Global Life Sciences Success Through Precise Localization

In the dynamic realm of life sciences, precise and culturally attuned translations are indispensable for global success. The life sciences sector demands unparalleled accuracy in translation, where major errors in product labels, patient consent forms, or research documents can compromise patient safety and invite legal challenges. High translation quality transcends regulatory compliance; it is vital for protecting lives. This segment of our Life Sciences Localization Blog Series explores the pivotal role of measurable translation quality in enhancing localization programs’ effectiveness.

Quantifying Measurable Translation Quality 

Measurable translation quality involves using specific standards and metrics to assess translated content’s accuracy, consistency, and cultural appropriateness. These metrics include error types and severity, adherence to glossaries and style guides, and the effectiveness of cultural localization. Setting clear, quantifiable quality benchmarks enables organizations to objectively evaluate and refine their localization strategies.

Crafting a Quality-Centric Localization Strategy 

While it seems straightforward to define and implement measurable quality standards, While it seems straightforward to define and implement measurable quality standards, effective integration into a localization strategy is complex. Essential steps for incorporating measured quality to drive superior outcomes include:

1. Establish Clear Quality Standards

Identify the content types requiring localization (e.g., IFU’s, consent forms, website content). For each, set precise quality levels, considering the content’s audience, the necessity for exact translation or transcreation, and the importance of consistency.

2. Define Success Metrics (KPI’s)

Traditional quality measurements often fail to provide a comprehensive evaluation and they are reported too late in the process. Select or customize a translation quality framework and define metrics aligning with your quality standards. For example, one metric may be adherence to the required reading level for patient facing material. To measure this, capture one or a combination of the following:

• in-process evaluation metrics for readability done by the LSP (e.g., their quality control personnel evaluates the translator’s work)
• metrics for readability from your the client’s reviewer or a 3rd party reviewer
• AI-assisted evaluations of readability

Benchmark current performance against these KPIs to identify areas for improvement.

3. Optimize Workflows to Meet Standards

Instead of adding steps, which could prolong turnaround times, leverage technology to meet quality and efficiency goals. Utilize Content Management Systems, Translation Management Systems, Computer-Assisted Translation, and Machine Translation tools.

Explore auto-QA technologies and AI-assisted quality checks to reduce the risk of human error. These technologies automate translation quality checks, ensure consistent terminology usage, and streamline workflows, contributing to higher quality outcomes.

Integrate quality evaluations directly into your workflows, shifting towards risk-based evaluations once you have sufficient data. Move towards automating these risk-based evaluation triggers. This can be done by customizing a TMS or by using a 3rd party tool (such as the upcoming #ContentQuo Plan).

Adopting a measurable quality framework in life sciences localization is not merely beneficial but essential. It ensures global content’s precision and cultural suitability, meeting rigorous regulatory standards, and fostering trust among global stakeholders. By embracing clear quality benchmarks, cutting-edge technology, and stringent quality control, life sciences organizations can achieve localization excellence, contributing significantly to their international success and patient safety.

Check out my upcoming classes with the #localizationinstitute:

• ReadySetGo: Life Sciences Localization: April 24, 2024: Participants will learn about the regulatory requirements impacting the localization process and best practices to effectively achieve compliance with these requirements.
• Life Sciences Localization Master Class: May 1-22, 2024: This course will enable participants to understand what localizing life sciences content entails and how it can be effectively managed in a life sciences regulatory context. This class will focus on how to incorporate process and technology to effectively achieve compliance with these requirements.

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