Breaking Language Barriers with Machine Translation & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
By American Language Services
In the past few years, remarkable technological breakthroughs in Machine translation (MT), which include Neural Machine Translation (NMT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), have occurred, particularly in the last six months. American Language Services has been a leader in pioneering the translation technology industry for four decades while translating into over 200 languages across several key sectors and industries.
While some translation agencies have been very slow in recognizing machine and AI translations because of their limited knowledge or discomfort, we are well aware of their tremendous advantages and certain limitations this brings our clients. We believe knowledge is power and do not fear technology; we embrace it. The impact of machine translation, computer-aided technology, and AI is felt across all business sectors, and the combination of MT and human translators has many practical and beneficial applications. The impact of these technologies is expected to increase over time.
By adopting these technologies early on, we have gained valuable insights into the many misconceptions and questions surrounding this relatively new area. In the following sections, we will delve into what machine translation and AI is, how it works, and why we are continuing to develop them. Additionally, we will highlight the benefits and merits of our proprietary systems.
We offer three different service levels for Machine Translations & AI:
The Increasing Demand for Machine Translation & AI
As borders become less important due to online shopping, distance messaging, and international workforces many organizations are expanding globally, leading to a surge in demand for instant and affordable translations to reach multilingual audiences. The W.P. Carey School of Business predicts the volume of global business data online will double every 1.2 years, surpassing the capabilities of the current network of human translation providers. To address this, machine translators and machine-aided systems such as those offered by Google and Trados are being used to enhance the translation process and meet the increasing trend.
While machine and AI translations may not be as accurate as human translations, many companies prioritize cost savings and speed by choosing to use these tools. Although not perfect, machine translations are often sufficient for understanding the general meaning of written content, making them useful for review purposes and communication.
Moreover, the market is trending towards a hybrid approach that combines machine translations with human editors. This approach is gaining popularity as it reduces costs, speeds up the translation process, and results in more accurate translations than machine-only methods. Using the benefits of both translation providers creates a budget-friendly output and increases the client’s satisfaction.
Below are several statistics emphasizing the increasing significance of machine translators in the global market:
- Global Market Insights predicts that the machine translation market will expand by nearly 20% by 2024.
- Machine translation accounts for over 20% of all content translated without human involvement.
- Machine translation can process more words per day than a professional translator can complete in a month.
What are Machine Translations?
Machine translations are a set of software tools that enable users to input content in one language and receive faster output in another. This process can take minutes instead of hours with human translators, as many of the most popular machine translators are 80-90% automated.
While speed and cost savings are essential considerations, the machine translation quality can suffer. Automated translation has issues with translating metaphors and content that relies heavily on emotion, leading to 70-80% estimated accuracy rates. However, as technology advances and neural networks become more widespread, errors are expected to decrease over time.
Popular machine translation tools include:
- Google Translate: A free and widely used online translation tool that supports over 100 languages
- Microsoft Translator: Another free online translation tool that supports over 60 languages
- Deepl Translator: A relatively new online translator that operates with deep learning technology to provide high-quality translations in several European languages.
- SDL Trados: A popular computer-assisted translation software used by professional translators.
- SYSTRAN: A machine translation software that supports over 130 languages and offers translation solutions for businesses and governments.
- Other tools include Yandex Translate, Amazon Translate, Ludwig, and Bing Translate.
AI Translations Explained
AI translation involves utilizing complex deep-learning algorithms to translate text automatically. By leveraging human intelligence in coordination with our existing TM behavior, as well as with previous translation models and outputs, the software is designed to comprehend and analyze source text, resulting in precise and rapid translations into one or multiple target languages.
The Different Approaches for Machine Translation
There are generally three types of machine translation: rule-based machine translation, statistical machine translation, and neural machine translation. These three types differ in their approach to translating text and the underlying technology they use to generate translations. Other machine translation types may also exist, but these three are the most recognize in the field.
- Rule-Based: Rule-Based Machine Translation (RBMT) systems are more labor-intensive than the other types of MT. These systems rely on algorithms preloaded with syntax, grammar, and phraseology rules for a specific language. Although RBMT ensures consistency, it requires significant manual effort. This type of MT is also known as first-generation MT and is gradually surpassed by the other machine translation types.
- Statistical: The emergence of big data has enabled the development of this type of MT. These tools can identify patterns between the reference and target texts by inputting large quantities of parallel texts into the system. Using these patterns, the system calculates the most appropriate translation. Statistical MT is faster than RBMT, but its accuracy heavily relies on the availability of reliable reference materials. Therefore, there may be better choices for users of less common languages.
- Neural: Machine learning-based MT systems are designed to imitate human learning and accumulate knowledge over time. The more these systems are used, the better they perform. By focusing on contextual understanding, they can more accurately choose the appropriate word from a pool of similar options. It is anticipated that these systems will make up a significant portion of the MT market in the future.
A Guideline for When to Use Machine &/OR AI Translation
| When to use human translation | When to use Machine translation & AI | |
| Does this content determine my success? | Content for branding, advertisement, and large audiences should be translated by a professional human translator. | Machine Translation might be an option in some cases. |
| Is the target audience vital? | It is advised to use human translators for brand-new markets or large customer segments. | If the audience does not mind typos or small errors, MT can be an option. |
| Can I utilize different electronic formats (PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, HTML, InDesign, Illustrator etc.) with MT? | Machine translations have some limitations in this capacity, which is one of its most significant drawbacks. Therefore, if different electronic formats are required, it is best to use a human translator. Especially, when the document requires formatting and Desktop Publishing (DTP). | Depending on the specific software files that are sent will determine the proper usage of the various options. |
| Is my content legal or medical in nature? | Professional human translators in their fields are the best option in order to avoid errors and mistakes that could lead to unwanted consequences. | Machine translation might be an acceptable alternative for limited usage |
| Does it have a large amount of content? | For human translators it is impossible to deliver a rapid translation for a large amount of content. | MT is a great option for a lot of content that needs to be translated quickly. However, it always depends on the type of content and the audience. |
| Is it simple content? | Human translators might not be necessary. | MT is a wonderful option for simple and general content. Policies & Procedures, Legal, Handbooks, Training Manuals, or compliance matters should not be translated by MT. |
Human Reviewer + MT = Excellence
Even if a project appears ideal for MT, it does not necessarily imply that humans should be entirely excluded. Typically, the optimal outcome is achieved when companies are willing to combine both methods. This simplifies the process and ensures that the algorithms do not make any errors. There are two primary methods for achieving this:
- The machine translator is highly involved in the MT translation process in the first method. The human translator reviews the produced content and checks for readability and completeness. This method is best suited for highly repetitive content.
- On the other hand, the second method has the human translator do most of the translation process. The MT is then used to double-check the copy for consistency and punctuation. This cuts down on proofing time—which is excellent when you consider that proofing doubles turnaround times but is only needed in four percent of jobs.
At American Language Services, we use all the available, most modern, and advanced techniques to ensure we provide our clients with the most comprehensive and best options to fit their specific needs.
About American Language Services
Since its founding in 1985, we have grown from a small boutique firm to a multi-location translation powerhouse. Our willingness to embrace new technologies—like machine, AI & Neural translations, certainly has helped. Our language experts provide a full range of language services in over 200 languages. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
AML-Global possesses some of the most impressive linguistic talents in the world. These highly skilled language professionals are recruited, screened, and tested to ensure high-quality work.
By paying meticulous attention to detail, AML-Global has earned an outstanding reputation for providing cost-effective, high-quality, and seamless language services.
Contact us by email at translation@alsglobal.net or via phone at 1-800-951-5020 for a free estimate.
