We have a special way of working. In order to be able to provide the highest possible quality of translation, at Noorderlicht, at least two individuals always work on the text: one source language native speaker, who creates the first version of the translation, and a target language native speaker, who then proofreads the translation, edits it, and, when necessary, discusses it with the first translator.

Many translation agencies pride themselves on the fact that their translation work ‘is carried out exclusively by target language native speakers’. We have decided on an extra step because the source language native speaker is better able to understand and interpret the text to be translated. In this way, extra attention is given to the semantic aspect.

A concrete example of our work procedure:
A Dutch contract to be translated into French, for example, is first translated by a Dutch legal translator who has studied French. This translator is responsible for providing the correct semantics. The French version of the translation is then proofread and corrected by a native French person, who has completed a Higher Vocational Education or University Education. This second translator is responsible for perfecting the spelling and grammar as well as fine-tuning the style of the piece, so that the equally important linguistic aspect is rendered according to our own very high standard.

Of course this sequence can also be reversed; then the target language native speaker provides the first version, after which the source language native speaker compares it with the original and checks the semantics and interpretation. In this way we give the same attention to the correct interpretation as to the appropriate style of writing in the target text, which results in a readable, properly translated and faultless text.

In cases of doubt or when specialist terminology outside of our own considerable range of research is concerned, a third person, a specialist in his or her relevant professional field, is often consulted. We do not hesitate in directly approaching people in ‘real life practice’, as divergent as, for example, a dermatologist to find out about skin conditions or a garage owner or mechanic who can explain the finer points of the workings of a particular car part.

Should you wish to translate into Dutch, your text can be examined – at no extra cost – by a Dutch specialist. This can be very useful if you wish to publish your text!

In order to retain our low charges, we keep our overhead costs down; all of our translators are homeworkers who use the Internet to connect with one another and the office. This office will remain the contact point for all customers.

Service
We make every effort to ensure that you are a satisfied (and hopefully loyal) customer. Should it happen that you are not satisfied with the translation, then you are welcome to tell us what exactly you are not happy with, and we will rework it to your satisfaction – free of charge, of course.