Prepare a stable source

Approve the original wording before translation and keep a glossary of names, technical terms and status labels. Identify phrases that require subject-matter review. Avoid changing figures or units silently to suit a layout. If a document is a translation, label the version and maintain a link to the source used. The team should be able to identify which original edition it reflects.

Review meaning and layout

Use a competent reviewer for the subject and language. Check tables, captions, contact details and embedded links as well as paragraphs. A translated headline can overstate a carefully qualified source if it is reviewed only for style. Keep a process for updating all language versions when the original changes. Do not leave an older translation in circulation with a current cover date that suggests it has been substantively refreshed.

Put the guide to work

Check the final exported file rather than approving only the translation document. Line breaks, font substitution and altered table widths can hide important qualifications or make figures difficult to read. Meaning needs to survive the final format in which the audience will encounter it.

Imagine this

Hypothetical example

A project status described as proposed is translated using language that suggests confirmed delivery. The bilingual reviewer catches the difference before publication. The team adds the term to its glossary and checks the same wording across the brochure and profile page.

Make it practical.

Use this checklist as you read. Checks are not stored.

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