Category: Industry Topics

Humans at the Core A Human-Centered Approach to HR
05/11/2024

Humans at the Core: A Human-Centered Approach to HR

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on Humans at the Core: A Human-Centered Approach to HR

It’s easy to get caught up in metrics, data, and strategic initiatives, but at Terra we always return to what truly matters—people. Every successful endeavor we’ve undertaken stems from our unwavering commitment to prioritize the human experience at the core of our operations. Our Chief People Officer, Natalia Quintás, encapsulates this philosophy perfectly. It’s all about “humans at the core,” and that approach defines how we manage people and build a thriving company culture. 

Prioritizing People in Decision-Making 

Every decision made at Terra is driven by the impact it will have on our most important assets, aka our team. “Our people are our most valuable asset,” Natalia said. While data is an essential tool, it’s not the be-all and end-all. Instead, it’s used to enrich the employee experience. “We leverage people analytics not just for data’s sake, but to genuinely understand and support our team,” she explained. By focusing on the human experience, Terra fosters an environment where employees feel engaged, motivated, and valued. Decisions are made with empathy and purpose, ensuring that the needs of the workforce come first. 

Human-Centered Leadership 

Leadership at Terra goes beyond merely making decisions—it’s about making decisions that enhance the well-being of our teams. “True leadership is about putting people first, understanding their needs, and empowering them to succeed,” Natalia noted. The leadership at Terra ensures that every team member is equipped with the tools they need to flourish and that their personal growth is prioritized. By nurturing a leadership model centered around people, we create an environment where collective well-being is emphasized, driving both individual and company success. 

Empathy and Connection 

In today’s digital-first world, maintaining strong human connections has become more challenging but is as vital as ever. Natalia underscored the importance of empathy: “We stay connected, we stay human. In every initiative, empathy drives our approach.” At Terra, empathy ensures that respect and trust remain the foundation of our relationships, allowing team members to collaborate openly and support one another. It’s through these genuine connections that we overcome challenges and build a stronger, more united company. 

Cultural and Emotional Awareness 

In a diverse, global workplace, understanding cultural and emotional nuances is key to building a cohesive team. Natalia highlights the importance of these soft skills, stating, “Emotional intelligence and cultural awareness are just as important as technical skills.” By valuing these skills, Terra creates a workplace where every employee feels respected and included. This respect fuels innovation and fosters a sense of belonging, ultimately strengthening teamwork and collaboration. 

Holistic Employee Support 

At Terra, supporting employees means taking a holistic approach that goes beyond their professional lives. “It’s not just about professional development; it’s about caring for the whole person—mentally, emotionally, and physically,” Natalia said. This approach helps build loyalty and resilience among employees, ensuring that they feel fully supported in all aspects of their lives, which in turn benefits the company as a whole. 

Building an Inclusive and Sustainable Environment 

Inclusivity and sustainability are pillars of Terra’s human-centered HR approach. “Our goal is to create a sustainable work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and belonging,” Natalia explained. When employees feel valued, they become more committed to the company’s success, contributing to a positive and productive workplace culture. This inclusive and sustainable approach is key to retaining top talent and maintaining a healthy work environment. 

Teamwork and Collaboration 

Teamwork is at the heart of Terra’s success. “Success is never a solo journey; it’s built on the strength of the team working together towards a common goal,” Natalia shared. Terra promotes teamwork and celebrates achievements, recognizing that it’s the collective hard work of the team that drives the company forward. “Celebrating our achievements honors our collective hard work and dedication,” she added. This acknowledgment of team efforts strengthens bonds and motivates everyone to strive for continuous success. 

Continuous Improvement 

Terra’s commitment to keeping humans at the core doesn’t stop at the current processes. “Staying human means continuously improving how we engage with and support our people,” Natalia noted. By focusing on ongoing improvement, Terra ensures that its HR practices evolve with the changing needs of the workforce, always keeping the human element central to every decision. 

