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Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Website Localization

December 5, 2023

  If you go to 100 different web pages about localization, you’ll likely find 100 different definitions. Companies are naturally going to lean towards interpretations that are relevant to their business (and we’re no exception).  We like the definition pictured above. It’s simple and, most of all, accurate.  But the phrase local in character brings up issues that are anything but simple. It Starts With Words (and that’s just the start)  iTi is a language services company. Our purpose is to help the world communicate and understand each other at its most basic level- the spoken and written word. So…

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The Linguistic Mosaic of the United States

The Linguistic Mosaic of the Most Popular Languages in the United States

November 21, 2023

We were excited to come across this article by Visual Capitalist, a website that turns market research into awesome illustrations. Visual Capitalist created a map of the United States showing, once English and Spanish were eliminated, the next most popular languages spoken in the US. Click on the map image below to get a downloadable copy of the chart that caught our eye. The Dominance of English and Spanish In the United States, the dominance of the English language is unsurprising, with 78% of Americans speaking only English at home. However, the linguistic landscape of the U.S. is far more…

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Over-the-Phone Interpreting: the Most Convenient Language Solution

November 16, 2023

Why Over-the-Phone Interpreting? Depending on which expert study you believe, body language accounts for up to 75% of human communication. That being the case, why would anyone choose to use over-the-phone interpreting (commonly referred to as OPI) as a preferred language service? In-Person Interpreting vs. Remote Professional in-person interpreting is undisputedly the most effective method of communication between parties without a shared language. The nuances of body language, facial expressions, vocal tone, etc. are most easily observed when everyone is in the same room. Additionally, it’s easier for the interpreter to ascertain whether the message is being received as intended,…

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Top AI Tools for Translation and Interpreting

Top A.I. Tools for Translation and Interpreting

November 8, 2023

Since ChatGPT was released in November of 2022, the A.I. industry has experienced explosive growth. Toolify, a website that catalogs AI tools by category, has over 6900 listings as of the date of this post, and must actually use AI tools to keep up with the daily task of adding new sites. As with the dot com boom of the late 90s, many of these new companies will likely not be around in a few years, although for different reasons. One is simple competition—many tools perform the same function, and only the best (and best funded) ones will survive. For example,…

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Unveiling the Mystique: Spooky Words from Around the World

Unveiling the Mystique: Spooky Words from Around the World

October 31, 2023

Halloween is a time for spine-chilling stories, eerie costumes, and an overall celebration of all things mysterious and spooky. But did you know that the realm of languages is also filled with words and phrases that capture the essence of this ghostly season? We’ve delved deep into the lexicon of various languages to bring you seven words and phrases that resonate with the spirit of Halloween. Join us as we uncover the mystique behind these captivating terms. Waldeinsamkeit (German): Imagine finding yourself alone in a forest, surrounded by nothing but the whispering trees and the soft rustle of leaves. “Waldeinsamkeit”…

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Sign Language and the Great British Baking Show Exploring the difference between American and British Sign Languages

Sign Language and The Great British Baking Show

October 25, 2023

  I am a big fan of the Great British Baking Show. I watch it like I watch sports—rooting for my favorites, exhorting them to make good moves and groaning when they make mistakes. In this new season, something extra was added: A sign language interpreter. One of the contestants, Tasha Stones, is deaf and the show has provided an interpreter to assist her in communicating with the judges, presenters, and her fellow contestants. When not elbow deep in flour, Tasha signs as she speaks. While I am not fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), I have enough familiarity to…

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Diverse group of business people with NMSDC logo.

NMSDC: Championing Diversity in Business Since 1972

October 17, 2023

In a world that increasingly celebrates diversity, the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) stands as a beacon, guiding the way toward a more inclusive corporate supply chain landscape. Since its inception, the NMSDC has consistently fostered opportunities for minority businesses, ensuring their voices are heard, their services are recognized, and their contributions are valued. As we anticipate their upcoming conference, we at Interpreters and Translators, Inc., reflect on the NMSDC’s purpose, its remarkable history, and the promising agenda of this much-awaited event. NMSDC: Purpose and Mission The NMSDC is dedicated to helping minority-owned businesses grow and flourish. The council…

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Professional Court Interpreting: Helping to Uphold Constitutional Rights

August 30, 2023

  Established in 1986, Interpreters and Translators, Inc. (iTi) began its journey as a court interpreting service. Through the years, legal language services remain among our core strengths, and the company has witnessed firsthand the significance of accurate interpretation in the courtroom. This article delves into the crucial role of court interpreters and the potential consequences of misinterpretation. Courts are Required to Provide Interpreters Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, entitled National Origin Discrimination Against Persons with Limited English Proficiency, requires “reasonable steps to provide meaningful language access” for limited English proficient (LEP) individuals, and this has…

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Translators vs. Interpreters: Unraveling the Nuances of Two Linguistic Arts

August 17, 2023

In the realm of language services, the roles of translators and interpreters often intermingle in public perception. While both play pivotal roles in bridging linguistic barriers, the skills and competencies they bring to the table include both similarities and contrasts.  As a company that provides both translation and interpreting services, these are characteristics iTi looks for when contracting professional linguists. Skills and Characteristics of a Professional Translator Mastery of Language At the heart of document translation lies a deep understanding of both the source and target languages. A professional translator is fluent, but more than that, they are culturally astute, grasping not just the words…

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Understanding and Optimizing the Cost of Translation for Your Next Project

August 3, 2023

When embarking on a global venture, you are bound to encounter language barriers. In an increasingly diverse marketplace, professional translation services have become necessary for successful communication and marketing. But understanding the factors that can affect translation cost can be overwhelming. This article aims to demystify these costs and provide strategies for maximizing your budget. Optimizing your translation process is an investment. It not only helps control costs but also enhances the effectiveness of your global communication strategy. With the right knowledge and strategy, you can get the best value out of your translation budget. Factors Affecting the Cost of…

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