Translation memory (TM) software differs from machine translation. Translation memory tools aid human translators, who remain responsible for the translation process. TM tools are designed to speed the translator's work by identifying repeated word strings, hiding code and text that should not be translated, and automating the non-translation parts of the job that can bog a translator down, and interfere with accuracy and consistency.

Projects that are especially good candidates for the use of translation memory include series of similar documents, as well as documents that will be revised in the future.

Translation memory tools such as SDXL, Trados and Déjà  Vu are used to create a database (called a corpus) with two columns: one for a text string in the source language, and the other for its equivalent in the target language. Each memory tool has unique advantages that may make it better suited to a particular job.

Before beginning a translation for a new client, the TM operator creates a database for the target language and imports any existing glossaries. The operator then pre-translates the document, which identifies repetition in the text so that passages will be translated consistently, and suggests some possible word choices, known as fuzzy matches.

The translator then translates the remaining file and corrects any errors. In addition, the translator has the original material on hand for clarity.

The completed document is then edited, proofed and exported to the target document in the format required by the client. It is then submitted to an additional round of quality assurance. Document processing time is typically about 25% of that required for a standard translation because TM automates much of the process.

Translation memory offers dramatic gains in accuracy and consistency. Just as important, a steep discount on reused text (in our case, 75%) means significantly lower costs.

The advantages do not stop there. We maintain the database, which becomes customer property. Any future changes to document can be incorporated immediately without resorting to the cost of an entirely new translation. As the corpus grows, so does the repetition within each document, so the client saves more time and money at each step of the process.