Overview
ISO 17100:2015 - Translation services - Requirements for translation services - specifies requirements for the core processes, resources, and other aspects necessary to deliver a quality translation service that meets applicable specifications. The standard sets out how a translation service provider (TSP) can demonstrate conformity of specified translation services and the capability of its processes and resources to meet client, organizational, and regulatory specifications. Notably, the use of raw machine translation output plus post‑editing is outside the scope of ISO 17100:2015, and the standard does not apply to interpreting services.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Scope & Definitions: Clear terms for translation workflow, roles, and products (translation, revision, review, proofreading, etc.).
- Resources: Minimum expectations for human resources (translator, reviser, reviewer, project manager competences and qualifications) and technical/technological resources (computer‑aided translation tools and other translation technology).
- Pre‑production: Enquiry, feasibility, quotation, client‑TSP agreement, handling project‑related client information, and project preparation (administrative, technical, linguistic specifications).
- Production Process: Requirements for managing translation projects and the translation workflow steps: translation, check, revision (bilingual examination), review (monolingual examination), proofreading, and final verification and release.
- Post‑production: Feedback handling and closing administration.
- Conformity & Demonstration: How a TSP can demonstrate that its processes and resources will meet client and applicable specifications.
- Annexes (informative): Practical aids such as workflow diagrams, agreements and project specifications, project reporting, pre‑production tasks, translation technology guidance, and a list of value‑added services.
Practical Applications
- Establishing or improving a TSP’s quality management for translation projects, ensuring consistent deliverables across languages and domains.
- Defining minimum qualification requirements for translators, revisers, and project managers to support recruitment and training.
- Standardizing processes across pre‑production, production, and post‑production to improve turnaround, traceability, and client satisfaction.
- Guiding the use and management of translation technology (CAT tools) while clarifying that raw MT + post‑editing is excluded.
Who Should Use It
- Translation service providers (TSPs) of any size seeking to formalize quality processes.
- Project managers, in‑house localization teams, language service buyers, and QA managers who need to specify or evaluate translation service requirements.
- Organizations requiring documented evidence that translation services conform to internationally recognized best practices.
Related Standards
- Developed under ISO/TC 37 (Terminology and language resources). Organizations implementing ISO 17100:2015 may also consult other ISO standards and industry best‑practice documents relevant to localization and quality management.
