Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Translation and Interpretation?

Translation involves written communication; interpretation involves verbal communication.

What's the difference between Translation, Localization, Internationalization and Globalization?

Translation converts your original content into the target language. This is a complex process, taking into account the entire cultural framework where this content will be delivered. Along with the vocabulary itself, differing business practices, legal system, currency, weights and measures, and countless other cultural differences must be considered–and if necessary we assist you in tailoring the content itself for that situation. Localization is the adaptation of an entire computer program or application (including websites) to another language–not only the menus, dialogs, prompts, etc., but also any written documentation. Internationalization and Globalization are terms for designing software to accommodate multiple cultures (and languages). For example, Web Globalization enables content for multiple languages and cultures around the world to be incorporated in an organized fashion. Far beyond simply providing versions of text to visitors in their own language, appropriate currency, weights and measures, etc. are adapted accordingly, and the content itself may vary according to the language/country selected by the user. (For example, availability of products and services, as well as warranty policies, contact information for technical support and other company divisions, foreign subsidiaries, importers, etc., may not be same for all countries.)

How many different languages can ASIST handle?

Currently, we provide professional translation services in all languages and dialects.
 

Can you deal with non-Roman alphabets, and so-called "double-byte" text?

Of course! We regularly complete translations and complex layouts in Japanese, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Korean, Laotian, Cambodian, Thai, Hindi, Hebrew, Arabic, etc.

What file formats does ASIST accept?

Everything including Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, PageMaker, Photoshop, FrameMaker, Acrobat; Quark Xpress, Macromedia FreeHand, Claris FileMaker Pro, Corel Draw, most word processing programs... Of course, we can also deliver these and many other formats, according to the requirements of your project, and we're equally comfortable with Macintosh and Windows environments. In the best interest of our clients, we are continually updating our software to include the most current versions available.

What about engineering & architectural drawings, programs such as AutoCAD, etc.?

Can do! Often, we provide Microsoft Word documents, with appropriate tags to identify where each element belongs in your AutoCAD document. But if you prefer, we can also place these directly into the original CAD document.
 

How do I know what dialect of a language should be used for my translated documents?

You don't have to—we do! Once we've determined the countries where your translations must be used, we help you choose the language variety (or "dialect") that will be appropriate. (Sometimes more than one may be required.) For instance, there are significant vocabulary and grammatical differences between European and American Spanish. Distinct varieties of Spanish are spoken within the countries of South, Central and North America (including Mexico and the USA itself). It's important to always use translators who are native speakers of the target dialect.

Can you assist us in converting videos, or interactive projects, to another language?

Of course! ASIST's services range from transcription of text files for narration, casting and direction of voice talent in the alternate languages, translations of screen text, subtitling and captions, supervision of editing in order to ensure correct placement, audio production to CD duplication.
 

What's up with that spelling? Is ASIST an acronym?

Yes! ASIST stands for Associates in Scientific Information Search and Translation. When ASIST, Inc. started its operations over two decades ago, we were primarily involved in drafting analytical reports on state-of-the-art technologies, derived from foreign technical publications, under the auspices of U.S. Government agencies. The company evolved into translating highly technical materials to and from all major languages, and from there into language services of all types, including translation, interpreting services, multi-cultural training, software localization and web globalization, etc. Today our in-house Marketing, Production and Desktop Publishing departments assure the highest quality of translations and outstanding customer service. ASIST is the largest translation service in Central Ohio and among the largest in the Midwest.

Do you provide interpreting and translation support in ASL (American Sign Language) and Braille?

Yes, we do provide ASL interpreting and Braille translations.  ASIST has provided these services for numerous clients all over the country.

Do you provide transcription and time coding services?

Yes, we do. Not only can we provide these services in English, we can also provide them in foreign languages as well.