Our Quality Assurance process is implemented by the QA Manager through our internally developed Quality Cross-Check platform (QCC) according to the quality plan set up by the PM at the project preparation phase.
QCC aims at checking the linguistic quality of the translation at early stages, at detecting any errors in the final output of the translation process before delivery and at the same time creating quality records for each linguist involved in the project.
QCC reporting may be performed several times for each file.
The evaluation of the translation is performed according to the LISA QA Model and it is based on the following criteria:
- Accuracy/completeness: Cross References, Omissions, Additions, Incorrect meaning, Un-translated text
- Language error: Spelling, Grammar, Syntax, Punctuation, Typo
- Terminology: Industry - Standard – Project Terminology, Inconsistency, Glossary
- Register/Clarity: General Style, Style Guide
- Compliance: Non-compliance with reference docs/instructions, QCC/ Feedback
- Functional: Format, Hidden Text, Tags, Links, Technical Procedures, Spacing
- Regional: Country Standards, Local Market Suitability
Each error is classified into the relevant category and is characterised as minor, major, critical or preferential, depending on its severity.
The evaluation results are entered into the relevant QCC report form, which is then communicated to the team members with instructions.
The combination of number of errors and their severity produces the mark of each translation. Translations that receive a score higher than 90 out of 100 points are considered as successful and receive a Pass mark, which means they are ready to be delivered to the client.
The Pass score may change according to client and project demands. For instance for European Commission projects, the required Pass score is at least 90-95%.
Minor corrections are then implemented, if necessary, and the file is forwarded to the PM for delivery to the customer.
Translations with a lower score than 90 out of 100 points are marked as “Failed” and corrective measures are taken:
- The file is sent back to the translator/reviser for implementing corrections. The QCC process is carried out once again on the corrected translation.
- The whole or part of the file is re-translated, if needed – usually in very rare cases. The QCC is re-implemented before delivery.
Unacceptable quality may result to exclusion of the specific translator from the translation team.
