Creating Documents in Another Language  

Del Papa discusses some of the challenges faced by technical communicators who are non-native speakers of English and who produce English-language documentation.

Del Papa, Lisa A. Intercom (2002). Articles>Writing>Translation>Localization

Translation and the Technical Writer

As more companies sell in the global market and recognize the importance of customer service and satisfaction, they are beginning to realize the importance of translating software and documentation into foreign languages. Once your own company realizes that it needs to translate its documentation, to whom will it turn for project management? You, of course. The technical writer is in an ideal position to control the translation of documentation and the textual element of software.

Tunsley, Roger A. Boston Broadside (1993). Articles>Language>Translation>Technical Writing

Tips for Writing a Document Destined for Translation    

When writing a document that is going to be translated, writers should avoid certain terminology, take into account various aspects of a translation vendor, use a style guide, and more. Rimalower provides tips on how to create successfully translatable documents.

Rimalower, George P. Intercom (2009). Articles>Writing>Localization>Translation

Where Writing and Translation Meet  

Just as developing an English document may take months as it crosses the desks of subject matter experts, sales and marketing managers, and editors, so does producing translations. Documents to be translated can go before a translator, editor, subject matter expert, proofreader, in-country reviewer, and client before a final version is ready for distribution.

Kramasz, Deb. STC International TC SIG (2003). Articles>Language>Translation>Writing

Ten Irresistible Potholes that Writers Find on the Road to Globalization

Optimizing the translation process has two basic components: improving the writers' source texts and improving the translators' process. For the moment, we'll focus on the writer's job. Dear Translator: Please remember that most writers never had any training at all about translation and usually know one lonely language. Many of them can only rely on the limited writing advice that they got in school. They're never aware of how they can make life hellish for translators and for international readers. So, don't blame them; help them out. Pass this list on to them and discuss it until they understand.

Dillinger, Mike. Content Wrangler, The (2009). Articles>Language>Translation>Writing