ISO 17100: The International Standard for Translation Services

ISO 17100 is an international standard that defines the requirements for providing professional translation services. It is designed for translation agencies and individuals offering translation services who want to ensure the high quality of their projects. This article explains what ISO 17100 is, who it is intended for, and the benefits it brings when implemented.

What is ISO 17100?

ISO 17100:2015 is a standard developed to ensure consistency and high quality in translation processes. It replaced the previous standard, EN 15038, by expanding its guidelines and introducing more detailed requirements.

The standard covers:

• Qualifications of individuals involved in the translation process, including translators, reviewers, and proofreaders.
• Organizational requirements for translation service providers, including project management.
• Processes related to the execution of translation services, from project acceptance to delivery.
• Quality management and tools supporting the translation process.

ISO 17100 does not mandate specific technologies or software but emphasizes professionalism and adherence to established procedures.

Who is ISO 17100 for?

The standard is intended for various groups within the translation industry:

1. Translation agencies – Companies that want to highlight the quality of their services and stand out in the market.
2. Freelancers – Individual translators who wish to prove their competence and professionalism.
3. Clients using translation services – Organizations and companies seeking reliable partners for translation projects.
4. Public institutions – Entities that require compliance with quality standards for their translation needs.

What are the benefits of implementing ISO 17100?

1. Enhanced credibility

For translation agencies and freelancers, obtaining ISO 17100 certification signals to clients that their services meet the highest quality standards.

2. Improved work organization

The standard introduces structured processes that minimize errors and improve project efficiency.

3. Competitive advantage

ISO 17100 certification provides a market advantage, especially in tenders and collaborations with international clients.

4. Higher service quality

The standard's requirements for qualified personnel and quality control procedures ensure consistency and reliability in translations.

5. Meeting tender requirements

For many public institutions, having ISO 17100 certification is a prerequisite when selecting service providers.

How to obtain ISO 17100 certification?

To achieve certification under ISO 17100, the following steps are required:

1. Prepare the organization to meet the standard's requirements. This involves analyzing processes, staff qualifications, and project management procedures.
2. Undergo an external audit – An accredited certification body evaluates whether the company or individual meets the standard's criteria.
3. Obtain the certificate after a successful audit.

The certificate is valid for a specified period and requires regular surveillance audits to confirm ongoing compliance.

Where to find a certification body?

If you want to know which organization can assist you in obtaining ISO 17100 certification, visit our ISO Certification Bodies Directory or contact us directly. We can help you find the right partner for your certification process.

Conclusion

ISO 17100 is an essential step toward standardization and improving the quality of translation services. While its implementation requires commitment, it offers numerous benefits, such as better work organization, increased competitiveness, and enhanced service quality.

Are you considering ISO 17100 certification? Explore the available options in our directory and find the right certification body for your needs!

For more details about the standard or to purchase the official ISO 17100 document, visit the official ISO page: ISO 17100:2015.