Which CAT tool? A CAT tools overview

The aim of this course is to provide translators with an understanding of CAT tools, how they help improve their translation workflow, and how to choose the right tool for their needs. We provide an overview of the major CAT tools used in the industry, their strengths and weaknesses, and their specific uses. At the end of the course, you will:

1. understand the basic concepts of CAT tools, such as TM, segments, fuzzy;
2. understand how you can improve translation workflow;
3. understand how to choose the right tool depending on specific needs;
4. know where to look for further help.

COURSE OUTLINE The main principles of CAT tools, such as, segmentation, translation memory (TM), glossary, pre-translation, concordances, and fuzzy search, and alignment of previously translated reference material.

Trados: An overview of Trados and its components, advantages and disadvantages, applications, and where to buy it and find support.
Wordfast: An overview of Wordfast and its components, advantages and disadvantages, applications, and where to buy it and find support.
Transit: An overview of Transit and its components, advantages and disadvantages, applications, and where to buy it and find support.
Other tools: An overview of some other CAT and non-CAT tools used by translation agencies to optimize productivity.

How to choose the right one: A recap of the strength of each of the CAT tools and their specific field of application.

ROI: An overview on ROI (Return On Investment) of CAT tools for those translators who either work with direct clients or with agencies who do not use CAT tools. Generally CAT tools help increase productivity by 30%.

Exercises: At the end of the course, the participants tackle individual exercises, and then work in groups.

BIOGRAPHY: Roberto has worked at Star Group (Italian, Swiss and Spanish branches) for almost 5 years and now trains clients and translators in using Star CAT tool, as well as training junior translators, and presenting regularly at conferences. He also provides general and specific IT training.