Most professional translators will be able to handle an IDML file in the CAT (computer-aided translation) tool of their choice. Obviously you’ll end up with multiple InDesign files, one per language. You’ll get back an IDML file which will open nicely, but you’ll almost certainly need to adjust the text flows. A majority of languages run longer than English, by 20-25%.
1. Let them know any terms which you don’t want translated.
2. It’s worth checking through beforehand for “lazy” formatting of text wraps around objects: if the original designer has used soft or hard returns to wrap the text around an object, the differing lengths of the translations will mean it goes horribly wrong. Also in those cases, hard returns within a sentence can potentially lead to a wrong translation, because the CAT tool will segment the words by what it considers to be sentences/paragraphs. If you’re lucky, and the translator is on the ball, they’ll work out what’s going on with the two segments of the same sentence.
3. Look out for text embedded into linked graphics – that won’t be picked up for translation in an IDML file. You’ll need to work out the best way to deal with such text – float text boxes over in InDesign, retype the text in a file for the translator and redo the graphics for each language, or ask the translator to handle the graphics too, but bear in mind that translators aren’t graphic designers and may be unwilling or unable to work in Photoshop or illustrator.
4. Also worth tidying up (deleting) unused text boxes on the pasteboard, as the translator will still see these, translate them and charge for them.
5. One other thing – check that the repertoire of your fonts is sufficient for the translated languages, or else you’ll have to choose a new font.
Chris Thompson
(I’ve a foot in both camps – I’m a translator and Member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists, as well as working with InDesign, combining other people’s designs with other people’s translations)
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