When managing a translation project, your goal is to set your team up for success. This starts at the very beginning: providing clear and concise instructions that your translation teams can refer to throughout the project life cycle. A proactive approach, anticipating issues before they arise, is always better than a reactive one.

I’m Javiera, a translator currently working as a Project Manager at Interpro Translation Solutions. This dual perspective gives me valuable insight into how to kick off a translation project on the right foot. I’ve received translation instructions and written my own, and I’ve learned a thing or two along the way.

Good instructions can significantly impact the quality of the final deliverable, the efficiency of your team, and overall client satisfaction. I’ve seen projects become more complicated than necessary simply because clear instructions weren’t provided on time.

Why Clear Instructions Matter for Your Translation Team

Imagine this scenario: A client asks your team to localize an eLearning course for onboarding new hires. The company uses its own software to store and share documents. You give your translators instructions that seem solid:

“Please translate this eLearning course, which teaches new hires important aspects of their new job. Take into account cultural nuances of your target language, and use a friendly, somewhat informal tone.”

But there’s one major omission that could affect both quality and deadlines: there’s no mention of how to handle User Interface (UI) elements.

Your translators receive this job and start working immediately. But on day three, they encounter UI elements for the first time. You promised the client you’d deliver the translation in five business days, and you are already on day three. You need to go back to the client to ask whether their software is localized and how they want UI elements handled. 

Then you wait… 

Maybe they’ll respond immediately, or maybe it’ll take all day or even longer.

Now your linguists are anxious because they cannot resume work until this question has been cleared up; you are feeling stressed because the client has not gotten back to you and your whole timeline is compromised due to this one detail being overlooked.

Common Pitfalls in Translation Instructions

Clients are often in a rush, and that urgency trickles down to everyone involved. You try to move quickly, but skipping a proper assessment of the project can be a costly mistake. Even spending just 10–20 minutes crafting clear instructions can save you hours later. It might feel like a delay, but in the grand scheme, it’s time well spent.

One very common mistake when you are in a rush is to send the job without actually reviewing the content yourself. Always look at the material with a translator’s mindset. For example, if the content has references, does the client usually ask you to keep them in English, or should they be localized?

You might know the client well, but your team may not. Providing context is key:

• What does this company do?
• Where are they located?
• What’s their official website?

Never assume your team knows the product, even if it’s well-known. You’re often the main point of contact with the client, so be proactive. If you’re unsure about something, ask the client before passing the job along.

What Exactly you Need to Include in a Great Instruction Set

Here’s a checklist of essential important elements you should consider mentioning in your instructions: r instructions should cover:

1. General overview: What’s being translated and why?
2. Target audience: Who will read this content?
3. Tone and style: Should it be formal or informal? Technical or marketing-focused?
4. Terminology guidance: Include glossaries, if any, and encourage their use. If certain terms should remain untranslated, provide a “do-not-translate” list.
5. Formatting notes: Do User Interface elements have length constraints? Should placeholders be left as is? Can tags be moved around?
6. Localization rules: Give clear instructions on how to deal with units of measurement, date formats, currencies, etc.
7. Reference materials: Mention any screenshots, previous translations, demos, or other resources you’re providing.
8. Workflow overview: If the project includes Desktop Publishing or Multimedia Localization, especially if the translation team will be performing Quality Assurance later on, let them know the full scope.

Tips for Writing Instructions that Translators Actually Read

• Be concise but complete: Don’t oversimplify, but avoid overwhelming detail. This balance takes practice; don’t be shy! Ask you translators for feedback.
• Use formatting for clarity: Bullet points, bold text, and headings help. Use color sparingly to highlight key points without making the document hard to read.
• Anticipate questions: Try to think like a translator. What would you want to know if you were receiving this job?
• Know your tendencies: If you tend to oversimplify, double-check for missing details. If you’re too wordy, try to say the same with fewer words.

