools to help maintain optimal quality.

Desktop Tools vs Cloud CAT Tools, which is Better?

CAT tools can be divided into two main categories: desktop CAT tools and cloud-based CAT tools. Desktop CAT tools provide individual translators the option to work without an internet connection. It supports comprehensive solutions supporting numerous file types with enhanced features. With additional IT resources complex projects handled by customizing Desktop CAT tools. To state it simply Desktop CAT tools, provide more options broadening your work capabilities. Popular desktop translation software includes memoQ, Trados Studio, and Wordfast Anywhere.

On the other hand, Cloud-based CAT tools strongest suite is its accessibility. Installation of any software application is not necessary. If you have an internet connection, you can access with the internet browser of your choice. Cloud-based CAT tools provide a shared environment where multiple translators can work together. For example, multiple translators can communicate and translate on the same project simultaneously. Translators can collaborate as a team on translation projects live. If an internet connection is available any translator from anywhere can work together on a translation project. There are few hardware and operating system constraints. Popular Cloud-based CAT tools include XTM Cloud, Phrase TMS, and Doc3™.

Cloud-based CAT tools usually charge a monthly or annual subscription fee. This is based on number of users or usage. Desktop CAT tools require an upfront purchase which is expensive with optional maintenance fees. Usually down the road there are upgrades which increase cost including fees for support. The pricing for both these tools varies depending on the features included.

Can CAT Tools Be the Hero with AI Machine Translation?

CAT tools are important and will continue to thrive in the translation industry. Although AI machine translation technology is advancing at remarkable rates if human translators can leverage CAT tools using TM and MT to their advantage it is a wonderful tool to maintain control and contribute to quality work. Translators are the heroes in the translation industry where CAT tools and AI machine translation are the gadgets to help navigate in this ever-changing landscape. With CAT tools translators can streamline processes to increase accuracy and consistency giving them the opportunities to work remarkably better than ever before.

What Is the Right CAT Tool For You?

CAT tools are available to any professional translator and can be an important investment. TM, MT, file management, quality control, scheduling, consistency, accuracy, the list goes on where how CAT tools can benefit translators. If you’re interested in purchasing a CAT tool, Doc3™ maybe the right CAT tool for you. Doc3™ is the CAT tool for professional translators. Many freelance translators and small to medium-sized LSPs are using it already. With advanced features and its simple modern design, Doc3™ is not like the CAT tools you have encountered before. Let Doc3™ help awaken the translation hero within you.

Doc3™ is a translation software which is compatible with all standard translation file formats including SDLXLIFF, MQXLIFF, and TRANSIT TPF. Doc3™ offers convenient features including Private Cloud Storage, Real-time Translation QA, and the Doc3™ AI-powered MT Engine. This is all included in an all-in-one package bundle subscription. What are you waiting for? Save big with the most efficient CAT tool in the market. Doc3™ is no CAT tool like ever before.

Try Doc3 ™ today!

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