CAT Tools: All You Need to Know About Computer-Assisted Translation

Translating your website into just 8 languages enables you to reach 80% of the online purchasing power globally. This is the impact of translating your content for a global audience. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to handle all of this manually.

In fact, nearly 88% of professional translators rely on at least one computer-assisted translation (CAT) tool to facilitate their work. The reason is simple: CAT tools not only save time but also streamline the translation process, leading to more accurate results.

Our guide will walk you through how to effectively use CAT tools to their full potential and maximize the impact of these resources.

But first, let’s cover the basics.

What is Computer Assisted Translation (CAT)?

Computer-assisted translation (CAT) or computer-aided human translation involves the use of specialized software to assist and support human translators in their work. In this approach, human translators are primarily responsible for the translation process, while computers play a supportive role, helping to reduce the time and effort required for translation.

CAT differs from machine translation (MT), which focuses on automating translation using computer algorithms. More on this later.

Most CAT tools available in the market come with features such as:

• Translation Memory: A database stores previously translated phrases and sentences. When you have similar segments in a new project, the TM suggests and matches the translatable strings.
• Terminology Management: This feature helps translators ensure that specific terms are translated the same way every time they appear.
• Quality Assurance (QA): CAT tools can identify potential issues, such as inconsistencies in or missing translations and formatting errors before you finalize your work.

How Do CAT Tools Work?

CAT tools can be extremely useful in empowering translators to do their work more efficiently and effectively.

Here’s a streamlined overview of a typical workflow when using CAT tools:

1. Upload Source Text: Start by adding the content you want translated (the source text) into the CAT tool. You can upload documents in various formats, such as DOCX, HTML, XML, and more.
2. Segment the Text: Break the source text down into smaller sections, like sentences or paragraphs. Each of these segments is treated as a separate unit for translation.
3. View Translation Interface: Take a look at the source segment alongside a blank segment for your translation. This side-by-side format makes it easier to work.
4. Reuse Previous Translations: As you begin translating, the CAT tool scans the Translation Memory (TM) for previously translated segments. If it finds a match, you can simply reuse it.
5. Check for Consistency: The tool checks a termbase—a database of approved terminology—and glossaries to suggest relevant terms. This ensures your translations remain consistent and accurate.
6. Translate to Target Language(s): Now it’s time for the actual translation. The tool offers real-time assistance to help you speed things along.
7. Check for Errors: After completing the translation, the CAT tool conducts quality assurance checks, highlighting potential issues for review before you finalize everything.
8. Preview in Real-Time: Some CAT tools allow you to see how your translations will look in the final document. This feature helps you adjust translations to fit the overall layout and context.
9. Review and Export: Once you’ve completed the translation and QA checks, take a moment to review the entire document to ensure high quality. Finally, you can export the translated file in your preferred format.
10. Translation Memory Updated: The CAT tool updates the Translation Memory with your new translations, so future projects can benefit from these additions.

Why Do You Need a CAT Software Tool?

Translators agree that using translation software like CAT tools increases their productivity by at least 30%. 

And here’s why:

• You can reuse previously translated text segments to work faster and avoid repetitive tasks
• Built-in QA features let you catch errors early for accurate translations
• Integrated glossaries and terminology management ensure that your translations are consistent
• CAT tools often support real-time collaboration, allowing multiple team members to work on a project simultaneously.

Machine Translation vs. Computer-Assisted Translation

Before exploring CAT tools further, it’s important to understand how they differ from other machine translation (MT) tools on the market. 

As we said in the beginning, computer-assisted translation and machine translation work differently and serve distinct purposes. Here’s how.

MT automatically analyzes the source text and generates a translation in the target language. While this method is effective for straightforward content, it often falls short when it comes to capturing cultural nuances. As a result, human post-editing is usually necessary to ensure quality.

In essence, although MT tools aim to streamline the translation process, they frequently lack the level of quality that human translators can provide.

In contrast, CAT tools do not automate the translation process; instead, they enhance the capabilities of human translators through features like translation memory (TM) and terminology management. This approach boosts workflow efficiency while allowing human oversight throughout the process.

In some cases, these tools may also incorporate MT capabilities to further improve productivity.

With recent technological advancements, many organizations have moved towards a more integrated localization strategy. This approach blends the speed of MT with the accuracy and consistency offered by CAT tools, typically utilizing a cloud-based solution known as a Translation Management System (TMS).

TMS vs CAT Tool: What’s the Difference?

A Translation Management System (TMS) is an all-inclusive platform that integrates machine and computer-aided translations with project management functionalities. It complements your CMS or code repository, supporting multilingual content creation.

To put it simply, TMS is not a standalone software. Instead, it has built-in localization features, including CAT features, and/or integrates with such tools to implement the end-to-end translation process. 

