What are the essential skills and competencies for a technical translator in a multilingual CMS environment?

1 CMS basics

A CMS is a software application that allows users to create, edit, manage, and publish content on a website or a platform. A multilingual CMS is a CMS that supports multiple languages, either by allowing users to switch between languages, or by automatically translating content based on the user's preferences or location. A multilingual CMS can help organizations reach a wider audience, improve user experience, and comply with legal or ethical requirements. However, a multilingual CMS also poses some challenges for technical translators, such as maintaining consistency, quality, and accuracy across languages and formats.

2 Translation tools

A technical translator in a multilingual CMS environment needs to be proficient in using various translation tools, such as translation memory (TM), terminology management (TM), computer-assisted translation (CAT), and machine translation (MT). These tools can help the translator save time, reduce errors, and ensure consistency and coherence. However, the translator also needs to be aware of the limitations and risks of these tools, such as data security, quality control, and ethical issues. The translator should be able to evaluate the suitability and reliability of these tools for different types of content and contexts, and to apply them appropriately and effectively.

3 CMS integration

A technical translator in a multilingual CMS environment also needs to be able to integrate their translation tools and workflows with the CMS platform. This means that the translator should be familiar with the CMS features and functions, such as content types, templates, metadata, tags, categories, and workflows. The translator should also be able to access, import, export, and update content in the CMS, and to ensure that the translated content is compatible and compliant with the CMS standards and specifications. The translator should also be able to communicate and collaborate with other CMS users, such as content creators, editors, managers, and developers.

4 Content adaptation

A technical translator in a multilingual CMS environment should also be able to adapt the content to the target audience, culture, and context. This means that the translator should have a good understanding of the purpose, function, and tone of the content, and the expectations, needs, and preferences of the users. The translator should also be aware of the cultural and linguistic differences and nuances between the source and target languages, and how they may affect the meaning, style, and format of the content. The translator should also be able to apply the principles and techniques of localization, transcreation, and accessibility, to make the content more relevant, engaging, and user-friendly.

5 Technical skills

A technical translator in a multilingual CMS environment should also have some technical skills, such as basic HTML, CSS, XML, and JavaScript. These skills can help the translator deal with the code and markup elements that may be embedded in the content, and to ensure that they are translated correctly and consistently. These skills can also help the translator troubleshoot and fix any issues or errors that may arise during or after the translation process, such as broken links, formatting problems, or compatibility issues. These skills can also help the translator optimize the content for search engines, social media, and mobile devices.

6 Continuous learning

A technical translator in a multilingual CMS environment should also be committed to continuous learning and improvement. This means that the translator should keep up with the latest trends and developments in the field of technical translation, multilingual CMS, and related technologies. The translator should also seek feedback and evaluation from their clients, colleagues, and users, and use it to enhance their skills and competencies. The translator should also take advantage of the available resources and opportunities for professional development, such as courses, webinars, blogs, podcasts, networks, and associations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?