The Takeaway 

At Terra, our “humans at the core” philosophy ensures that people are the most important aspect of every decision we make. Leadership, empathy, and continuous improvement are the cornerstones of this approach. As the world continues to evolve, Terra remains committed to supporting the growth and well-being of every team member, fostering a culture where all can thrive both professionally and personally. 

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Sustainability in the Translation Industry 
24/10/2024

Sustainability in the Translation Industry 

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on Sustainability in the Translation Industry 

In recent years, “sustainability” evolved from being a trendy buzzword to a fundamental necessity for businesses in every sector. This shift is driven by growing environmental challenges and changing consumer expectations, as people increasingly prioritize eco-conscious practices. The translation industry, like many others, is beginning to recognize that adopting sustainable practices is not just an option but a responsibility.  

As organizations look for ways to reduce their environmental impact, sustainable strategies are becoming integral to long-term success. 

Understanding Sustainability in Translation 

Sustainability refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. It’s a concept often associated with environmental preservation, but it also encompasses economic and social responsibility. In practice, sustainability is about making conscious decisions that benefit not only businesses but the planet as well. 

For companies in the translation industry (as well as other major industries like pharmaceuticals), adopting sustainability involves making operational changes to reduce carbon footprints and conserve resources.  

  • Embrace remote work. By allowing employees to work from home, translation companies can significantly reduce the environmental impact caused by daily commuting. In fact, a remote workforce also minimizes the need for large office spaces, which can contribute to lower energy consumption. 
  • Reduce paper usage. Translation companies can transition to fully digital operations by using email, online portals, and cloud-based platforms for all communications and document sharing. Not only does this streamline the translation process, but it also cuts down on paper waste and the energy involved in physical mail handling. 
  • Use cloud-based tools. With these tools, teams can collaborate across borders without the need for travel. The ability to store, access, and work on documents simultaneously through the cloud reduces the need for physical meetings, saving both time and energy while limiting carbon emissions.  
  • Find the right partners. Translation companies should also seek out technology providers actively pursuing environmentally friendly practices. This helps ensure that the entire workflow remains as eco-conscious as possible. By partnering with eco-friendly suppliers, translation companies can reinforce their commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s choosing green-certified office supplies or engaging with vendors who prioritize eco-conscious production, each step contributes to an overall sustainable business model. 

Despite these efforts, the translation industry faces specific challenges in sustainability. For instance, document analysis, linguistic adaptation, and machine translation all require considerable energy. Each step in this process can leave an environmental footprint. To address these challenges, companies can look for ways to optimize their processes to minimize energy consumption while still maintaining high-quality services. 

Terra’s Commitment to Sustainability 

At Terra, we have been committed to sustainability since our inception. From the beginning, we’ve operated 100% remotely, which has contributed to significant reductions in carbon emissions. By eliminating the need for a physical office, we’ve minimized energy consumption and created a more flexible, eco-friendly workspace. 

Our paperless operations further support our sustainability goals. All translations are delivered digitally via email or secure portals, reducing waste and helping us maintain a sustainable workflow. While a small number of our team members may travel occasionally for conferences or business meetings, we are mindful of the environmental impact of these activities. To offset the carbon footprint from travel, we’ve engaged in initiatives like forestation, which helps balance the emissions generated by these necessary activities. 

Through our Terra Cares program, we are also supporting initiatives like Sustentabilidad sin Fronteras by providing pro bono translation services. This allows important environmental materials to reach multilingual audiences, reinforcing our dedication to both sustainability and social responsibility. 

Looking Forward 

At Terra, sustainability has always been a guiding principle. As the need for environmental responsibility becomes more pressing across all sectors, we believe that the translation industry should lead by example. By embracing sustainable practices and encouraging others to do the same, we can create a better world and leave a lasting, positive impact on both our industry and the environment. 

