Monday, 30 November -0001 00:00

What is DTP and when is it necessary?

DTP stands for “desktop-publishing”. It means the computer software-assisted editing and preparation of materials intended for reproduction via printing. These materials can include various leaflets and brochures, Patient Information Leaflets, IFUs and DFUs, and even books or booklets.

LinguaMED desktop publishingBecause these projects require printing press quality materials, in many cases the job of the translation agency ends with the translation and/or proof-reading. However, because this job requires special training not always available at all clients in-house, LinguaMED offers desktop-publishing as an additional service.

Upon submission of the original PDF document, we can provide you with a price estimate; however, submission of source files (prepared with programs such as QuarkXPress or InDesign), original graphic files, fonts, logos and diagrams is absolutely required for us to furnish the exact final price quote and complete the translation process.

Before translation and proof-reading, the text content of the source file is imported into the appropriate CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) software. This is followed by completing the translation, and then reinserting the translated text content into the source document. This is where the actual DTP work phase begins. Our graphic designers perform the required editing work, and the material thus prepared is then returned to the client in a format that is in all ways identical to that of the original document. Depending on the client’s feedback and needs, the document can be still be modified later if necessary. Before printing the final PDF document, it is always recommended to include an additional proof-reading phase, i.e. a final check of the text. If needed, LinguaMED also offers proof-reading services: the translation is proof-read in the finalised PDF format, with special attention paid to pagination, punctuation and style. This is followed by approval by the client, after which the final document can be sent to press. Just like the package we originally received, the finished material is returned to the client in electronic form as a complete package that includes all the necessary files.

DTP processing charges are usually calculated on an hourly basis depending on the volume of the editing work. When submitting an estimate we do our very best to accurately calculate the number of required working hours, however, the final accounting is based on the number of actual work hours, which might be less than or exceed the original estimate. Deadlines depend on a number of factors such as the number of pages, words and graphical files (pictures), the degree of difficulty of the source text, the target language, etc. Our Clients always receive a personalised and customised quote that takes into account all of these parameters.