FAQ
Welcome to my FAQ!
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about the translation process, rates, or how to request services? Look no further! I’ve compiled answers to common questions to provide clarity and insight into my professional translation services. Explore the FAQ section for a quick understanding of what I offer and how I can assist you. If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out – I’m here to help!
- Bokmål or Nynorsk?
In Norway, there are two language variants, both holding equal administrative status. However, Bokmål tends to be more widely employed in written language. If you’re uncertain about the variant you require, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ll gladly assist you in obtaining the most fitting translation for your audience.
- Where can I find more information about buying translation services?
I value ensuring that you possess all the necessary information and comprehension before committing to the purchase of Norwegian translation services. My go-to reference for accuracy is the « Getting it Right Guide » from the SFT. Feel free to explore my Quality page for additional insights. Your confidence in making an informed decision matters.
- What is this CAT-tool everyone is talking about?
Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools play a pivotal role in supporting translators and linguists, significantly enhancing translation productivity and efficiency. These specialized software applications are designed to assist professionals in managing and streamlining the translation process. Among the various CAT tools available, I particularly value and utilize the SDL Trados program. This tool not only facilitates the translation process but also contributes to maintaining a high level of consistency in my work, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of the final output.
- How do you establish word counts and how do you charge?
I establish translation prices by utilizing the electronic word count feature in MS Word or SDL Trados, providing an accurate and transparent cost estimation before commencing any project. This method eliminates the need for manual word counting, which is both imprecise and impractical. Additionally, this eases the invoicing process as we agree upfront on the word count.
- Do you charge minimum fees?
I normally charge a minimum fee of 30€. This minimum fee applies whenever the word count times the translation rate per word equals an amount less than 30€.
- What do you mean by discretion?
The rates listed in this price sheet provide general cost guidance. I may apply different rates based on the difficulty and complexity of each individual project.
- PC or Mac?
I work on a PC platform, and not with a MAC platform. If your source files are in MAC format, please call me to inquire about my ability to handle them.
- Do you require a contract?
Oral agreements may seem easy and informal, but they often lead to disputes. I rarely make you sign a contract but I will provide you with a clear and comprehensive estimate of the work you need, so you know exactly how much the service will cost, what is included and when it will be delivered.
I would also be happy to sign a purchase order in the name of your company if you prefer.
- Do you require a down payment?
Rarely. However, it depends on the amount of work, the deadline and if you are a new customer.
- How do I pay you?
I accept payment by wire transfers and French cheques (I know, it is so old fashioned). Please make sure you mention my invoice number on your wire transfer to facilitate the handling.
- What’s included in your fee?
I give full service, from start to finish, including such elements as research, phone calls, travel time, reports, surveys, interviews, organisation of files, reading background materials, meetings, investigating the competition, outlining, writing, editing, proofing, revisions etc. Of course, all of these will not apply to every project, but we will define your needs together and put them down in writing in the service offer.
- What if I don’t like the copy you submit?
I always welcome any comments you may have. Language is not an exact science and we all have preferences in the way we speak and write. In the event of disagreements about certain aspects of the translation I will correct these aspects in cooperation with you.
- What if I change my mind?
If I have not started researching on behalf of your order I will not charge you anything, because we can all change our minds. However if you have placed your order and cancellation takes place after the work has commenced, for whatever reason, I will charge for the work completed.
In some cases, if I had to decline offers from other clients because I accepted yours, I may also charge half of the price (fifty percent) for the uncompleted work. And I hope you will understand that.
- What kind of deadlines do you offer?
Depending on the volume of your text and taken into account other projects I am working on I can deliver immediately after you have placed your order and the translation is done, or a few weeks ahead for larger projects. Just ask and I will do my best to meet your deadlines. Late night work is not a secret for independent translators and I want you to be satisfied.
- What isn’t included in your fee?
I do not provide any extensive layout or design services as this is not my area of specialisation.
- Do you provide layout and design?
You will receive the final text with the same layout as you provided to me. I do not provide any extensive layout or design services as this is not my area of specialisation.
- Who owns the work you do for me?
Once my fees are paid, you have full ownership of all work I’ve done for you. I do retain the right to use those materials in my own promotional portfolio unless you have confidentially issues that would make such use detrimental to your business. Of course all such use on my website includes a link to your site.