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Effective Multilingual Communication Through Cultural Sensitivity
16/10/2024

Effective Multilingual Communication Through Cultural Sensitivity

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on Effective Multilingual Communication Through Cultural Sensitivity

In an increasingly globalized world, effective communication across cultures is more important than ever. Cultural understanding and cultural sensitivity are key components of successful multilingual communication. Cultural understanding involves recognizing and respecting the beliefs, values, and customs of different cultural groups. Cultural sensitivity refers to the awareness and consideration of cultural differences to avoid misunderstandings and offense. Together, these concepts help bridge communication gaps and build meaningful relationships across diverse audiences. Let’s take a look at how you can achieve effective multilingual communication through cultural sensitivity.  

The Depth of Cultural Language 

Cultural language goes beyond mere vocabulary. It encompasses metaphors, clichés, idiomatic expressions, and local humor—elements that can be deeply embedded in a culture’s way of communicating. For example, a phrase that resonates in one culture might be confusing or even offensive in another. Consider how different cultures use metaphors and idiomatic expressions to convey meaning uniquely. Understanding these subtleties is crucial for accurate and respectful communication. 

Native cultural experts play an essential role in this process. They ensure that translations not only preserve the intended meaning but also resonate with the local audience. Their insights help avoid misinterpretations and ensure that messages are both effective and culturally appropriate. 

Steps to Master Cultural Language in Communications 

Not sure where to start in your quest to better navigate cultural language in your company’s employee communications? Consider taking these steps.  

Work Closely with Local Experts and Language Consulting Partners 

Collaborating with local experts and language consultants is vital. Their insights into cultural and linguistic nuances help your team navigate potential pitfalls and avoid misunderstandings. This partnership ensures that communications are tailored to the cultural context, enhancing effectiveness and reducing the risk of cultural faux pas. 

Seek Cultural Consultation 

Native cultural experts possess an in-depth understanding of their culture’s linguistic and cultural nuances. They can provide guidance on how to communicate sensitively and effectively. Their expertise will help ensure that your messages are both clear and respectful. 

Adapt Communication Styles

Different cultures have varying preferences for communication styles. Some value directness and clarity, while others prefer more indirect or nuanced language. Adjusting your communication style to align with the cultural preferences of your audience fosters better understanding and connection. 

Respect Cultural Symbols and Icons 

Be mindful of cultural symbols, icons, and imagery. Ensure that any visuals or symbols used in your communication are appropriate and respectful. Misusing or misrepresenting cultural symbols can lead to unintended offense. 

Be Mindful and Avoid Stereotypes 

Avoid stereotypes and generalizations when communicating with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Strive to use inclusive and non-discriminatory language, respecting each culture’s unique context. This approach promotes genuine interactions and fosters positive relationships. 

Real Life Example with Nike 

Nike’s ad campaign during the Beijing Olympics is a prime example of effective cultural communication. The company focused on themes of perseverance and national pride, aligning their messaging with Chinese cultural values. By working with local experts, Nike tailored their campaign to resonate deeply with the local audience, resulting in significant success and a strong connection with Chinese consumers. 

Ensuring Cultural Relevance 

To ensure cultural subtleties are understood, ask your language consulting partner some key questions. It can help to inquire about local sensitivities and successful communication strategies when addressing diverse audiences. Acknowledge and respect cultural differences to build genuine relationships, and be aware of local holidays and significant events to strengthen your connection with the community. 

The Takeaway  

As the world becomes more interconnected, the importance of cultural sensitivity in multilingual communication continues to grow. Prioritizing cultural understanding helps businesses build trust and expand their global reach. By embracing these practices, organizations can navigate cultural complexities and foster meaningful, authentic connections across diverse audiences. 

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The Craft of Translation A Legacy to Protect
30/09/2024

The Craft of Translation: A Legacy to Protect   

Posted on | by Terra Translations | Leave a Comment on The Craft of Translation: A Legacy to Protect   

A Timely Theme 

This year, the International Federation of Translators (FIT) has selected “Translation, an art worth protecting” as the theme for its celebration of International Translation Day. This theme recognizes that, while translation is sometimes viewed as a straightforward process of conversion, at its heart, it is far more than a mere act of swapping words from one language into another; it’s an intricate art worth protecting. As the development of AI and the expansion of the digital sphere continue to reshape the world as we know it, the FIT calls on all of us to protect this unique art. 

