Software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign offer designers immense creative freedom, using layers, effects, and intricate layouts. Translating these layered files can seem daunting, but fear not! This blog delves into the world of translating design files using Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools.

Challenges of Translating Layered Design Files

While translating text-based images involves extracting text for translation, layered design files present a different set of challenges:

• Embedded Text: Text within the design file might be embedded as rasterized elements (pixels) or vector objects (scalable shapes). Rasterized text poses a problem, as it cannot be easily extracted for translation without sacrificing quality.

• Formatting and Context: Design files rely heavily on visual cues – layout, spacing, and color – to convey meaning. Extracting text alone can strip away crucial context, making translation more difficult.

• Software Compatibility: CAT tools are designed to work with text files, not design software. Integrating translated text back into the layered file requires additional steps and expertise.

Embracing the Power of CAT Tools for Layered Design Files

Despite these challenges, CAT offer valuable functionalities that can streamline the translation process for layered design files. Here's how:

• Terminology Management: CAT tools allow you to create and manage terminology databases specific to your client's brand or industry. This ensures consistent translation of terms and phrases across all design elements.

• Translation Memory (TM) Leverage: Even if the text within the design file cannot be directly extracted, TM can still be incredibly helpful. If your company has translated similar marketing materials or UI elements in the past, the TM can suggest relevant matches, saving time and effort.

• Segment Editor and Fuzzy Matches: Segment editors provide a user-friendly platform for breaking down the translation process. While the actual design elements might not be editable within the CAT tool, you can segment the text based on its visual context (e.g., "button text," "headline"). The segment editor can then suggest "fuzzy matches" from the TM based on similar content, even if the exact wording doesn't match.

The Art of Collaboration: Translators, Designers, and Project Managers

While CAT tools provide valuable assistance, translating layered design files is ultimately a collaborative effort. Here's how different team members contribute:

• Translators: Using the CAT tool's segment editor and fuzzy matches, translators can translate the extracted text and leverage terminology resources to ensure consistency. They can also leave comments for designers regarding any ambiguities or layout concerns.

• Designers: Designers play a crucial role in preparing the files for translation. Ideally, they can provide editable text layers whenever possible. They can also collaborate with translators to clarify context and ensure the translated text fits within the original design constraints.

• Project Managers: Project managers act as the glue, coordinating communication between translators, designers, and clients. They ensure deadlines are met and any technical issues are addressed efficiently.

Strategies for Success: File Preparation and Integration

Here are some additional strategies to ensure a smooth translation process for layered design files:

• File Preparation: Whenever possible, designers should provide editable text layers within the design file. This allows for seamless text extraction and replacement with translated text.

• Contextual Information: Providing translators with additional information about the project, such as target audience and brand guidelines, can significantly improve the quality of the translation.

• Localization Kits: For complex projects, creating "localization kits" with style guides, reference images, and glossaries can ensure consistent translation and maintain the overall design language.

• Integration Tools: Several third-party tools exist that bridge the gap between CAT tools and design software. These tools allow for easier integration of translated text back into the layered design file, streamlining the final stage of the process.

By leveraging the power of CAT tools, fostering collaboration between team members, and implementing effective file preparation strategies, your translation company can conquer the challenges of translating layered design files. This allows you to offer clients a comprehensive solution for multilingual marketing materials and user interfaces, empowering them to reach a wider global audience.