ISO 17100: 2015: Translation services - Requirements for translation services

ISO 17100 certification serves to raise the threshold of translation companies.

The standard sets -

• The requirements for the core process (translation) from the proposal stage through receipt of the order, to submission of the translated material to the customer includes validation of the translated material
• The minimum resources for fitness and knowledge of the service providers – translators, editors, etc. – include experience, education, and management of the process's infrastructures and equipment.
• Validation of the translation by a second party (not the translator)
• Emphasis on the interfaces between the customer and the service provide so that the final product will be as requested – response to the specifications and expectations
• Requirement to archive and save the materials used for the translation, obtaining feedback on the quality of the translation, and confidentiality

The aforesaid requirements are designed to produce the highest quality translation by the service provider, which is compatible to the needs of the customers. The standard replaces BS EN 15038: European quality standard for translation, which has been withdrawn.

ISO 17100 is applicable for organizations of every size and their customers. The standard does not apply to translation by automated software or tools.

The road to certification

Certification follows the successful implementation an organization's in-house quality management system pursuant to the requirements of the standard. To start this process, it is recommended to purchase the standard at the Standards Institution of Israel Information Center, study the requirements, and participate in appropriate training. It is also possible to consult with the quality management consultants and experts and undergo a preliminary audit by Standards Institution of Israel to check for shortcomings.

The process ought to be seen as an opportunity for improvement via the organization team which will receive management commitment and involvement. At the end of the process, independent Standards Institution of Israel auditors will perform an audit that confirms that the organization's quality management system is compatible to the specifications of the standard.