A document or statement that outlines the essential details of a translation project and provides a high-level overview of the subject matter. It acts as a guide for translators, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the final translated output. For instance, it may contain information about the target audience, the purpose of the translation, style guidelines, terminology requirements, and any specific instructions necessary for the project. Understanding the original context and providing a summary helps translators grasp the text’s intended meaning and nuances.
Such documentation is crucial for several reasons. It minimizes misunderstandings between the client and the translator, resulting in a more accurate and effective translation. Benefits include reduced revision cycles, improved quality control, and enhanced consistency across multiple projects. Historically, the absence of a comprehensive initial overview often led to mistranslations, increased costs, and delays in project completion. Well-defined briefs are therefore seen as a cornerstone of successful translation projects.
