Translation FAQ

The criteria Oregon Translation uses when initially screening our translators include these factors:

1. First and foremost, does the candidate demonstrate excellence in writing? If the candidate cannot write well in one language, we cannot expect him to write well in two.
2. How did the candidate acquire two (or more) languages? Did the candidate have formal schooling in each language?
3. Has the candidate been immersed in two or more cultures? Which ones? How long in each?
4. Does the candidate only translate into his native language? Best practices stipulate that you should only translate into your native language because you are best able to grasp and render nuance and allusion in that language.
5. Does the candidate have at least five (5) years experience actively working as a language professional (translator or interpreter)?
6. Does the candidate make ongoing efforts to improve his abilities: active participation in professional associations, continuing education credits, and periodic sojourns in countries where each language is spoken?
7. Does the candidate hold a university diploma(s) AND credentials from professional translators associations?

Beyond that, we interview and test our translators. We check professional references and credentials. We also actively solicit feedback from other translators through our quality control process and from our customers.