Forum: CAT Tools Technical Help
Topic: Is there a need for multiple CAT tools?
Poster: ttp_doza
Hi, some valuable points have already been explained. I think the key questions are "What are you aiming at?" and "What do your customers expect?" If your are only working with direct customers, they'll probably just expect you to deliver the translation in the source format, and usually it is a Word, PPT or Excel file. In that case you shouldn't really change to another tool, as you might not be able to re-use your TMs, termbases and the like with a new tool. Most of them promise a certain degree of compatibility, but from my 30+ years of experience, they are not always compatible.
On the other hand, when it comes to more complex format from Pagemaker, Framemaker, or similar applications, you might get stuck with your CAT tool as it may not be able to convert such complex formats. If your customers are willing, they'd convert to some format that you can handle, but not all are able or willing.
And, last but not least, should you plan to work for translation agencies as a steady source of income, you may be asked to use one or the other tool. Some of them like Across are free for freelancers, others are not. In some cases the agency may provide you with a licence for their own proprietary tool, and if you accept to use it, you will have an advantage over other translators.
So, my advice is: As long as there is no necessity to change to another tool or buy one in addition, stay with the one you know and feel comfortable with. It always takes time (and sometimes causes a lot of stress) to swap horses in the middle of the race.
Topic: Is there a need for multiple CAT tools?
Poster: ttp_doza
Hi, some valuable points have already been explained. I think the key questions are "What are you aiming at?" and "What do your customers expect?" If your are only working with direct customers, they'll probably just expect you to deliver the translation in the source format, and usually it is a Word, PPT or Excel file. In that case you shouldn't really change to another tool, as you might not be able to re-use your TMs, termbases and the like with a new tool. Most of them promise a certain degree of compatibility, but from my 30+ years of experience, they are not always compatible.
On the other hand, when it comes to more complex format from Pagemaker, Framemaker, or similar applications, you might get stuck with your CAT tool as it may not be able to convert such complex formats. If your customers are willing, they'd convert to some format that you can handle, but not all are able or willing.
And, last but not least, should you plan to work for translation agencies as a steady source of income, you may be asked to use one or the other tool. Some of them like Across are free for freelancers, others are not. In some cases the agency may provide you with a licence for their own proprietary tool, and if you accept to use it, you will have an advantage over other translators.
So, my advice is: As long as there is no necessity to change to another tool or buy one in addition, stay with the one you know and feel comfortable with. It always takes time (and sometimes causes a lot of stress) to swap horses in the middle of the race.