The Craftsmanship of Translation 

Just as a crafty wizard combines ingredients to create a powerful potion, a skillful translator weaves words together to form a new text that captures the essence of the original and is infused with what made it so special. 

Consider the challenge of translating poetry or literature, for example. The translator will want to preserve the rhythm, tone and emotion of the original work, all while making it accessible and meaningful in another language. This requires the ability to not only do linguistic gymnastics but also walk the tightrope between two cultures and know how to invite the reader into this other world. Clearly, with so many elements to juggle, the translator is doing much more than an apples-to-apples equation.   

The Importance of Protecting Translation 

In much the way that spending time in nature helps us develop an understanding and appreciation for it, spending a moment reflecting on translation can bring the vital role it plays in our world into sharper view. 

 Here are some of the many reasons translation is an art worth protecting: 

  • Cultural Preservation: Translation safeguards the richness of unique cultures around the world. It keeps the magic of storytelling alive and facilitates cultural exchange and mutual understanding. 
  • Global Communication: In today’s interconnected world, translation allows for the global exchange of ideas, and it plays a key role in uniting nations and fostering peace, understanding and development. 
  • Access to Information: Translation ensures that information is accessible to people of all linguistic backgrounds, thereby leveling the playing field and promoting inclusion. 
  • Historical Record: Many ancient texts have survived only through translation. Protecting this vital craft ensures that future generations can access these records and the wisdom and experiences of the past. 
  • Creativity and Expression: Translators are artists who create works that stand alone while honoring the original. By protecting translation, we can ensure that new interpretations of existing texts can reach and delight readers and expand their horizons. 

Let the Celebration Begin 

On this special day, we encourage you to take note of all the ways translation contributes to your understanding and enjoyment of our world. Have you read a translated novel? Discovered a new favorite show thanks to subtitles? Heard first-hand accounts in international news segments? Whatever it is, know that a dedicated translator is behind it, practicing their craft to connect us as members of a global community.     

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The Role of Cybersecurity in HIPAA-Compliant Translation Services
21/05/2024

The Role of Cybersecurity in HIPAA-Compliant Translation Services

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on The Role of Cybersecurity in HIPAA-Compliant Translation Services

As healthcare cyberattacks surge, cybersecurity is paramount. A 60% year-over-year rise, affecting over 40 million individual patients’ data in 2023, highlights the growing complexity and harm. Robust cybersecurity is crucial to protect individuals from evolving threats and safeguard the integrity of sensitive health information. 

Let’s take a closer look at the role of cybersecurity in HIPAA-compliant translation services.  

Building a Strong Defense  

Terra is a language service provider (LSP) that handles the translation of very sensitive information, as such, we understand that cybersecurity is imperative. These are some of the measures we have in place to build a strong defense:  

  • Proper monitoring. All electronic devices owned by Terra are monitored through Microsoft Azure tools, which detect potential threats. Our translation management system tracks all log activities for projects, generating a distinct timestamped record on projects with ePHI. 
  • Secure on-premises servers. We have our own secure on-premises server in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which ensures that the data stays within our safe environments. This also gives us more control over information management in real-time and on demand. 
  • Unique logins. Everyone with access to ePHI has a unique login and strong password—which is frequently updated for additional security.  
  • Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. Terra utilizes this program to ensure security through MFA for all Active Directory users.  

An Ongoing Commitment to Improving Cybersecurity  

There are some other steps the Terra team takes to continue to improve our cybersecurity efforts: 

  • Continuous risk assessment. Terra executes risk assessments on a yearly basis under the most stringent guidelines and practices to preserve the security of all private information entrusted to us. During this assessment, our processes are audited by an external consultant specialized in HIPAA compliance and IT security. Their recommendations are then implemented so our processes, protocols and software comply with the latest regulations and stay at the cutting edge in terms of cybersecurity. 
  • Security protocols. Our routers actively track and log all attempted security breaches. We conduct regular evaluations to detect any unusual behavior in our processes. 
  • Data protection measures. Our IT department explores new advanced technologies to strengthen security and implement robust backup and recovery plans for ePHI integrity during emergencies or system failures. 
  • Fostering a culture of compliance. Our team regularly trains to uphold our commitment to safeguarding sensitive information. Continuous collaboration with the IT department and our Privacy Officer allows each team member to play a vital role in compliance. 

