Translation technology in institutional settings: A decision-making framework for the implementation of computer-assisted translation systems

While it seems that the use of computer-assisted translation tools is now consolidated and integrated into professional environments, and that the characteristics and needs of each working context have been identified to make the most of these tools, there is still a gap in the academic literature - from the perspective of Translation Studies - with regard to experimental studies into the interaction between translators and computer-assisted translation tools. In order to limit the scope of the study presented in this chapter and given the variety of profiles and contexts of professional translators, the focus in this chapter will be on translation in institutional settings, since the complexity and variety of processes involved in drafting and translating documentation in such settings seems to be better established. Using both the specific characteristics of translating in institutional contexts and the identification of the real need for the implementation of computer-assisted translation systems as our starting point, we will first propose a classification of tasks, types of users and types of texts, making use of the documentary records of different institutions. Subsequently, a pilot study will be presented, based on the main features of the institutional context of translation, which influence the way in which the capabilities of computer-assisted translation systems are utilised. The starting point for this study is the assumption that the basic functions and uses of computer-assisted translation systems make training and dedicated terminology management necessary. The conclusion is that institutional translation has a number of specific requirements, which the appropriate selection and implementation of this technology must meet and which must be accompanied by the creation of resources enabling such tools to demonstrate their efficacy.