FAQ

What are your rates for translation?

Our minimum rate is $ 0,28 (28 cents) per word. This is for general texts that do not require specialized research or terminology development. Estimates can be prepared for any kind of texts.

What are your rates for the other services?

Copy writing, précis writing, terminological research, editing, proofreading. These are invoiced at a minimum rate of $ 82,50 an hour.

Do you have special rates for larger projects?

Rebates can apply for more extensive projects.

How do you establish the word count?

The word count is established by the software Word and is based on the source document.

Can you produce texts with the same number of words as the source texts?

In many instances such as solicitation materials for fundraising, exhibitions panels or websites pages, the word count has to be the same or very close in both languages. French always has more words than English but if this is the wish of the client, we will aim to be as close as possible to the word count of the source text. This may require that the client accept an adaptation more than a mere translation.

What is your working process?

Translation

We receive the text by email or drop-box. Once an agreement has been reached concerning the rate and deadline, we first review the text to get to know the topic and identify any specific challenges. Then the text is translated: first version. If necessary, we will be in touch with the client to clarify any questions that may arise. The text is revised: final version.

Writing

We talk with or meet with the client to establish the objectives and identify the deadline. We receive, review and study any background material. We get back to the client with a proposal on cost and deadline. Once we agree on the terms, we write the text. If necessary, we will be in touch with the client to clarify any questions that may arise. The text is reviewed by a second expert before being delivered to the client. Upon receiving comments from the client we will do minor revisions or come to an agreement with the client for any additional steps if needed.

What is précis writing?

Précis writing is the art of reducing the amount of words in a text. This proved to be very useful in many situations where a text must be limited to a specific number of words or length. Précis writing is achieved through a number of techniques to express ideas using as few words as possible.

Can you provide a quote?

Yes, if the client wishes, the text can be sent to us to receive a quote. This service is free.

Do you use “machine” or software translation?

We use electronic tools for layout, research, reviewing, as translation and terminology memory, etc. Our texts are finalized in the traditional way.

What softwares do you use?

We normally translate in Word format. If the client requires us to perform the work in another format, we will consider it and we may have to adjust the rate.

What specialized tools do you use?

In addition to the tools integrated in the softwares, we mostly use online dictionaries and databases.

Termium, the Canadian government terminology database http://www.termiumplus.gc.ca

The data base of the Office québécois de la langue française http://www.oqlf.gouv.qc.ca

The online Oxford English-French dictionary.

What is your turnaround time?

This depends on the volume of work at a specific time but we can normally produce short texts of up to 2000 to 3000 words in one day. For longer texts and those requiring more research or terminology development, a timetable can be discussed.

Can you do very small translations in a very short turnaround time?

Yes and we do so on a regular basis for our regular clients. These are invoiced according to time spent, at our hourly rate. Sometimes these are complimentary if they are really “minute translations”! But very short deadlines may require a rush rate.

What is you contracting process?

Most of the contracting is done in the form of an agreement by email. For larger projects, we may require the signing of a more formal contract. We accept PO’s from organizations and companies.

What is your payment policy? Do you require a deposit?

We do not normally require a deposit for clients with whom we have an established working relationship and for well-known corporations or government organizations issuing a PO. For new clients, we may require a deposit for orders exceeding a certain amount.

Invoices are sent monthly and are required to be paid within 30 days.

Do you have a confidentiality policy?

Yes. All texts are guaranteed to be maintained highly confidential. We do not share or use any of the texts received from our clients for any other purposes.