Cybersecurity beyond healthcare 

Terra places the highest importance on maintaining robust cybersecurity measures and not just because of HIPAA compliance. In the language services industry, all sorts of confidential and sensitive information are handled in a digital format that is usually shared electronically.  

“In the healthcare field, it could be a medical record that would really hurt people if it were made public. But at the same time, in our other verticals, we handle court statements, sometimes from extremely dramatic situations, that no one would want to see disclosed. In other sectors, the damage can be just economic, but it can be huge and disrupt industries,” Dr. Matías Giannoni, Ph.D. and Privacy Officer at Terra explained.  

The takeaway 

The imperative role of cybersecurity in ensuring HIPAA compliance cannot be overstated for LSPs. As technology bridges geographical gaps and facilitates the global exchange of information, the responsibility to safeguard sensitive patient data becomes paramount. Terra’s Privacy Officer, in conjunction with our vigilant IT Department, plays a pivotal role in fortifying cybersecurity measures not just as a regulatory requirement but as a fundamental pillar in safeguarding privacy, maintaining confidentiality, and preventing potential harm to the different industries we work with. 

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The Importance of Language Access in the Manufacturing Industry
07/05/2024

The Importance of Language Access in the Manufacturing Industry

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on The Importance of Language Access in the Manufacturing Industry

Effective communication is the backbone of success in the manufacturing industry. It ensures not only the safety of the workers but also compliance with regulations and overall operational efficiency. However, for companies dealing with a diverse workforce that includes individuals with Limited English Proficiency, language barriers can become a significant roadblock. Let’s discuss the importance of language access in manufacturing and explore practical strategies to overcome these hurdles. 

Understanding the Key Role of Language Access 

These are some of the main considerations you should keep top of mind when it comes to language access in the manufacturing industry: 

  • Safety first: On the factory floor, where precision and caution are paramount, language barriers can translate into safety hazards. When workers struggle to comprehend safety instructions or warnings due to language differences, the risk of accidents and injuries significantly increases. Implementing language access measures becomes a crucial step in mitigating these potential dangers. 
  • Efficiency and quality boost: Effective communication—facilitated by translation services—is the key to enhancing efficiency in manufacturing processes. When workers can understand instructions clearly, they are more likely to perform tasks accurately and efficiently. This not only contributes to increased productivity but also elevates the overall quality of the manufacturing process by reducing errors and defects in the final products. 
  • Cost-effectiveness: While some may perceive translation services as an additional expense, they can be a wise investment in the long run. By preventing costly mistakes and accidents, these services contribute to improved overall efficiency. Furthermore, addressing language barriers can reduce onboarding time and costs, a significant benefit in industries where training is complex and time-consuming. 
  • Employee engagement and retention: Language access initiatives go beyond operational benefits; they also play a crucial role in employee engagement and retention. When workers feel understood and included, their morale and engagement levels increase. This, in turn, fosters a positive work environment and enhances the likelihood of retaining skilled personnel in the organization. 
  • Compliance matters: In the manufacturing sector, staying compliant with regulations, especially those set by organizations like OSHA, is non-negotiable. Providing training in employees’ native languages is not just a good practice but a regulatory necessity, ensuring that your company aligns with the required safety standards. 