Book a Consultation to Help You Prep for the Translation Process

Not sure where to begin? Need a little more help getting started? Book a call with our team to talk about your translation questions. 

Investing time in a good set of instructions is never time wasted. You’ll give your translation team a clearer path forward, reduce back-and-forth, and improve the final outcome. Clear instructions are a cornerstone of a successful translation project.

Talk to Interpro about your translation & localization plan.

FAQs

What should a translation brief include?

Audience and goals, tone/style with examples, glossary and do-not-translate list, UI/formatting limits, references, and workflow/QA steps.

How do I tailor instructions for HR vs. eLearning?

HR requires compliance/legal alignment; eLearning needs LMS/SCORM specs, media notes, and UI character constraints.

What causes delays in translation projects?

Missing UI guidance, unclear terminology, no access to references, and late decisions on style or workflow, just to name a few.

How can I reduce rework and scope creep?

Approve the glossary early, use a DNT list, define change-request rules, and agree on QA acceptance criteria at kickoff.

Explore Services

Consulting • Translation • eLearning • Video & Multimedia • Document

The post A Project Manager’s Guide: How to Write Clear Instructions for Translation Teams appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Empanadas are quickly gaining popularity around the world. They aren’t just popular in Latin America, Spain or Portugal anymore; now you can find them even in English-speaking countries. This article explores the history, variations and cultural significance of empanadas.

What is an Empanada?

They are a type of pastry made of a fairly thin dough, which can have a bread-like consistency or be flakier, with a sweet or savory filling.

Its pronunciation is easier than it might seem: em-puh-naa-thuh. The Chilean pronunciation is a bit different. In this Spanish variant, speakers tend to drop the “thuh,” and just say “em-puh-naa.”

Origin

Tracing the exact origin of this delicious food can be challenging. Nevertheless, most sources point to Portugal and Spain during the Middle Ages. Some say the word itself comes from the word pan (bread in Spanish), which becomes a verb to say empanar, basically, surround something with bread.

The most widely accepted theory is that empanadas were used as convenience food: people could fill bread with vegetables or meat and take them on trips. This also helped preserve the filling for a bit longer. To make them even more convenient, people started cooking the bread dough with the filling to save time. Over the years, the dough was tweaked for a tastier consistency, giving us the empanada we know today.

Empanadas in Chile

During the early colonization period, around 1540, Spaniards brought with them a new and groundbreaking food: Empanadas. People seemed to like it, and criollos (people of Spanish descent born in Latin America) started experimenting with the original recipe. They added grease to the dough, usually in the form of butter, making it moister and tastier. They also took inspiration from the Mapuche, the indigenous people of Chile, who used “pino” (a meat mince with garlic, onion, raisins, and chili) in many of their foods. The criollos decided to put this pino into the empanadas, along with a slice of hard-boiled egg.

Evidence suggests that Chilean empanadas, as we know them today, were made as early as 1652. A painting in the Cathedral of Santiago called “Holy Dinner” depicts an empanada, indicating it had already become a Chilean staple by that time.

Modern Variations

Today, you can find endless fillings and doughs for empanadas. Some have seafood, others have cheese and plantain. While variations often depend on the country, personal preference also plays a significant role.

Typical Chilean empanadas are made with pino, which contains meat, but in recent years, vegans have adapted the recipe so they can enjoy them too. Empanada consumption in Chile is usually once or twice a month, but during September, it skyrockets. This is because empanadas are closely tied to Chilean tradition, and during the month of Chile’s independence, they quickly fill every store, fair, and family table. Vegans have come up with creative ways to replace meat, using ingredients like textured vegetable protein, quinoa, or black beans. Some even make vegan hard-boiled eggs with tofu, corn starch, and mustard.

Empanadas Beyond the “Empanada”

Some argue that empanadas are present in many cultures, not just the ones mentioned throughout this article. Although this is a hot debate which can ruffle some feathers, there are foods around the world which follow the same empanada principle.

