DTP or Desktop Publishing involves creating layouts and formatting graphics and documents using DTP software along with creative skills that permit the creation of print materials like books, magazines, menus, user manuals, and presentations.
Multi-lingual DTP involves the recreation of translated documents such that they are similar to the original source document as much as possible in terms of design and layout. Even the smallest issues in format or layout can result in an adverse reaction from your target audience, no matter how great the translation.
In most cases, when companies request translation services, there is a good chance that there is an extra service of DTP service that will be priced in the final quote. So, why is DTP so vital for translation projects?
DTP is the creation of documents using skills of the page layout. In the context of translation, DTP comes after the stages of translation, proofreading, and editing. It is the formatting of localized text for matching source text.
Whatever be the quality of translation, files with small typos, layout inconsistencies, or truncations can seriously impact the brand image. This is particularly in the case of high visibility content such as newsletters, packaging, brochures, etc.
Nowadays, DTP can be used on several source files ranging from Word and Excel to Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw.
Based on the file format, the stages of DTP can include:
- Layout check of localised document for ensuring that it reflects fonts, layout, format and styles of documents of source language.
- Check for images or untranslated images or text in the body.
- Ascertain proper functionality of hyperlinks.
- Check against overlapping/ hidden text behind images or cut-off translations.
- Adjust the layout to include text expansion/ reduction
- Formatting of graphics, boxes, numbering, bullets etc.
- The capture of screenshots/localized graphics to be included, like in the case of the localized user guide.
- Localization of graphics such as editing and translation in the suitable application (e.g., Photoshop)
- Regeneration of table of contents
Why hire professionals?
You might ask yourself: why should the DTP do by the translation company? Can it not be done by your in-house design team?
There is a simple answer. DTP specialists working in translation companies have much experience in dealing with multi-lingual content. They are trained in making use of multiple file formats and platforms in several scripts and languages.
They can easily deal with double-byte languages of Asia, European languages, and also right to left scripts like Hebrew or Arabic.
Your design team may be reluctant to hand over design work to a translation agency, but it must be noted that all designers are not qualified to work in other languages. More mistakes and confusion can arise when you are not familiar with the conventions and norms of a foreign language. In place of saving money and time, it can result in more expenses for the company down the line.
After the DTP stage, the file will be passed to a linguist for a final language check, ensuring that the final file looks and feels like it was created for the targeted language market.
In sum, though it is tempting to complete DTP projects in-house, it pays to outsource, hire professionals and completely trust the translation company.