DIN 2345: A Comprehensive Guide to Translation Contracts

What is the DIN 2345 Standard?

The DIN 2345 standard, published by the German Institute for Standardization in 1998, regulates translation contracts. It defines terms and activities to standardize and unify translation procedures, ensuring a smooth process. Key aspects include the organization of the translation process, handling of the source text (ST) and target text (TT), and revision of the TT.

Organization of a Translation Project

According to DIN 2345, organizing a translation project involves:

• Translator selection
• Client-translator agreements
• Client support for the translator
• Sub-contracting procedures
• Documentation

Requirements Concerning the Source Text (ST)

DIN 2345 outlines specific requirements for the ST:

• The client is responsible for the ST's linguistic and professional accuracy.
• The translator must inform the client of any errors in the ST.
• The client should be available to answer the translator's questions.
• A thorough ST analysis is required, including:
  • Text overview
  • Terminology review
  • Examination of client-provided materials
  • Research using monolingual/bilingual texts and other resources
  • Consultation with the client on content and terminology issues

The Framework of a Translation Project

Requirements Concerning the Target Text (TT)

DIN 2345 sets the following requirements for the TT:

• Accurate representation of the ST content
• Adherence to the client's formatting requirements
• Conformance to target language (TL) linguistic standards (grammar, spelling, punctuation, usage norms)

Transliteration, Transcription, and Phonemic Translation

Transliteration represents each grapheme of one script with a grapheme of another script. Example: Russian (Горбачёв) to German (Gorbatschow) to English (Gorbachev) to Hungarian (Gorbacsov).

Transcription represents the sound value of each grapheme in one script with a grapheme or group of graphemes in another script. The ISO recommends transliteration whenever possible (e.g., Arabic, Greek, Hebrew, Cyrillic). Example: Latin script to Chinese script. Transcriptions are based on spelling regularities (e.g., Hungarian "csi" to English "chi").

Phonemic translation substitutes each source language form with a homophonic or near-homophonic equivalent. Primarily used in poetry translation, prioritizing sound and rhythm over precise meaning. Example: "Michelangelo? Michael Jackson." translated to Hungarian as "Mi kell, Angelo? Máj kell, Jackson."

Requirements Concerning TT Revision

Before submitting the TT to the client, the translator must review it based on these criteria:

• Completeness
• Accuracy of content and terminology
• Language (spelling, grammar, usage)
• Adherence to agreed-upon TT criteria
• Compliance with other client agreements
• Appropriateness of translator's comments

A qualified reviser may be involved upon agreement between the translator and client.