FAQs

Common Questions About Translation
& Interpretation

QUESTIONS?
WE HAVE ANSWERS.

You’re not alone if you have questions about translation and interpretation.
We have compiled a list below that covers many common questions we get about what we do.
But if you have a question you can’t find an answer for here, don’t hesitate to contact us!

TRANSLATION FAQs

What is translation?
Translation takes the written word from one language to another so individuals and businesses have the documents and forms they need.

How much does a translation cost?
There are a number of factors that determine what it will cost us to do a translation: the type of document, the length, the difficulty of the document (subject matter), the formatting, and the turnaround time.

Why do you have to see my document to determine the cost?
We need to determine the type of document and do a word count to determine the size. We also assess if the translation will require any research time because of technical content. All these factors help us give an accurate estimate of the price and turnaround time.

How do I know my documents will be safe?
HIT Services has the highest regard for your privacy and security. We dispose of all documents after the quoting process. We have a non-disclosure agreement available to guarantee that the document will be used only for quoting.

Can I just use Google Translate?
Google Translate is certainly a good tool to figure out some word options, however, it will miss the context and cultural nuances of the language which our translators understand. Another limitation of Google Translate is that it provides a word-for-word translation, which is rarely accurate.

How long does a translation take?
The turnaround time depends on the length and difficulty of the document. Once one of our translators has reviewed the document, we are able to provide an accurate turnaround time. If a translation is needed sooner we will work to accommodate this need; however, that will usually imply additional fees.

I need a certified translation; can you provide that?
We provide certified translations that are printed on our company’s letterhead and have a signed and notarized certificate of accuracy. The certificate states that the translation has been performed following the standards of the language industry and is accurate to the best of our knowledge.

I already have a translation; can you just certify it for me?
When we certify a translation, we are stating that the translation is correct. Since certification requires proofreading and revision, we can only certify translations that have been performed by one of our team of translators at HIT Services.

Who does the translation?
Because experience and training are so important, our translators have been carefully selected to work with HIT Services. We use certified translators, whenever possible, for all the languages in which certification is available. Due to the lack of availability of certification in some languages, we also utilize qualified translators, who have proven experience and training. All HIT Services translators follow the standards of the foreign language industry.

INTERPRETATION FAQs

What is interpretation?
When language is a barrier to oral communication, our interpretation services connect you with the people you serve.

What is an interpreter?
Our interpreters are skilled professionals whose job is to accurately relay communications for you from one language to another.

What qualifications should an interpreter have?
Our interpreters are fully bilingual with excellent short-term memory. They have extensive knowledge of vocabulary and a thorough understanding of culture. They are guided by the ethics, procedures, and laws for the profession.

What is a certified interpreter?
The certified interpreters on our team have passed a series of evaluations that recognize they have met certain standards. Because it is a fairly new process, certification is not available for all specializations of interpretation and all languages.

In what situations is interpretation needed?
Our interpreters serve clients in a variety of situations, from hospitals and court rooms to parent/teacher conferences and employee seminars. Anywhere language separates people, our interpreters can bridge the communication gap.

Who needs an interpreter?
Our interpreters’ skills are put to use for anyone whose proficiency in English is an obstacle to effective communication. We also provide interpreters for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Is an interpreter needed for every procedure or encounter?
We recommend that an interpreter is used each and every time that language and culture present barriers to communication.

Can any bilingual individual be an interpreter?
It takes more than a bilingual person to be an interpreter. Our interpreters have specialized training and skills that enable them to relay a message from one language to another without adding, omitting, or changing the message.

Who should not interpret?
Bilingual children, family members, and friends should not be called on to interpret. While they know the specific language, they have not been trained in the skills, guidelines and ethics that all of our interpreters are required to have.

Are there any laws regarding interpretation?

  • The Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1996
  • Executive Order 13166
  • Americans With Disabilities Act
  • CLAS Standards
  • Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act

Are there any risks on not providing interpretation?
Our interpreters enable you to avoid miscommunication with your clientele. This reduces your risk of liability while increasing satisfaction with the services you provide.

CONTACT US

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

If you are interested in learning more about how HIT Services can help you or your organization, or if you have any questions about our services, please fill out the form below and we will get in touch with you shortly!

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You can also call us at 864-469-5200