We already covered the basics: Empanadas are a dough with a filling. If we take this definition and apply it elsewhere, we could mention foods like samosas (India), dumplings (China) and panzerotti (Italy).

Wrapping up like a perfectly folded empanada!

This tasty stuffed pastry is extremely versatile; it can be sweet or savory, big or small, fried or oven-baked, vegan or non-vegan! Whatever the case may be, you can always adapt them to suit even the pickiest eater.

Are you ready to make your own empanada at home? Or do you want to learn more about other cultures?

Culture and Business: 5 Books to Understand the Connection

7 Essential Japanese Phrases for Traveling to Japan

Fictional Languages: Exploring their Origin and Cultural Significance

The post A Taste of Culture: The History of Empanadas appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

This article is based on the firsthand experience of Javiera, a translation and localization Project Manager from Chile, who recently traveled to Japan. Drawing from her journey, she shares the seven essential phrases every traveler should know before engaging with Japanese culture.

Japan continues to rise as a destination of choice for American businesses expanding globally. Its rich history, advanced infrastructure, and thriving industries make it an ideal place to establish partnerships and grow market share. However, the language barrier can present real challenges for people accustomed to Western norms.

In this article, you’ll discover seven key Japanese words and phrases that will help you move confidently through different settings, public transit, and everyday interactions. These expressions aren’t just about communication—they’re about showing respect and building trust, a cornerstone of Japanese culture.

Phrases Covered in This Article:

• How to greet and show respect in Japanese
• Phrases that ease everyday interactions
• Tips for understanding convenience store (konbini) conversations
• Navigating public transportation with the right vocabulary
• Expressing gratitude the Japanese way

1. Sumimasen (すみません) – “Excuse me / I’m sorry”

Pronounced: soo-mee-mah-sehn

This all-purpose phrase is one of the most valuable expressions to know. Use it when you bump into someone, want to politely call a server over, or need to catch someone’s attention. In formal settings, coupling this with a respectful bow communicates humility.

2. Hai (はい) and Daijobu Desu (大丈夫です) – “Ok” and “I’m fine”

Pronounced: ha-ee and dai-joh-bu dehs

“Hai” means yes, and while “no” directly translates to “いいえ (ieh)”, it’s more polite to say “daijobu desu” when declining something. Whether you’re refusing a bag at checkout or politely turning down a refill during a meeting, using this phrase shows cultural awareness and respect.

3. Fukuro (袋) – “Bag”

Pronounced: foo-koo-ro

At Japanese convenience stores (konbini), clerks may ask, “Fukuro ni oire shimasu ka?” meaning “Would you like a bag?” Just listen for the word “fukuro” and reply with “hai” or “daijobu desu.” Knowing this one word makes checkout interactions smoother.

4. Pointo Kaado (ポイントカード) – “Point Card”

Pronounced: poin-toh kaa-doh

Frequent buyers are often asked, “Pointo kaado wa omochi desu ka?” or “Do you have a point card?” Unless you plan to become a local, a simple “daijobu desu” will suffice.

5. Atatamemasu Ka? (温めますか) – “Would you like it heated?”

Pronounced: ah-tah-tah-meh-mas kah

From bento boxes to sandwiches, many konbini items can be warmed up for you. Listen for the word “atatame” when purchasing food. You can reply with “hai” or “daijobu desu” depending on your preference.

6. Toire wa Doko Desu Ka? (トイレはどこですか) – “Where is the restroom?”

Pronounced: toy-reh wah doh-koh des kah

This phrase is essential for navigating public places. Most people will respond with a simple gesture or direction. Even knowing just this one phrase can be empowering while exploring cities like Tokyo or Osaka.

7. Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – “Thank you very much”

Pronounced: ah-ree-gah-toh go-zai-mas

Gratitude is a fundamental part of Japanese culture. Use this phrase after meetings, meals, or any interaction where someone has helped you. Dropping the formal “gozaimasu” is okay in casual situations, but including it is a safe bet for more formal environments.

