Translation and interpreting service providers

AI translation tools now handle much everyday translation quickly and cheaply. But some work still needs a professional, and some needs formal certification.

• AI (machine) translation suits high volumes where a small error has little consequence: internal documents, general web content and live chat with customers.
• Human translation suits work where accuracy, tone and cultural nuance matter: contracts, medical information, marketing and important customer letters.
• Certified translation is needed when a government body, court or regulator requires a translation by a certified practitioner who signs for its accuracy.

Many providers combine the two: AI for speed, with a professional reviewing anything important.

• Telephone and video interpreting: an interpreter joins the call on demand, so any agent can help a customer who doesn't speak your language.
• Translated content: letters, FAQs, help articles and IVR messages in your customers' main languages.
• Real-time chat translation: AI translates messages between agent and customer as they type, often built into chat platforms.
• Multilingual agents: outsourcers with agents who speak your customers' languages. See customer service outsourcing.
• Recorded voice prompts: professionally recorded IVR and on-hold messages in several languages. See voice, on-hold and IVR recording.

NAATI (the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) sets the national standard for translators and interpreters in Australia and certifies practitioners against it.

Australian government agencies generally require translations of non-English documents to be done by a NAATI-certified translator. Common examples:

• Visa, citizenship and other immigration applications
• Court proceedings and legal documents
• Birth, marriage and identity documents
• Overseas qualifications submitted for recognition

Always check the requirements of the agency you're submitting to. AI translation can't replace a certified translation in these settings.

Government agencies, courts and regulators often require translations of official documents to be done by a certified or sworn translator. Common examples:

• Visa, citizenship and other immigration applications
• Court proceedings and legal documents
• Birth, marriage and identity documents
• Overseas qualifications submitted for recognition

Each country sets its own rules on who can certify a translation. Check what the receiving agency, court or regulator requires before you order. AI translation can't replace a certified translation in these settings.