Translating IT documentation requires a combination of technical competence, linguistic expertise and an understanding of how technical information is communicated effectively to different target audiences. The right competences, tools and processes are crucial for delivering translations that are both technically accurate and usable.
Technical competence and IT understanding
IT translators need to understand IT systems and software architecture to interpret technical documentation correctly, master IT terminology precisely in both source and target languages including system commands and technical concepts, as well as be familiar with operating systems, programming concepts and network terminology. Software localisation requires an understanding of how software functions, how user interfaces are structured and how string variables are handled. A translator must be able to work with character count limitations and understand the consequences of translations of varying lengths.
Target audience adaptation
IT documentation addresses different target audiences with varying levels of technical expertise. User manuals for end users must be educational and easily understood even for non-technical individuals. Administrator guides are aimed at IT personnel with technical competence. Developer documentation assumes programming knowledge. A language consultant must adapt the language and level of detail to the target audience whilst preserving technical accuracy. This requires both technical understanding and communication expertise.
Tools and processes
Professional IT translation requires specialised localisation tools that can handle software files in various formats such as XML, JSON, XLIFF or PO files, extract translatable text and reintegrate translations, whilst managing string variables and placeholder text correctly. IT term bases with verified terminology and localised system terms ensure consistent translation throughout all product documentation. Translation memories reuse previously translated content, which increases consistency and efficiency between product versions.
Quality assurance and testing
IT translations must be tested in context to ensure that translated interfaces function correctly, text is not truncated or creates layout issues and system messages and error messages are understandable to users. Functional testing of localised software is part of the quality assurance process. Fluid Translation is an experienced language partner with IT translation expertise that operates according to ISO standards with ISO-certified system support. We use translators with technical backgrounds or documented experience in software translation, apply the four-eyes principle where at least two technical experts review the translation, use professional localisation tools and build IT term bases that ensure consistent and accurate terminology across all product documentation and software versions.