Certification

 

We are certified in accordance with the standard ÖNORM 15038; for this reason, our translators and proofreaders must meet the requirements of this standard. The requirements1) laid down by the standard are as follows:

 

3.2.2 Professional competences of translators

Translators shall have at least the following competences.

a) Translating competence: Translating competence comprises the ability to translate texts to the required level, (...). It includes the ability to assess the problems of text comprehension and text production as well as the ability to render the target text in accordance with the client-TSP agreement (...) and to justify the results.

b) Linguistic and textual competence in the source language and the target language: Linguistic and textual competence includes the ability to understand the source language and mastery of the target language. Textual competence requires knowledge of text type conventions for as wide a range of standard-language and specialised texts as possible, and includes the ability to apply this knowledge when producing texts.

c) Research competence, information acquisition and processing: Research competence includes the ability to efficiently acquire the additional linguistic and specialised knowledge necessary to understand the source text and to produce the target text. Research competence also requires experience in the use of research tools and the ability to develop suitable strategies for the efficient use of the information sources available.

d) Cultural competence: Cultural competence includes the ability to make use of information on the locale, behavioural standards and value systems that characterise the source and target cultures.

e) Technical competence: Technical competence comprises the abilities and skills required for the professional preparation and production of translations. This includes the ability to operate technical resources (...).

 

The above competences should be acquired through one or more of the following:

  • a formal higher education in translation (recognised degree);
  • an equivalent qualification in any other subject plus a minimum of two years of documented experience in translating;
  • at least five years of documented professional experience in translating.

 

3.2.3 Professional competences of revisers

Revisers shall have the competences as defined in 3.2.2, and should have translating experience in the domain under consideration.

 

3.2.4 Professional competences of reviewers

Reviewers shall be domain specialists in the target language.

 

3.2.5 Continuing professional development

The TSP shall ensure that the professional competences required by 3.2.2 are maintained and updated.

 

___________________________________________________________________

1) Excerpt taken from the official English version of the European Standard EN 15038:2006 / Date of issue: 2006-08-01