You work at a business that’s going international. It relies on agile and fast-growing constant deployment to some degree. Your co-workers understand the notion of localization but still consider it an afterthought. 

There aren’t openly defined tools and processes. In its place, lots of physical work. Dispersed files. It distracts them, and it is a pain from their core work. 

As a product/ project manager, you are in a position to advocate for and know there is a better way and invest in a TMS (translation management system) – the key to driving localization at scale. 

What does a translation management system mean, and how does it work?

Largely, a translation management system (TMS) is software designed to back management of the certified translation service and localization process. It helps reduce manual tasks via automation, track the progress of translation projects, and to organize the localization workflow. 

Primarily translation software was mainly built for translators. The change to TMS puts more control in the hands of leaders while providing a flexible and fluid solution for team partnership across sections.

 Nowadays, there are various capable, specialized TMS on the market. While each is ideal for a definite use case, they usually include three main components:

· CAT (Computer-assisted translation tools)

· Workflow automation tools

· Project/team management and reporting

Top Tips for Selecting a Translation Management System (TMS)

Here are 13 vital factors to consider when you need help selecting a TMS:

1. Ease of implementation 

TMS should not require difficult programming or procedures for setup. A simple installation process should fit easily into your existing technology stack. For instance, with a TMS like Localize, you just need a line of code for your app or website to get started. Fitting should be that simple. 

2. Ease of usage

Functionality is vital. Look for a translation management system that doesn’t require additional resources and eliminates steps from your translation process. 

3. Integrations

Ensure your TMS has integral connectors to your present content management system (WordPress, Shopify, Zendesk, Salesforce, etc.). Also, confirm that your TMS can work with file formats that comprise content you want to interpret (email templates, spreadsheets, mobile apps, web apps, websites, etc.).

4. Real-time translation memory

Translation tools should contain a translation recall. Translation memory is a folder of past and current translations performed that you can recycle. This protects you from having to re-translate each line of new content.

5. Linguistic assets

These are translation sources that contain a style guide and glossary of terms. Linguistic assets support answering general questions about the impression it should make on its readers or how a translation should sound. 

6. Machine translation

Several systems come with fitted machine translation engines that can be used to instant-translate huge volumes of content for bilingual translation projects. A native human translator can then polish this translated content. 

Another valuable software component is a (computer-assisted translation) CAT tool that can help with quick and certified translation services. 

7. Compliance and security

Because of the plenty of cybersecurity pressures, a TMS should have strong security protocols to protect confidential and sensitive information about its translation projects and clients. 

Of all the security parts to be concerned about, one of the most demanding is the Europeans Unions General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). 

Reliable TMS tools like Localize, in addition to GDPR, adhere to the physical, technical, and administrative safeguards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Security Rule. 

8. Customer support

Responsive and quick responsive support is vital for all TMS users. A great customer support team will form the primary line of defense against software errors, glitches, or other technical issues.

9. Vendor dependence and management 

A good translation platform should not prevent your business from working with a range of providers and should not be dependent on one vendor. 

Look for a system that allows you to switch between professional and cloud-based translation services. 

10.  Workflow changes and automation

Flexibility is vital for international organizations, particularly if you have complex processes or workflows. Look for a translation management system that lets workflow modifies mid-process. The Localize platform features innovative translation workflows, enabling content managers and translators to publish and review translations easily.

11.  Scalability

Your document management system needs to grow with your global business. In other words, it needs to be accessible.

12.  Reporting

An ideal translation management system offers data through on-demand and real-time reports. Reporting should contain quality and translation speed information across specific locales and markets. 

13.  Price

Investors may have a budget when considering how much TMS expenditures. Though, it’s also vital to consider quality and value. The famous adage says, “You get what you pay for”, and translation quality matters immensely. 

Wrapping up

A translation management system is perfect for large to small companies with a bulk load of content to market and translate and plans to expand their business overseas. 

Knowing how to select the accurate translation software for your business is similarly important because a wrong choice could be counterproductive. While going through the choices, you should:

1. Recognise your team's needs.

2. Reduce your options based on these requirements.