What is Desktop Publishing (DTP)?
Translation is one thing, but presentation is quite another. Desktop Publishing (DTP) is the process of using specialist software to design the layout and formatting of your documents. These documents could be anything from user manuals and menus to brochures and marketing leaflets.
There are many factors to consider when trying to replicate your designs in multiple languages. For example, if you have a document in English that has been translated into Welsh, the Welsh version is likely to take up more space and this needs to be considered when formatting the translated version of your design. This is also the case for many other languages. Some languages, such as Arabic, will also read right to left, which will have big implications for the design of your translated document.
If you have drafted a perfectly designed brochure in your original language, don’t be let down by poor formatting in your translated versions. BLS can help!
At Business Language Services, not only can we provide you with a quality translation produced to your exact specification and timescales, but we can also mirror the design and formatting so that your document retains its visual appeal. This avoids the need to use separate designers with the inherent risk of errors creeping in and content being altered during the final publishing process.
Why Choose BLS for your Multilingual DTP Needs?
- Experienced multilingual DTP experts
- Able to work with a wide range of file formats
- Full-service solution
- In-context checks by experienced linguists
How Does it Work?
1.
Text is professionally translated into the desired language(s) by processing the original design file with our industry-leading software.
2.
Expert multilingual DTP process on the translated design file.
3.
Finished design file is checked in context by experienced linguists and final amendments implemented.
4.
Publishable/print-ready multilingual files are presented to the client.
Need Our Help with Multilingual DTP?
Desktop Publishing FAQs
We are well-versed in handling a wide variety of file formats, with the most common software being Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe FrameMaker and Microsoft Office applications. Please get in touch if your file is in another format to see if we can help.
We strive to offer DTP services in as many languages as possible. If we are unable to handle the language you require, we will be sure to let you know at the outset. We are, however, able to handle most languages, including languages which read right-to-left and left-to-right. We also understand the layout and cultural intricacies that will impact on your design. For example, some colours may portray different messages in different countries, and formatting features such as bold or italicised text are a no-go in some languages. Our team will advise and suggest solutions to overcome these challenges.
Yes, all documents will undergo thorough proofreading and quality assurance steps before delivery, in line with our standard processes for all of our translation service levels.
By opting for a combined translation and DTP solution from BLS, your costs will likely be lower by avoiding the need to hire a separate designer on completion of the translation process. The specific costs will vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the project, the languages involved and the length of your document. The cost for DTP would normally be on a cost-per-page basis and costs will be outlined in detail on your quotation.