Moving Linguists to the Centre

Katrin DrescherLanguage Services & Translation Enablement

Copyright © 2014 Symantec Corporation2

Changed Globalization Landscape

Major Localization Projects

20 %

Constant flow of small updates to products, marketing and support content

Content needs to be correct and also engaging!

80 %

Copyright © 2014 Symantec Corporation3

As a Result …

• Product and Content Developers create global-ready source and deliver global products and content – Agile

• Translation Efficiency and Language Quality are now unique differentiator for Globalization

Develop Translate Deliver

Copyright © 2014 Symantec Corporation4

We need the Linguist at the CENTRE

Connected to Source Teams

Creative

ExpertEngaged

Connects with our regional partners

Content & Language OWNERSHIP

Managing a language network

Terminology & Voice

Tech-Savvy Quick

Copyright © 2014 Symantec Corporation5

And a Project Manager, who….

Does not interrupt the flow

Ensures suitable resourcing

Anticipates issues & advises on strategy

Emphasizes partnership

Copyright © 2014 Symantec Corporation6

Some Successes…and Challenges @ Symantec

Started language network group based on ground rules

Impressed by engagement and dedication of linguists

Peer to peer and cross-vendor conversations self-resolve issues much quicker

# Pool of hours reserved and billed

• Reporting discipline

• Participation of regional offices

Copyright © 2014 Symantec Corporation7

Top 10 Suggestions1. Make the Translator VISIBLE and HEARD – Develop them, include relationship skills…2. Report based on DATA– regular trends and challengesGreen isn’t necessarily good - Embrace RED! TRUST3. Be honest with customer about resource gaps and plans to close them

4. Look outside the traditional translator pool for resources – create small flexible networked groups of dedicated specialized experts who are available5. Engaged, capable and supportive peers who contribute trump error analysis

6. Be open to customers what they CAN or MUST do to help YOU deliver

7. Relieve PMs from micro-managing

8. Help customers strategize and plan ahead - RESOLVE CHALLENGES TOGETHER – e. g. barriers with formats and systems9. Reward and compensate individuals (timely, programmatically)

10. Negotiate on price – Capable, dedicated, available translators, free flow of translations save customers time and money. And don’t overuse translation vs. transcreation offer.