We recently explored automatic translation – online automatic translation, in particular – and how it offers certain advantages, namely the fact that it is instantaneous and free. However, we looked at the quality issues inherent in this solution: simple grammar rules, insufficient translation memory and so on, and we recommended these tools be used to grasp the general gist of a text.
Most of these tools (Reverso, Babylon, Voila, etc.) rely on the Systran programme. Google, however, is the exception, since it has developed its own translation system, Google Translate.
Determined not to give up while things are going well and fully aware of the limitations of its service, Google even considered creating Google Translation Center, a system that hinges on crowdsourcing*. The interface would put internet users in contact with a pool of translators throughout the world. Announced in 2008, this idea has yet to become a reality.
In its bid to find additional tools, Google admitted to the shortcomings of automatic translation and developed a hybrid system: Google Translator Toolkit. The interface translates documents, allowing internet users to modify the automatically generated translations. Every user, be they a professional or not, therefore adds to the growing database.
Assuming that this kind of tool becomes reliable – through continuous improvement in quality – a major problem, which can only be overcome by calling on the services of an established translation company, still remains: confidentiality.
Read section 11 “Content license from you” of Google Terms of Service. All information submitted to Google, using tools such as Google Translate, can be used and saved by the Internet giant which holds the rights to do so whenever anybody uses its services.
To sum up, automatic translation tools are still rather basic, despite developments, and are aimed at non-professionals.
If you require a professional translation of standard and ‘sensitive’ documents, in particular, make sure you read the service provider’s terms and conditions where you will find confidentiality information. At CG Traduction & Interprétation, confidentiality is key, as is the quality of your translations. Read Section 4 “Obligations of CG Traduction & Interprétation” in our General conditions of sale.
* Crowdsourcing: is the act of outsourcing tasks, traditionally performed by an employee or contractor, to an undefined, large group of people or community (a “crowd”), through an open call (Source: Wikipedia). Wikipedia itself is a prime example of crowdsourcing, since a collaborative effort ensures that the database grows.
For further information or to request a quote from CG, please read our translation, interpreting and transcription pages.