Welcome to another episode of Tech Talk with me, Jen, of American Data Pro. This week we’re talking about online translation tools. In today’s global marketplace, bridging language barriers is crucial for business growth. With advanced computing and AI, these tools have evolved beyond simple phrase-based translations. Now, they offer nuanced translations for multicultural engagements—at no cost. Let’s explore how these tools work, examine popular options, and reveal how businesses can leverage this technology to engage a broader audience.
How Do Online Translation Tools Work?
Web-based tools like Google Translate use an artificial neural network to increase fluency and accuracy. These networks, also called Neural Machine Translation (NMT) systems, work by converting the words you give it into vectors, then using advanced math to calculate the most likely words you are trying to use. Over time, the results get better as more feedback and content are received.
Which Online Translation Tools Are Out There?
Three of the most popular online translation tools available for free are Google Translate, DeepL, and Naver’s Papago. The three were tested in English (U.S.) to Korean translations.
Features:
- Multi-platform
- Text/image/document translation
Pros:
- Most recognizable
- Easy to use
- Most language choices
- Free
Cons:
- More perceived errors than other services
No register/honorifics options
Features:
- Multi-platform
- Text, PDF, document, and PowerPoint translation
- English writing editor (DeepL Write)
Pros:
- Cited as Most Accurate by multiple news sites
- Google Workspace and Office 365 integration
- Secure Data Storage
Cons
- Limited free service
- Fewer language choices
No register/honorifics options
Features:
- Multi-platform
- Text/document translation
- Real time voice/image translation via app
Pros:
- Most accurate to native Korean discourse
- Well-known in Asia
- Honorific option
- Free
Cons:
- Less known globally
Fewer language options
How Can Businesses Leverage This Technology?
You can acquire new clients by communicating with them in their own language. How many people are we talking? In 2019, the U.S. Census Bureau found that 1 in 5 people spoke a language other than English at home. That is 20% of the population that you can reach by effectively using these tools!
To hit home the importance of communicating in your clients’ own languages, Nelson Mandela famously said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” Using these tools, you can add a feeling of personalization to your marketing materials, and readers will appreciate the effort you have made to reach them.
Online Translation Tools – A Review
We have demystified how online translation tools work, went over three of the most recognized options, and discussed why using these services can benefit your business. Feel free to explore these tools, and if you want to learn more, contact me via the “Contact Us” page on the website. And if you’ve found this useful, please subscribe to get my weekly blog posts on business tech trends. Thank you again for reading another edition of Tech Talk with me, Jen, from American Data Pro.