Quality Guidelines for Content Localization in Life Sciences

By nature, Medical and Life Sciences content requires a high degree of accuracy; lives can literally depend upon the reader’s ability to understand critical information. The methodology used for localizing and translating this content is vital for providing accurate target language products.

To ensure optimal results in the localization of life science content:

• Make sure that the message is clearly communicated in the source language.

• Use style guides to provide a consistent look and feel across target markets.

• Use terminology lists and glossaries for consistent word choices.

• Optimize documentation templates to accommodate all target languages.

• Maintain and use translation memories for higher consistency (while reducing the costs of translation)

For precise life science localization clear content is crucial 

Medical and Life Sciences content is complex by its very nature. Expressing content in a concise, easy-to-understand manner can be challenging. If the message of your content is not obvious in English or any other source language, it is even less likely to be understood when translated to a target language. If you are involved in creating or editing such content, the following points help to ensure that your message is understood:

Keep it simple: The more complex the topic, the greater the need for simplicity and clarity in meaning. Software is now becoming affordable to assist with writing in simplified English. Such software helps the writer by enforcing simpler grammar structures and word choices.

The five C’s: Some rules of good writing ensure that the content’s intent is obvious and less open to interpretation. The “five C’s” provide a structure to achieve good writing with complex content: 

Argos Multilingual already has worked with a number of customers in Life Sciences to improve source content for better translation. We have provided guidance on how to avoid inappropriate content (such as North American historic references or slang within the content). Controlled English is often encouraged to reduce the number of similar phrases such as “single use only” and “use only once”. Consistent use of identical phrases, substantially reduce translation costs because previously translated text is leveraged more effectively. A database of reusable text for common repetitious items like cautions and warnings can also be created. – For more information: don’t miss our second part of Quality Guidelines for Content Localization in Life Science!

How can Argos help you with your next localization project? Have a look at our Life Sciences & Medical Translation Services or Contact Us to discuss your specific requirements!

Want to know more?

• Have a look at our whitepaper on the new Medical Device Regulations