ISO 17100:2015 is an international standard that specifies requirements for all aspects of the translation process directly affecting the quality and delivery of translation services. It provides a framework for translation service providers (TSPs) to ensure they meet the needs of their clients with high-quality translations.

Key Aspects of ISO 17100:2015

1. Objective:
   • To ensure the provision of high-quality translation services that meet client and other applicable specifications.
2. Scope:
   • Applicable to all TSPs, including in-house translation teams, freelancers, and translation agencies.
3. Benefits:
   • Ensures consistent quality and reliability of translation services.
   • Enhances client satisfaction and trust.
   • Facilitates continuous improvement and professional development.
   • Provides a competitive edge by demonstrating adherence to an internationally recognized standard.

Requirements and Implementation

1. Human Resources:

• Qualifications and Competence: Translators must possess the required competencies, including formal education in translation or equivalent qualifications and experience.
• Professional Development: TSPs should encourage ongoing professional development for their translators to maintain and enhance their skills.

2. Pre-production Processes and Activities:

• Project Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of the client's requirements, including the purpose, target audience, and specific needs of the translation project.
• Feasibility: Assess the feasibility of the project in terms of resources, timeline, and technical requirements.

3. Production Process:

• Translation: The translation process should include a thorough understanding of the source text and its context, accurate rendering of meaning, and appropriate use of terminology.
• Review: Each translation must be reviewed by a second person (reviser) who is also a qualified translator. The review process ensures accuracy, consistency, and adherence to client specifications.
• Proofreading: Optional but recommended, proofreading involves a final check for any errors or inconsistencies before delivery.

4. Post-production Processes:

• Feedback and Revision: Implement a process for addressing client feedback and making necessary revisions.
• Final Verification: Ensure the final product meets all agreed-upon specifications and quality standards before delivery to the client.

5. Project Management:

• Project Planning: Develop a detailed project plan that outlines the scope, timeline, resources, and responsibilities.
• Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with the client throughout the project.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and implement strategies to mitigate them.

6. Client Relationship:

• Client Requirements: Clearly define and document client requirements at the start of the project.
• Client Feedback: Encourage and document client feedback to improve future projects.
• Confidentiality: Ensure the confidentiality and security of client information and documents.

7. Technical Resources:

• Translation Tools: Utilize appropriate translation tools and technologies, such as translation memory systems, terminology databases, and quality assurance tools.
• Data Security: Implement robust data security measures to protect client information and translation data.

Certification Process

1. Preparation:
   • Understand the requirements of ISO 17100:2015 and assess the current processes and practices of your organization.
2. Gap Analysis:
   • Conduct a gap analysis to identify areas that need improvement to meet the standard’s requirements.
3. Implementation:
   • Develop and implement procedures and practices that align with ISO 17100:2015. Ensure all staff are trained and aware of these procedures.
4. Internal Audit:
   • Conduct internal audits to verify the effectiveness of the implemented processes and identify any areas needing improvement.
5. Management Review:
   • Perform regular management reviews to assess the suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness of the translation service processes.
6. Certification Audit:
   • Engage an accredited certification body to perform an external audit. The audit will be conducted in two stages:
     • Stage 1: Review of documentation to ensure compliance with ISO 17100:2015.
     • Stage 2: On-site audit to verify the implementation of processes and procedures.
7. Certification Decision:
   • Based on the audit findings, the certification body will decide whether to grant ISO 17100:2015 certification.
8. Surveillance Audits:
   • Periodic surveillance audits are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with ISO 17100:2015.
9. Recertification:
   • The certification is typically valid for three years, after which a recertification audit is required.