The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes to the way businesses operate, and translation agencies are no exception. As remote work becomes the new norm, translation businesses must adapt by leveraging digital tools to streamline operations, ensure collaboration, and maintain productivity. Here are five essential tools that can help run a translation business effectively during the pandemic:
5 Essential Tools That Help Run a Translation Business During the Pandemic
Employee Monitoring Software – Controlio
As translation agencies transition to remote work models, monitoring employee productivity and ensuring data security become increasingly important. Controlio is an employee monitoring software that helps translation businesses track employee activities and monitor productivity in real-time. Controlio allows managers to monitor employee computer usage, track time spent on specific tasks, and generate detailed reports on employee productivity and efficiency. Additionally, Controlio provides features such as keystroke logging, application usage monitoring, and screenshot capture, enabling translation agencies to ensure compliance with data security policies and protect sensitive information. Take a demo of the employee monitoring software free and find out yourself.
Translation Management Systems (TMS)
Translation Management Systems are essential software platforms designed specifically for managing translation projects efficiently. TMS tools streamline the entire translation workflow, from project creation and assignment to translation, editing, and proofreading. They facilitate collaboration among translators, editors, and project managers by providing centralized access to project files, glossaries, and translation memories. Popular TMS solutions include SmartCAT, Memsource, and SDL Trados, which offer features such as project tracking, automated workflows, and integration with CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools.
CAT Tools
Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools are indispensable for translators, helping them work more efficiently by providing features such as translation memory, terminology management, and quality assurance checks. CAT tools enhance productivity by allowing translators to reuse previously translated segments, maintain consistency across documents, and automate repetitive tasks. Popular CAT tools include SDL Trados Studio, MemoQ, and Wordfast, which offer advanced features tailored to the needs of professional translators. Try online courses and apps
Video Conferencing Software
With face-to-face meetings no longer feasible in many cases, video conferencing software has become essential for maintaining communication and collaboration among team members and clients. Video conferencing tools enable translation agencies to conduct virtual meetings, client consultations, and project discussions in real-time, regardless of participants’ locations. Platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet offer features such as screen sharing, chat functionality, and recording capabilities, facilitating seamless collaboration in a remote work environment.
Project Management Software
Effective project management is crucial for ensuring the successful completion of translation projects on time and within budget. Project management software provides translation agencies with tools to plan, organize, and track project progress, as well as allocate resources and manage timelines effectively. Platforms like Asana, Trello, and Monday.com offer features such as task assignment, project scheduling, and progress monitoring, enabling translation agencies to streamline project workflows and optimize resource allocation.
Final Words
Running a translation business during the pandemic requires leveraging digital tools to facilitate communication, collaboration, and productivity in a remote work environment. By embracing digital tools and adapting to remote work practices, translation businesses can navigate the complexities of the pandemic and continue to deliver high-quality translation services to clients worldwide.