How to Boost Language Access in Manufacturing 

To help improve language access in manufacturing, consider taking these steps: 

  • Implement translation services: Utilize translation services to assist workers in understanding critical documents and instructions, including safety guidelines, operating manuals, and employee handbooks. This ensures that information is accessible to all employees, regardless of their language proficiency. 
  • Offer multilingual resources: Make the work environment more accessible by providing multilingual resources and tools such as visual aids, bilingual signage, and language-friendly navigation systems. This promotes effective communication and ensures that everyone can move around the workspace safely. 
  • Provide native language training: Conduct training sessions in the native languages of your employees to guarantee comprehension. Translate manuals, eLearning courses, and add subtitles to training videos. This commitment to language access will reinforce safety protocols and proper equipment usage. 

The Takeaway 

Providing language support services is not just a luxury but a necessity in the manufacturing sector. By addressing communication challenges through translation services and other language access initiatives, companies can foster improved collaboration, increased efficiency, and a safer working environment for all.  

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How to Compare Services From Different Translation Vendors
09/04/2024

How to Compare Services From Different Translation Vendors

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on How to Compare Services From Different Translation Vendors

At first glance, when comparing service providers, it may be tempting to go with the least expensive option. When it comes to choosing a translation service provider, this can often be the wrong move to make. Why? If you receive a quote for translation services that is way cheaper than that of a different provider, then something is likely off. Either they are not quoting the exact same services (translation workflows are usually unique to each client) or the people who will be working on the project aren’t as qualified and trained as you need them to be. Oftentimes the linguist doing the job is still in training, is not certified, or is not specialized in the field.

When you choose the cheapest option, there’s a high chance that the deliverables you receive won’t match what you thought you were buying. As the saying goes—you get what you pay for.

That’s not to say you have to go with the most expensive option to get the best quality, which is why it’s so important to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. If two different vendors give you a different rate for the same language combination, you need to make sure you’re being offered the same product and only then can you benefit from going with the least expensive option.

These are some factors worth keeping in mind when comparing different translation service providers—especially if you anticipate having ongoing translation needs. Because that means the selected provider may become a long-term partner.

Communication

When getting to know different translation providers, pay attention to how your communication flows with them and what channels they use to communicate with you and your team.

Technology

You should also take note of what technology the vendor will use to work on your projects. A solid Translation Management System (TMS) and computer assisted translation tools (CAT tool) that allow for good terminology management and QA checks is a must-have.

Experience

Ask each localization provider to walk you through their work experience. Does the vendor have case studies or references they can share with you? Success stories and testimonials can also tell you a lot about the company. Experience is really important here, as one company might use non-professional translators or use very low-paying translators that don’t produce the best quality work, nor have resources in-house to check the quality of the work or use the right technology. That may explain why their prices are so low, so be very weary of vendors that offer inexpensive rates.

Workflow

What workflow does the language provider use to manage projects in a seamless fashion and what integrations do they offer to work with your company? Make sure they align with how you and your team like to work.

Project management

You want to work with a good project manager to make sure the process runs smoothly from start to finish. See if you can find out what the level of expertise the project management team that will be working on your projects has. You can also find out what time zones they are based in to make sure you can align timing wise and can facilitate ongoing dynamic interactions. It can be helpful to meet with the project manager, project management team, or translation team beforehand via a phone call or video call to help make sure you’re all on the same page about project needs and workflow.

Quality control

What quality control measures does the vendor have? Are they certified by international quality standards like ISO 9001 and 17100? Do they work with in-house reviewers and quality control specialists? These are important questions to ask to learn more about the quality control that a vendor offers.

Reputation

You want to work with a translation company that has a good reputation in the industry and amongst translators. You can look for feedback about the company in social media and online forums to make sure they are a trustworthy vendor.

Company culture

Does the company culture of the provider align with your team’s culture? When you share the same values, the provider feels like an extension of your own team.

The Takeaway

As tempting as it may be to choose the most affordable translation vendor so you can stretch your budget as far as possible, it’s important to compare the services and the experience backing those services before you make a final decision.

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How Does Terra Handle Translation Projects Containing ePHI
02/04/2024

How Does Terra Handle Translation Projects Containing ePHI?

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on How Does Terra Handle Translation Projects Containing ePHI?

We believe that every person, regardless of their background or native language, has the right to comprehend their medical information, which may require translation services.  

