Computers have changed the way translators do their jobs. Not long ago, translating a text was a difficult and tedious process. Armed with several hardbound dictionaries and reference books, translators had to rely solely on their knowledge.
Things have changed ever since. Dictionaries and references have been digitalized and are available online. What’s more, sophisticated programs assist the translation process thereby reducing the time to complete the task. Collectively, such computer programs are known as computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools.
While several CAT tools have found their ways to the arsenal of professional translators, one has been particularly favored, Trados Studio. This is the main engine behind efficient freelance translators and language service companies.
If you have not jumped on the bandwagon, you are missing out on the chance to speed up your workflow. You do not necessarily have to adopt Trados Studio for your translation work though. Other programs could also meet your requirements. In comparison to other translation programs, Trados Studio has some advantages and disadvantages. Let us review some of them:
- Reliability. Trados Studio is a desktop-first translation program, which means you install the program on your computer. Running the software and storing the translation memory files on your computer has a big disadvantage. If your computer crashes or is stolen, you may be out of business for a long time. Contrastingly, web-based translation software allows you to access your files immediately from another computer and resume your work straight away. These types of programs run on your browser and are less prone to errors and software incompatibilities. But web-based translation programs are more consistent and reliable as long as your Internet connection is reliable too. Also, if you choose a desktop-first program as an alternative to Trados Studio, you will not necessarily gain in reliability;
- Cost. Trados Studio is expensive software, with the version for freelancers currently sold at $629 (reduced price). Upgrades will add to this price eventually. On the other hand, web-based translation solutions are generally much cheaper. Bugs are continuously being fixed and patches installed at no cost for the user. However, before deciding on a web-based solution, you should accurately calculate the benefits you get versus the money you pay. Trados Studio may be expensive, but ultimately you get what you pay for;
- User-friendliness. Trados Studio’s interface has not changed much from its first version. Granted, the program has many powerful functions. But learning to use them all requires many hours of training. Some alternatives to Trados Studio are easier to work with, albeit with fewer functionalities;
- Trados Studio desktop application runs on Windows only, whereas other solutions offer the possibility to work on Mac or Android computers.
Despite the above points, Trados Studio is the CAT tool used by many translation companies. Hence, freelancers have to adapt to it in most cases. If this is not the case, you can explore other alternatives and assess whether they suit your needs.