Harmonization of TIQA standards for specialized texts

Abstract

This research explores translation and interpreting quality assessment standards (TIQA), selecting those fit for the purpose of specialized translation quality assurance, with the aim to systematize them into a step-by-step framework, referred to as “the TIQA pyramid”, a framework that provides valid and reproducible benchmarks that are endowed with universal features and reflected in codes of ethics and professional standards. The TIQA standards may be subdivided into two major groups: text-oriented and ethical-deontological ones. Such classification is based on the notion of translation quality which is the projection of a translator (interpreter)’s personality (inchoate quality assurance arising out of a system of ethical and deontological precepts), or of textual requirements (choate quality assurance arising out of a system of text-oriented criteria). The “pas-de-trois” in a translated interaction among the commissioner of a specialized translation, its performer and end-user is grounded in the presumably existing mediated communication contract (typically a translation brief). Its positive upshot is manifested in the confidence-imbued multi-party polypragmatic interlingual and intercultural behaviour; the negative, however, is underscored by its implicit nature which leads to the absence of a concerted system of quality criteria, resulting in a lack of satisfaction and mutual trust.