For instance, Transifex is an all-in-one AI-driven platform for managing your translations and localization. It’s packed with all the necessary CAT-tool features like TM, QA features, and integrated glossaries, as well as powerful localization features and integrations into a central AI-powered hub to support you throughout the project lifecycle.

Why Transifex Stands Out as a Powerful Alternative to Traditional CAT Tools

Using the right software can help you cut translation costs by 90%, which would otherwise be spent on manual processes, database searches, or costly human translation. 

But with so many CAT and MT tools in the market, choosing the one that best suits your business needs can be overwhelming. You must also figure out which features matter for your business and the tool’s limitations. 

This is where Transifex can help with its end-to-end localization solution. The AI-powered localization platform removes the need for separate CAT tools, and external MTs through its all-in-one TMS solution. 

Outperforming over 30 competitors and ranked as the #1 translation and localization software by G2, here are the top Transifex features that make it stand out:

Translation Memory

As we mentioned earlier, Transifex has powerful CAT features, one of which is Translation Memory (TM).

Transifex TM stores your translations as phrases or words. And when it comes across another phrase that is 100% identical, it automatically fills up the translation for you. However, if a phrase is 1% inaccurate, the tool provides you with TM suggestions instead of an automatic fill-up.

You can easily enable the TM “Fill Up” option to automate the process or keep it disabled if you want to review the available suggestions before adding the final translation. 

But it’s not just about the translation accuracy. The context of your translated content plays an equally important role. To help with this, Transifex’s TM also provides a “Context Matching” option.

Simply enable the option from the settings and start adding context to phrases by using the editor while translating. This ensures your content conveys the intended message in all target languages.

Integrated Glossaries and Style guides

To grow a global business, you must build a consistent brand image that transcends borders. This is where glossaries and style guides can come in handy.

Transifex allows you to easily link your project to any existing glossaries. You can also create your unique style guides and assign them to projects. All your industry-specific terms and brand voice guidelines are now available within a single interface.

Note that glossary terms are automatically underlined inside the Transifex Editor so that translators can refer to the Glossary for that string in real-time. You can also refer to the Style Guide from the editor’s header.

AI for Unmatched Translation Quality and Humanized content

The latest upgrade to Transifex is the addition of artificial intelligence (AI). It leverages your glossaries, company profile, labeled data, TM, and our human experts to provide automated, context-based translations that speak your unique voice. 

With 75% fewer manual tasks and 10x faster time-to-market, Transifex’s AI engine allows you to:

• Translate a huge volume of content in multiple languages in a single click
• Leverage cutting-edge technologies like NLP, ML, and automation not just to translate but also to optimize your entire localization process for cultural and contextual adaptation
• Drive more traffic from your target markets with SEO-optimized translations 
• Ensure your content fits any UI layout with the “Transifex AI Shorten translation” feature for the best user experience
• Deploy faster and experiment with your campaigns to quickly meet market demands and reduce time-to-market.

Unlike third-party ML engines, Transifex’s AI-powered localization platform incorporates your company’s unique context into translation and integrates with your workflow. 

Transifex AI produces over 65% of translations that require minimal to no edits. 

But don’t just take our word for it, Sign Up for a 15-day free trial and see it for yourself.

Customizable Workflows and Real-time Collaboration Features

Transifex provides advanced collaboration tools so that you can bring developers, translators, marketers, and product managers together in one place. You can also customize your workflow according to your unique needs.

It features an easy-to-use dashboard that allows you to track your progress and translation status at a glance. This way, you can quickly identify which content has been translated, what remains unfinished, and any outstanding issues that need attention.. 

Alternatively, you can view your project progress and status as per the assigned team tasks.

Tech Stack Compatibility

The right translation or localization solution must be compatible with your current tech stack and meet your individual needs.

Transifex brings multiple such features to help simplify integrating the platform into your workflow, including:

• Powerful integrations include content management systems (CMS), version control systems (VCS), and development frameworks. This compatibility ensures you can start using Transifex with your existing tech stack without any significant changes.
• The platform offers API and webhook support to automate tasks and integrate Transifex with your custom applications.
• As a cloud-based solution, Transifex provides accessibility from anywhere. So your team can work on translations regardless of their location.
• Transifex supports continuous localization for real-time updates and synchronization of content. This feature ensures that translations are always up-to-date and consistent with the latest source material.

Want to try out the tool for your translation project? Get a 15-day free trial or Book a demo.

Steps for Choosing and Integrating the Right CAT Tool

Choosing the right CAT tool is crucial; it should align with your needs and integrate smoothly with your team’s workflow. After all, the goal is to enhance your productivity, not complicate things further.