When it comes to the handling of electronically Protected Health Information, the utmost care must be taken in order to adhere to HIPAA regulations regarding privacy and security measures. Here’s how the Terra team handles translation projects containing ePHI. 

First Things First 

Before kicking off a translation project containing ePHI, we typically have a call with the client to better understand their needs, expectations, and special considerations. If they have concerns about cybersecurity measures or want to learn more about the HIPAA-compliant team that will handle their projects, we will walk them through our training program and introduce them to the strong culture of compliance we promote. 

Receiving a Project 

Once everyone is on the same page and the client is ready to send their first project, they usually do it through a secure file transfer platform (of their preference) where they upload the files containing ePHI that require translation. Our team also receives an email from the client where the details of this project are included, such as language pair, word count, and deadline. 

Assigning the Project 

Next, we move on to assigning the project to a Terra account manager (AM) trained in HIPAA compliance. The AM opens the assignment email, analyzes the request, and downloads the files that need translation from the client’s platform to their encrypted devices. From there, they upload them to Terra’s secure storage platform. Then, the AM shares the project details with a project manager (PM) who is in charge of uploading the project to a secure translation tool, including only the vital instructions and information the translator needs to perform their job, and assigns it to a linguist selected from a list of already approved vendors.  

The linguists working on these projects are both experts in the healthcare field and are also trained in HIPAA compliance. To test their knowledge, they must pass an internal test to demonstrate their ability to properly handle the documents with the utmost care.

Translating & Editing 

When we’re ready to move on to the translating and editing stage, our trusted HIPAA-compliant linguist receives a notification about the assigned project and proceeds to translate it within the secure translation tool. The access this translator has to the project files is controlled, limited to view-only, and removed once the project is completed. 

Every person involved in the process has unique and non-transferable credentials. This helps us track everything and keep a record of the management of the project.

After the translation is performed, the next step is editing and an editor reviews the final version, making sure there are no spelling, grammar, or formatting errors.  

While the use of a CAT tool during the translation process supposes the use of a translation memory (TM) as well, our team has an established process to make sure that segments containing ePHI are not stored in the project TM

Final Delivery 

After editing steps are finalized, the project is ready and the PM in charge delivers the files to the client through the client’s secure platform. The final files are uploaded to our own secure storage platform for a set period of time in case they are needed in the near future, and after that period is over, the files are deleted.  

The Takeaway 

Terra ensures a secure and compliant ePHI translation process, prioritizing confidentiality and integrity. Clients can trust their sensitive healthcare information is safe thanks to Terra’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in handling electronically Protected Health Information. 

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06/02/2024

Why Demos & Training Sessions with Your Localization Team Matter

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on Why Demos & Training Sessions with Your Localization Team Matter

It’s easy to think that if you need something translated, the first thing you should do is find a translation vendor and simply send them your materials to translate. More often than not, it’s not as simple as that, as there are many aspects that need to be evaluated before the kickoff if you want to properly execute a translation project. For example, an employee handbook about company policies will have very different translation needs than a mobile app or video game.  The complexity of translation projects can vary widely and if what you’re really expecting back is a quality translation that is not only accurate but also effective, then just handing over materials for a translation won’t do the trick.  

The truth is that a lot of thinking and knowledge went into creating your product or materials. To get to the final product you have today, a lot of time and hard work was put into it, and only the people that worked on it and developed this product know all its specificities.  

There are ways you can help your localization team get to know your products. Let’s talk through why you should consider doing demos and training sessions with your localization team.  

Understand Product Functionalities and Specifics 

To start the localization process on the right foot, it’s crucial for the localization team to understand the product’s functionalities and specifics. This is why aside from having a detailed style guide and product description or other specs document, it’s a good idea to have a demo of the product with some training for the localization team. That way, project managers and linguists understand the product and are able to see it “in action”. 

