DTP and Graphic Design

The TMX format has become the standard for exchanging translation memories between translation systems, even those installed on different operating systems.

Communication between companies from different cultures and languages has become a common necessity today. It is crucial for companies seeking to expand internationally to understand the linguistic and cultural particularities of their target markets. One of these often overlooked particularities is the reading direction. 

PDF files are one of the most widespread formats for displaying text content in documents. This is why it is often the only format we have for translating a contract, a brochure, a data sheet or a user manual. However, PDF files are only content exchange files. In fact, PDF stands for Portable Document Format.

Although there are still marketing departments that send Word documents for translation of documents created in InDesign, many of them are already aware of the possibility of sending InDesign files directly for translation.

Years ago Sysfilter came into my life, and I can ensure you that it is one of the best investments we have made in the company.

It provides DTP operators with a tool that, I would say, is essential in the day-to-day operations of the translation industry and, of course, of multilingual layout (or DTP if you prefer).

This article describes how to process AutoCAD files in order to translate them with computer assisted translation tools such as Trados SDL Studio, memoQ, WordFast, Start Transit, Déjà Vu, etc. We will also offer some pointers to avoid certain problems that could arise during the export/import process or when typesetting AutoCAD files post translation.