Can I afford to hire a professional?

You can’t afford NOT to. Poor translation and interpreting services can be disastrous for your business. See what’s at stake.

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What's the difference?

Translators do the writing. Interpreters do the talking. ATA helps you find the right language professional.

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Can't a computer do all this?

There are times when machine translation is useful, and times when it's not. Learn when to use Google Translate, and when to hire a professional.

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Find a Professional Translator or Interpreter

When you are committed to quality, the language professional you need is an ATA member.

Follow the ATA Compass

The ATA Compass is your guide to translation and interpreting in the global market.

Guide to Buying Interpreting Services, Part II: Interpreting Modality and Modes

Interpreters work in a variety of settings and in a variety of ways. These are important to understand when hiring an interpreter or team of interpreters and this article explains modality and mode as related to interpreting. To find out more about interpreting, refer to the American Translators Association’s Guide…

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The Value of Human Translation

I’m a technophile. In my very human career field of translation and copywriting, I embrace technology wholeheartedly. I also advocate for it when I teach and mentor others. I think tech skills are just as critical as language skills for a successful career in translation. So I don’t dislike AI.…

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Guide to Buying Interpreting Services, Part I: Finding and Choosing an Interpreter

Interpreters help power the global economy, working with businesses, governments, non-profits and individuals. They are an integral part of global communication. Interpreters work with the spoken or signed word. The American Translators Association (ATA) has developed a Guide to Buying Interpreting Services as a resource to help clients identify, select…

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More Client Resources

Buying Language Services

Download our free mini guides that help you navigate the process of hiring and working with a language professional. They are available in multiple languages.

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Guide to agreements and contracts

ATA provides guidance for standard terms, conditions, and clauses. Adaptable samples of agreements and contracts are available.

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Need a certified translation?

In the U.S. anyone can certify a translation. A translator does not need to be certified in order to provide a certified translation.

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