Let’s look at video games as an example. If you can, it’s a good idea to give translators access to the video game or to a beta version of the game so they can familiarize themselves with the mechanics of the game and see the product from the gamer’s perspective. In the case of mobile apps, it’s important for the translators to see what the app does and what the UI and UX look like. When working on its translation, translators may only see loose strings of text with little to no context. If you can give them access to play around in the app or video game, they will be better equipped to provide accurate translations.  

If you cannot grant direct access to the product, you can conduct a training session where you can showcase the different functionalities. This is a great opportunity for people involved in the project to get familiarized with the ins and outs of the product and ask questions about it.  

Consider the Length of Project 

The other reason it can be a very good idea to familiarize your localization team with your products through demos and training sessions is so they are more prepared to assist you with translation needs on an ongoing basis. These types of projects are usually ongoing, as video games and apps usually have regular updates. If you already know that continuous localization will be needed, then you can greatly benefit from working with a team that knows your product as well as you do.  

Another timeline concern to keep in mind is that it is highly advisable that you accommodate for demos and training sessions in the timeline of a localization project as it can really make a difference in the result and take your localization to success. 

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How to Provide Fair Career Advancement Opportunities to Your Global Workforce
02/01/2024

How to Provide Fair Career Advancement Opportunities to Your Global Workforce

Posted on | by Jacqueline De Marco | Leave a Comment on How to Provide Fair Career Advancement Opportunities to Your Global Workforce

As companies across the world continue to embrace a global presence, it’s critical for employers to ensure that their employees have access to all the career advancement opportunities they need, regardless of where they are located. Implementing a fair system for providing these advances is important not only in recognizing and rewarding employee achievements but also by tapping into their workforce diversity of knowledge and cultural experience.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits and challenges of providing training to a multiculturally diverse workforce in an effort to provide equitable career advancement opportunities to international staff members.

Benefits of training & development

Investing in employee training and development programs can provide numerous benefits for a company with a global workforce.

  • Enhanced leadership training. With the right training, employees can gain valuable leadership skills and knowledge of how businesses operate from top-level managers and executives. Companies often have dedicated team-building sessions or management workshops that help employees cultivate their leadership potential and understand the nuances of management roles within the organization.
  • More career advancement opportunities. Training and development programs can also help to build a competent and skilled workforce, which is essential in today’s global market. By providing employees with new job-related skills, they can acquire the necessary knowledge to remain competitive in their fields. This can help a company stay ahead of its competitors and remain relevant in the market.
  • Improved performance and productivity. By providing employees with the necessary skills and knowledge, they can perform their job more effectively, leading to increased productivity and efficiency. This results in better overall performance and can lead to higher profit margins for the company.
  • Increased employee engagement and job satisfaction. When an employer invests in their employees’ professional growth, it shows that the company values them and that their contributions to the organization are significant. This can, in turn, lead to increased job satisfaction and improved employee retention.
  • New skill building opportunities. As technology becomes increasingly important in business operations, having tech-savvy employees is essential for companies seeking competitive advantage through digital transformation initiatives. Companies should focus on providing specialized courses that teach topics such as data analysis, cybersecurity protocols, software development methods, and machine learning concepts—all areas are necessary for staying ahead of digital trends in today’s economy.

The language barrier

In the case of global companies, most training is provided in English because it’s assumed that most employees speak that language. However, when it comes to learning new concepts or skills, it’s not the same to have training provided in your mother tongue than in English, even if employees can communicate in English for business purposes.

Studies show that employees incorporate knowledge better when the training is in their native language. Providing training only in English puts non-English speakers at a disadvantage; it ultimately makes them feel incapable and that they will be passed over for promotions by native English speakers. Unless training is provided in their mother tongue, we can’t talk about equal advancement opportunities for everyone.

Conclusion

Diversity and inclusion are top of mind for many businesses nowadays. One way to make sure companies are being inclusive with all their employees is by thoroughly assessing the training opportunities that they are providing and making sure all employees have a fair shot to grow and reach leadership positions, regardless of their background. In the end, diversity and inclusion initiatives are not only aimed at having more diverse staff but also having diversity at the top.

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