Introduction to Post-Editing and AI Translation

The translation industry is in the middle of a major transformation. With the rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning, post-editing—especially Machine Translation Post-Editing (MTPE)—has become a core part of the localization workflow.

Machine translation (MT), powered by engines like Google Translate, DeepL, and Microsoft Translator, has made raw translations faster and more accessible. But without human intervention, these translations can miss context, tone, or even basic grammar. That’s where post-editing comes in.

Post-editing involves reviewing and correcting machine-generated content to ensure it’s fluent, accurate, and suitable for its intended audience. This hybrid model—AI plus human review—requires strict quality control to ensure consistency, and that’s where ISO 18587:2017 steps in.

What is ISO 18587:2017?

ISO 18587:2017 is the international standard that specifies the requirements for the process of full, human post-editing of machine translation output. Unlike general translation standards, this one focuses specifically on workflows involving AI.

Key Objectives:

  • Define the scope and quality expectations of post-editing.
  • Ensure that the final product meets professional translation standards.
  • Create a standardized environment for Language Service Providers (LSPs) and freelancers alike.

This certification is particularly relevant for any company that uses MTPE in professional settings, whether you’re a translation agency, an in-house localization team, or a freelance post-editor.

The Shift from Human to Hybrid Translation Workflows

Traditional translation involved linguistic experts working manually on every word. But with AI-driven tools, we’re seeing a shift towards hybrid systems. These workflows start with raw AI output and are refined by post-editors. This method boosts productivity while reducing turnaround times—but it also increases the risk of quality issues if not managed properly.

Why Quality Standards Matter in AI-Driven Translation

AI doesn’t always understand nuance. Words with double meanings, regional idioms, and cultural references often get lost in translation. That’s why human oversight is crucial, and quality standards like ISO 18587:2017 help define clear guidelines for:

  • Accuracy: The translation must be semantically correct.
  • Consistency: Terminology and tone must be uniform throughout.
  • Contextual integrity: The message must fit the cultural and communicative context.

Post-editors play a pivotal role in maintaining this balance, and ISO 18587:2017 offers a structure to help them do it right.

ISO 18587:2017 vs. Other Quality Standards

While several standards govern translation services, ISO 18587:2017 specifically addresses the nuances of post-editing machine translation output. In contrast, ISO 17100 focuses on general translation services, emphasizing human translation processes. The unique focus of ISO 18587:2017 on MTPE ensures that the challenges and requirements of AI-assisted translations are adequately addressed.

Benefits of ISO 18587:2017 Certification

Achieving ISO 18587:2017 certification offers several advantages:

  • For Language Service Providers (LSPs): Demonstrates a commitment to quality and positions the organization as a leader in AI-assisted translation services.
  • For Clients and Buyers: Provides assurance of receiving translations that meet internationally recognized standards, ensuring consistency and reliability.
  • For Post-Editors: Establishes clear guidelines and competencies, leading to professional development and recognition in the field.

ISO 18587:2017 in Action

Implementing ISO 18587:2017 has proven beneficial for various organizations. For instance, companies have reported enhanced efficiency and quality in their translation processes, leading to increased client satisfaction. The standard’s emphasis on structured post-editing ensures that machine-generated translations are refined to meet high-quality benchmarks.

Key Requirements of ISO 18587:2017

The standard outlines specific requirements, including:

  • Post-Editor Qualifications: Post-editors must possess competencies comparable to professional human translators, ensuring they can effectively refine MT output.
  • Quality Assurance Processes: Establishing systematic procedures to monitor and enhance the quality of post-edited translations.
  • Documentation Needs: Maintaining comprehensive records of post-editing processes to ensure transparency and accountability.

How to Get Certified in ISO 18587:2017

Organizations seeking certification should:

  1. Understand the Standard: Familiarize themselves with the requirements and guidelines of ISO 18587:2017.
  2. Implement Necessary Processes: Align internal workflows and quality assurance mechanisms with the standard’s stipulations.
  3. Select an Accrediting Body: Choose a recognized certification body to conduct the assessment and grant certification.

Tools and Technologies Supporting ISO Compliance

Leveraging advanced tools can facilitate compliance:

  • Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) Tools: Enhance translation efficiency and consistency.
  • AI Monitoring Tools: Assist in evaluating and improving machine translation outputs.
  • Quality Assurance Automation: Streamlines the process of detecting and correcting errors in translations.

Challenges in Adopting ISO 18587:2017

Organizations may encounter challenges such as:

  • Resistance to Change: Employees may be hesitant to adopt new standards and workflows.
  • Training and Awareness: Ensuring that staff are adequately trained to meet the standard’s requirements.
  • Return on Investment (ROI) Concerns: Evaluating the cost-benefit ratio of implementing the standard.

Role of Post-Editors in Ensuring Compliance

Post-editors are pivotal in the compliance process:

  • Responsibilities and Skills: They must possess a deep understanding of both source and target languages, cultural nuances, and the ability to work with AI-generated content.
  • Collaboration with AI Tools: Effectively using technology to enhance translation quality while adhering to the standard’s guidelines.

Future of Post-Editing and ISO Standards

As AI continues to evolve, standards like ISO 18587:2017 will likely undergo revisions to address emerging challenges and technologies. The language services industry must stay abreast of these changes to maintain quality and relevance.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the primary purpose of ISO 18587:2017?

ISO 18587:2017 provides requirements for the full, human post-editing of machine translation output and outlines the competencies of post-editors.

  1. How does ISO 18587:2017 differ from ISO 17100?

While ISO 17100 focuses on general human translation services, ISO 18587:2017 specifically addresses the post-editing of machine-generated translations.

  1. Who should consider obtaining ISO 18587:2017 certification?

Translation service providers, post-editors, and organizations utilizing machine translation should consider certification to ensure quality and consistency in their services.

  1. What are the benefits of ISO 18587:2017 certification?

Certification demonstrates a commitment to quality, enhances client confidence, and provides a competitive edge in the translation industry.

  1. Are there specific tools recommended for compliance with ISO 18587:2017?

While the standard doesn’t mandate specific tools, utilizing CAT tools, AI monitoring systems, and quality assurance automation can aid in compliance.

  1. How often is ISO 18587:2017 reviewed or updated?

ISO standards are typically reviewed every five years to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Conclusion

In the age of AI-driven translations, ISO 18587:2017 serves as a crucial benchmark for quality and consistency. By adhering to this standard, organizations can effectively navigate the complexities of machine translation post-editing, ensuring that their outputs meet the highest professional standards.

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