For People Doing Business in Japan – Let us help you.

Mastering a few basic Japanese phrases does more than ease logistical challenges. It shows respect for the language and culture and sets the tone for a successful, respectful partnership.

Whether you’re meeting with potential partners in Kyoto or launching a global website with a Japanese audience, ensure you’re using the most accurate and culturally appropriate language.

At Interpro, we support global organizations that are preparing for international ventures with culturally sensitive, high-quality translation services.

The post 7 Essential Japanese Phrases for Traveling to Japan appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Arriving in Chicago

An American sunrise from Javiera’s hotel in Naperville, IL

An Enjoyable Welcome Lunch of Chinese Cuisine

As a welcome lunch, Interpro took me to MingHin Cuisine, a Chinese restaurant that in my eyes, was the most authentic I had ever tried.

Being a vegetarian, I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy food as much in Chicago, but the Chinese place was one of many pleasant surprises in that regard. I had Mapo Tofu with white rice, a very (to my palate) spicy plate from the province of Sichuan. And I had no idea, but the custom when you go to a Chinese restaurant is that they serve you a very warm kettle of green tea, which was much welcomed by me since the Chicago coldness (-20 degrees Celsius) was freezing my very bones.

An Italian Feast

On a Friday night my boss who is Italian, his wife and her lifelong Mexican friend took me to Maggiano’s, where we had an incredible Italian style feast. As starters we had fried zucchini (which is actually one of the veggies that I least enjoy), stuffed mushrooms and a spinach/artichoke dip; to my surprise, what I enjoyed the most was the crispy and delightful fried zucchini. For dinner I had Mushroom Ravioli, which had a nice touch of sourness to it and a very creamy sauce. For dessert I tried the Tiramisu, which I thoroughly enjoyed, it was moist, the right amount of sweet and very spongy. But I quickly learned from the Italian natives that it wasn’t exactly as they do it in Italy. Hopefully one day I’ll get to try the real thing.

Indian and Nepalese in Chicago

The only time I actually got to go to the city we had an amazing dinner at an Indian place called Chicago Curry House, a delicious Indian and Nepalese restaurant. I got to try different dishes since we decided to share, so we had Paneer Tikka Masala, Chickpea Curry, and Veggie Korma paired with different kinds of naan as well as basmati. As starter we had samosas, which were very aromatic and packed with flavor.

American Lunches

At the office we ordered sandwiches from an Italian place, I had one with provolone cheese, avocado, lettuce and pickles, very nice, with a side of Mac and Cheese, which I was very excited to try since it’s one of my favorite American foods. I also had a Red Velvet cookie, which was honestly the best I’ve ever had.

Another really good place that I randomly got to try was Cinnaholic, which we don’t have in Chile. They are basically gourmet style cinnamon rolls, with a wide variety of options for every liking. I had the Caramel Apple Pie, which had pecans, one of my favorite kind of nut. The apples in it balanced the sweetness of the cinnamon roll very well.

Almost by the end of my trip I got to try Jojo’s ShakeBAR in downtown Naperville, which had a very notorious aesthetic for their food as well as for their décor.  The milkshakes were extravagant, with fun flavors and cookies, brownies, pop cakes, ice-cream cones, classic whipped cream and lots of sprinkles. For dinner I had a grilled cheese, another American staple that I thoroughly enjoy. This one had five (!!!) different types of cheese, as well as roasted tomatoes and bacon (which I ordered without). The actual place was very beautiful, with fun little trinkets, flashy neon signs, and cool retro gaming style decorations.

Pictured Left: Cinnaholic; Pictured Right: Jojo’s ShakeBAR

Chicago is definitely a great destination for foodies, so I’d recommend doing some research and getting right to experiencing different cultures through their stunning flavors!

The post Javiera’s Journey: A Story of Cultural Exchange and Learning appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.