In the increasingly globalized marketplace, the demand for precise communication across borders has never been higher. For businesses and organizations, choosing a language partner is a critical decision that affects brand reputation and legal compliance. One of the most important benchmarks for evaluating these partners is a specific international standard. But what is ISO 17100, and why does it matter so much in the modern era?
Released in 2015, ISO 17100 is an international standard specifically designed for the translation industry. It outlines the requirements for the core processes, resources, and other aspects necessary for the delivery of a quality translation service. Unlike general quality management standards, this one is tailored strictly to the nuances of linguistic work.
Breaking Down the Core: What is ISO 17100 in Practice?
To truly answer “what is ISO 17100,” one must look at the specific requirements it places on Translation Service Providers (TSPs). The standard is built on several pillars that ensure a translation is not just “good,” but technically accurate and culturally appropriate.
- Strict Resource Qualifications: Under this standard, every individual involved in the translation must meet specific professional criteria. Translators must possess recognized graduate degrees in translation or equivalent experience in the field.
- The Revision Mandate: A hallmark of the standard is the “four-eyes principle.” This means that every translation must be revised by a second, independent person who has the same qualifications as the translator.
- Pre-production and Production Tasks: The standard covers the entire workflow—from the initial inquiry and project planning to the technical preparation and the final verification before delivery.
- Post-production Processes: It includes a framework for handling client feedback and ensuring continuous improvement in service delivery.
The Importance of Data Protection and Technical Quality
Beyond the linguistic aspect, what is ISO 17100‘s role in security? The standard requires that providers have robust systems for data protection. In an era where sensitive corporate data and personal information are routinely translated, this level of security is non-negotiable. Furthermore, it focuses on the management of language assets like translation memories and terminology databases to ensure consistency across long-term projects.
Why This Standard is Essential Today
In a world where AI and machine translation are becoming ubiquitous, the human-centric quality control of ISO 17100 is more valuable than ever. It ensures that while technology may be used to assist the process, the final accountability and cultural nuance remain in the hands of qualified professionals.
By adhering to these international guidelines, service providers offer clients peace of mind, knowing that their documents are being handled by experts through a verified, systematic process. Understanding what is ISO 17100 is the first step for any business in securing reliable and professional translation outcomes.
