How can I tell whether a translation agency’s quality checks are real or just paperwork?

Start with the process the seller describes, then test it against real files. Pick finished jobs yourself rather than accepting a handpicked set. For each, ask who translated it, who reviewed it, what they changed and how long the review took. A second reader who never changes anything should make you curious.

Next, look at how errors are handled. Ask for client complaints and the way each was resolved. Did anyone find the cause, tell the translator and update a glossary? Good agencies learn from mistakes; weak ones simply redo the job. Also ask how reviewers are chosen for specialized material such as legal or medical text, and whether they work in the field.

Then speak with a few translators and reviewers if the seller allows it. They will tell you quickly whether the checks are respected or rushed. Finally, check whether quality work is reflected in the books: repeat clients, few refunds and reasonable reviewer costs all suggest a working system. Your accountant can help you read those figures against the financial statements. Ask, too, whether clients ever see or request the review notes, since an agency proud of its checks usually shares them readily.

Key takeaways

• Follow real projects end to end and look for corrections, not only signed checklists.
• Read complaints and see whether the agency learned anything from them.
• Talk to reviewers and translators, since they know if the process is respected.