Here’s a simple guide to choosing the right CAT tool for your business:

• Assess Your Translation Needs: Start by assessing your organization’s translation needs. This must include the volume and complexity of projects, target languages, existing painpoints, budget constraints, and team size. 
• Research CAT Tools: Check the options available and compare their features, pricing, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing systems. 
• Evaluate Key Features: Not all CAT tools are built the same. It is important to see what they offer and how it can benefit your business. Most tools should have standard features like translation memory, glossary management, quality assurance checks, collaboration tools, and reporting capabilities. Determine which features are essential for your organization’s workflow and prioritize tools that offer them.
• Test and Trial: Most tools in the market offer free demo or trial versions. It’s a good idea to test the shortlisted CAT tools before deciding. Involve your team members in the evaluation process to ensure the chosen tool meets their needs and preferences.
• Make Your Selection: Based on your assessment and testing, select the CAT tool that best aligns with your organization’s requirements and objectives. Don’t forget to consider factors such as user experience, support options, and scalability to ensure a long-term fit for your organization.
• Integrate the Tool: Customize the tool’s settings and workflows to fit your translation process. Ensure the tool is compatible with other tools and platforms used in your workflow. Remember to take your time and get familiar with the tool. Start building your TM, style guides, and glossaries, and customize settings to own your workflow.

How to Implement CAT Tools into Your Translation Workflow?

Once you have selected a CAT tool, implement it into your workflow using the following steps: 

1. Provide Training and Onboarding

The first step to a smooth implementation is to provide comprehensive training and onboarding for your team members. 

Offer tutorials, documentation, and hands-on practice sessions to familiarize them with the tool’s interface and functionalities. Ensure everyone understands how to use key features such as translation memory, glossaries, and quality assurance checks.

2. Customize Workflows

Now it’s time to customize the CAT tool’s workflows to fit your organization’s unique requirements. Start by defining processes for translation, review, and approval. 

Don’t forget to establish guidelines for using features such as translation memory, glossaries, and style guides. Always ensure that workflows are clear and well-distributed among the team members.

3. Integrate with Existing Systems

Once you have defined all prerequisites, integrate the CAT tool with your existing systems. 

Ensure your CAT tool is compatible with your CMS, VCS, and other platforms in your workflow. Configure settings and permissions to facilitate collaboration and data sharing across the platforms.

4. Start Translating

When you start a new translation project, you’ll import the document you are translating (the source text) into your CAT tool. Most tools can handle different file formats, so no need to worry if it’s a Word doc, PDF, or something else.

CAT tools segment the document you translate into smaller, more manageable pieces. As you translate each segment, the CAT tool checks its TM to see if it remembers translating something similar.

If it finds a match, it suggests the translation. You can now accept the suggested translation, edit it a little if needed, or skip it altogether if the context is different.

However, don’t just rely on the TM’s suggestions. CAT tools also have QA features to help you catch typos, mistakes, or anything that sounds irrelevant.

5. Monitor and Optimize Performance

Continuously assess the performance of your CAT tool to pinpoint improvement areas. Gather feedback from team members and clients to ensure their satisfaction and address any challenges or issues.

You can also use the built-in analytics and reporting features to track key metrics such as translation speed, quality, and cost savings. 

Bonus Tips to Get the Most Out of Your CAT Tool

So, you have chosen your CAT tool and integrated it into your workflow. Now, you are ready to translate.

Here are some bonus tips to get the most out of your CAT tools:

2. Leverage Online Communities: Most CAT tools have user communities which are a goldmine of information and support. From troubleshooting tips and industry-specific knowledge to exploring advanced features, you will find most of your answers here.
3. Use Machine Translation (MT) Strategically: While not replacing human expertise, some CAT tools integrate with MT engines. You can use this for simple, straightforward content to create a rough first draft. This saves you time by providing a starting point you can refine with your human expertise.
4. Use the Collaboration Features: If you work on team translation projects, use the collaboration features offered by some CAT tools. See your team’s progress and edits in real time or contribute to a shared TM – the possibilities are endless with the right CAT tool.

Final Thoughts

No matter if you opt for a dedicated CAT tool or an integrated solution like Transifex, implementing the strategies mentioned will significantly enhance your global strategy.

To experience the benefits of Transifex firsthand get a 15-min demo today!

FAQs:

How Do CAT Tools Benefit Freelance Translators vs. Translation Agencies?

CAT tools offer freelance translators and translation agencies numerous benefits, including increased productivity, translation consistency, and efficient workflow management. 

Freelancers can use CAT tools to provide faster output and easily manage different projects. On the other hand, agencies can use them to coordinate larger translation projects with multiple team members.

Can CAT Tools Translate Entire Documents Automatically?

CAT tools can automate certain aspects of the translation process, however, they typically require human input to produce accurate and contextually appropriate translations. 

So, while they facilitate the translation process, they do not translate entire documents automatically without human oversight.

What is the best free translation memory (CAT) software?

Several free translation memory (CAT) software options are available, each with its strengths and limitations. However, the “best” software depends on individual preferences, project requirements, and familiarity with the tool’s interface and features.

One of the leading translation and localization solutions in the market – Transifex, though not free, comes with a 15-day free trial to test the software for your project.