DTP with translation memories

Once the programme and operating system are established, the next step is to check the content structure for translation and formatting problems.

The following text formatting and layout features constantly prove a source of problems:

Texts in graphics

are not recognised by translation memory systems and therefore not translated either. These graphics have to be extensively reworked later by the layouter. Graphics and diagrams should therefore be kept language-neutral.

Embedded symbols in text

are removed from the text by translation memory systems. They must be reinserted manually later by the layouter. An alternative here would be to use a specific font containing the necessary symbols.

Typewriter formatting

such as indents with spaces or tabs instead of the indent function in the programme or fixed line breaks are strictly to be avoided. In the first place they cause problems at the translation stage since the text is "segmented" by these characters. Secondly, this formatting has to be removed later by the layouter since - depending on the foreign language text - it is in a totally different place in the sentence

Text expansion

Should be taken into account in the original layout after translation. Often the foreign language takes up between 10 and 30 percent more space. When creating tables or inserting a page break, make sufficient allowance for this - particularly if the foreign language layout has to match the original page for page.

Once the document has been prepared by the author and the translation and layout has been commissioned, the following should be observed:

Supply complete data

To avoid delays or difficulties with the layout, you should also supply important parts of the documentation, such as graphics, images and also fonts.

File names, file structure

Give clear instructions in advance on the system of file naming and the file structure to be observed, if this is important to you.

Page break instructions

Indicate how page breaks are to be handled in the event of lack of space, which formatting parameters can be changed and whether you want an exact page for page layout.

Programme requirements

Indicate which version of the layout or graphic programme you wish to be used so that the supplied files can later be opened without problem.

Naturally many other project-related queries will arise in practice and close communication is therefore essential.