How We Work

When conducting multi-country market research it’s important that measures are taken to ensure high quality, that documents are both culturally and linguistically appropriate.

It takes more than simply a well-translated data-collection instrument to obtain high-quality data from audiences where English is not the native language. Unfortunately, that’s the primary cause of failure in the majority of translations that are linguistically correct but still pose conceptual problems for certain respondents.

We recognize this need and have implemented a rigid process for the translation of data collection instruments and associated materials to ensure that end files are reliable, complete, accurate and culturally appropriate. In addition to being ISO 20252 compliant, using only native translators and editors, here at Translation4Surveys we have adopted a system that is compliant with the U.S. Census Bureau’s Guideline for Translation of Data Collection Instruments and Supporting Materials. This guideline outlines five steps that comprise the translation process. These steps are:

Good upfront PREPARATION for the conduct of the translation will reduce the time and resources needed to produce a well-translated final questionnaire ready for use in data collection. At this stage the interaction of our linguists with the client’s team is crucial, and the Translation4Surveys project manager works to ensure its efficiency. We complete a Translation Validation Form on behalf of the translators and reviewers, containing critical information on the target population, message contained in the source text, purpose of the document, period of document usage, geographic location and social setting for the use of the document. This is sent to the linguists along with any other background materials provided by the client, and the translation step begins.

After the preparation step, translators and editors start the TRANSLATION of the data-collection instruments for the target audience. The best results are obtained when working in cooperation with our client's contacts for subject matter and questionnaire desing.

Questionnaires that have been translated from a source language to a target should not be used as data-collection instruments without the benefit of PRE-TESTING. Pre-testing a translated questionnaire helps identify concepts or constructs that are specific to a given language or culture, so that the questionnaire designer, along with the translation team, can make adjustments to survey questions. This helps prevent concept bias while ensuring construct equivalence.

REVISION es integral to the translation process and therefore continues until the translation is finalized. The first juncture for revision occurs following the review of the initial translation, and the second review once the pre-test results become available.

DOCUMENTATION is not simply the last step but is done in step 1 along with the writing of specifications for the translation team. It's a necessary aspect of step 2, particularly when translating complex surveys in which many versions are produced. It is also a key part of step 3, because it's important to demonstrate that the questionnaire functions properly. The need for documentation continues in step 4, as changes to the source and translated text require special attention to ensure the tracking of all revisions.

The success of this process requires strategic management and mutual cooperation among the client’s team and our own, in a way we become a crucial part of your company’s personnel structure, working toward the creation, adaptation and adoption of source questionnaires for use in their intended markets.