Don’t let Medical Innovations get lost in translation
Professional translation services are as essential as financial backing and R&D to successfully launch a new medical technology into the global marketplace.
That’s the message from medical translation specialist The Translation People, which is offering free one-to-one consultations for visitors to Compamed 2009.
David Nichols, Director of The Translation People, said: “Innovations in medical technology are of global relevance and it is important that language and cultural barriers do not impede access to new markets.
“As well as meeting legal requirements – for example, in the clinical trials sector – professional translation can provide a quicker route to market by ensuring that product information is presented in the correct way for customers in different countries.”
The Translation People has worked extensively across the medical technology and pharmaceutical sectors, supporting AIDS research, translating medical device IFUs and localising marketing material for new pharmaceutical product launches.
The company’s advice for successful medical translation is:
- Plan early – make sure you factor in translation requirements right at the beginning of the process
- Choose the right partner – be sure your supplier has the specific medical knowledge and language skills, and a proven track record
- Be rigorous – for critical documents, some companies request back-translation for extra peace of mind.
- Be sensitive – let your translation partner guide you on local and cultural differences that may affect your research
- Look at the big picture – a good translation partner can translate words ‘in situ’ within your chosen design or format
The Translation People will be at stand E14, Hall 8b at Compamed 2009 from 18 – 20 November.
