Style Guide Development

As we all know, the issues of translation accuracy and terminology management receive a lot of attention when translating content into multiple languages. However, style guides are equally important to keep the translation accurate with a company’s desired image and corporate message. As a professional localization provider, CSOFT always incorporates a style guide along with TM tools and terminology management glossaries into the translation kit to give the translator all the necessary tools to deliver a high quality, accurate translation that is consistent across languages and global markets. CSOFT will work with you to develop or update your company’s style guide. We consider it part of our services and, in general, a good practice for each and every project.

Style guides can differ slightly simply because they are unique to the needs of each company. However, typically style guides will include any guidelines that the company feels will lead to a more representative translation. For instance, company specific jargon or product information that should not be translated should be included in a style guide. Also, specific publishing needs a company might have for a target language are equally important. Without a style guide, this information can be lost or forgotten. Frequently, localization projects are carried out with tight timelines. The translation quality may be accurate, but time and money can still be lost if rework is necessary over style inconsistencies.

While style guides do not take the place of Terminology Management Glossaries, trained linguists, professional Project Managers and other validation methods, do provide a strong and consistent foundation to work from and reduce project time and cost.