When getting booked for events, we’re often asked about translators and translation capabilities. We know exactly what these event organizers are looking for — interpreters and simultaneous interpretation solutions. To help clarify, we thought it would be interesting to explore the differences between interpretation and translation. The main difference, and point of confusion, comes from what’s actually being translated or interpreted and how it’s being done:
- Translation: Refers to deciphering the meaning of written words and translating them into another language
- Interpretation: Refers to the translation of spoken language which involves additional elements like tone, non-verbal cues, etc. that help convey meaning beyond the words used
As such, you hire translators when needing to get a document or website made available in a different language and you hire an interpreter for a live event. Interpretation is an in-the-moment service where the professional not only translates the words used into the desired language but the context, tone, delivery, and other important aspects that helpfully communicate what’s being said. We call this process simultaneous interpretation (SI) because it is so much more than the translation of words from one language to another, it’s the much more intensive translation and communication of meaning.
Remote-based or in-studio
Baldwin Audio/Visual Solutions can provide your event with the necessary setup for interpreters to perform their services either from a remote location or at our very own studio. For sign language interpretation, we can even customize where the interpreter is shown on-screen. If your event’s interpreter makes use of our simultaneous interpretation studio, they’ll have access to a private entrance, lounge and bathroom, interpretation booths outfitted with consoles that meet the latest ISO standards, as well as hand sanitizer and PPE — safety first!
Understanding is more than just words
There are highly communicative aspects of language that can become “lost in translation”. Maybe it’s a colloquial metaphor or analogy, maybe it’s the tone or delivery style of the speaker that’s used to underline an important takeaway. The point is that the meaning behind what a speaker is communicating is usually more than just the words they’ve chosen to speak, otherwise they would’ve just sent an email! If your event’s audience speaks different languages or has language accessibility needs, then you want to make sure their experience is just as refined and valuable.
Although interpreters and translators may share the same broad skills, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got the right service for your event. We can help set you up with interpretation technology that covers a variety of languages (including Indigenous languages and ASL/QSL). Baldwin Audio/Visual Solutions also offers unparalleled knowledge and expertise with years of in-person and virtual event experience — so contact us today!