Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Please use this section to find answers to our most commonly asked questions

If you are unable to find the answer you are looking for then please contact us

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Our top frequently asked questions

  1. What do I get when I order SDL Trados 2007?
  2. Do you offer persons who become SDL TRADOS Certified help in getting translation work?
  3. If I do not purchase premium software maintenance agreement (PSMA) how do I resolve technical issues?
  4. Do I have to buy an upgrade each year?
  5. What does Certification mean and do I really need it?
  6. Where and how can I purchase premium software maintenance on your web site?
  7. What are system requirements of SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance?
  8. Can there be more than one instance of SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance running on the same network, at the same time?

What is included in SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance?
SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance includes the following applications: SDLX 2007, SDL Trados Translators Workbench 8.0, SDL Synergy 2007 Client, SDL MultiTerm 2007, SDL Trados WinAlign, SDL Passolo Essential, SDL Trados TagEditor and Filters.

Do you offer persons who become SDL TRADOS Certified help in getting translation work?

The SDL TRADOS Certification program has been developed with the aim of helping freelance translators achieve their professional development and career advancement goals. Additionally, all major translation community websites such as Proz.com, Aquarius, TRADUguide, have recognized the importance of technology certification, alongside linguistic credentials, and have added fields to display SDL TRADOS Certification in their translator’s profile areas. Search results from these websites have shown that outsourcers actively look for individuals who have the SDL TRADOS Certification credential as a means of validating their level of expertize in the world's leading translation technology tools.

If I do not purchase a premium software maintenance agreement (PSMA,) how do I resolve technical issues?
If you choose not to purchase a PSMA then you will be able to receive technical assistance by logging into your SDL account, visiting the "My Support" area and searching for answers in the SDL Trados Knowledge Base. If you have a licensing and installation issue you can navigate through the solution finder to resolve any problems.

Do I have to buy an upgrade each year?

If you own a premium software maintenance agreement (PSMA), then you will automatically receive free upgrades as soon as new versions of your SDL Trados products are released. If you do not own a PSMA, then we recommend that you upgrade your software regularly so you can benefit from new features to increase efficiency and quality of your translation projects,.

What does SDL TRADOS Certification mean and do I really need it?
SDL TRADOS Certification is the industry’s premier technology-based professional education program, which provides a recognized standard of excellence in SDL Trados software knowledge. It is designed to develop and validate expertize in the use of SDL Trados translation technology tools.

Where and how can I purchase a premium software maintenance agreement (PSMA) on your web site?

It is not currently possible to purchase a PSMA online.  You can however purchase a PSMA by contacting one of our Contracts and Renewals Executives by telephone on +44 (0)1628 416338 or by email.

What are system requirements of SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance?

SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance runs on Windows Vista, Windows XP and Windows 2000. Windows Vista 32-bit or Windows XP is recommended for optimum performance. PC with Pentium IV or compatible processor 512 MB RAM (1 GB recommended).

To run SDL Trados 2007 on a 64-bit operating system, you will need to upgrade your current version of the software to SDL Trados 2007 Suite (build 863).

To clarify, the following SDL applications will run on a 64-bit operating system in 32-bit mode:

  • Translator's Workbench
  • TagEditor
  • Synergy
  • WinAlign T-Window for Clipboard

Please note that SDL MultiTerm is still not fully compatible with 64-bit operating systems and some users may experience problems installing or running SDL MultiTerm on a 64-bit operating system. We are currently working on a version of SDL MultiTerm which will be compatible on a 64-bit operating system.

You can check the exact build of your software by opening the application and select Help > About.

Can there be more than one instance of SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance running on the same network, at the same time?

SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance is designed to work in an individual computer environment and it will operate on any network. However, you will only be able to operate one instance of SDL Trados 2007 Freelance on the same network, at the same time. The second instance of SDL Trados 2007 Freelance on the same network will always run in demo mode.

If you require more than one instance of SDL Trados 2007 Suite running on a network at the same time, you should buy SDL Trados 2007 Suite Professional.

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Product related frequently asked questions

  1. What is translation memory?
  2. What is terminology management?
  3. What is Computer Assisted Translation (CAT)?
  4. What is automated translation?
  5. What are SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance's system requirements?
  6. Does SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance work on a Macintosh?
  7. What are the differences between Translator’s Workbench and SDLX?
  8. How many languages does the software handle?
  9. Why do I require SDL Trados software?
  10. Can you open Wordfast memory with SDL Trados software? Can you combine the memory from SDL Trados and Wordfast to form a larger SDL Trados memory?
  11. Do I need to upgrade Trados 5.5 to open and work on Framemaker 8 files?
  12. How many separate installations does one licence allow?
  13. What are the differences between SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance and SDL Trados 2007 Suite Professional?

What is a translation memory?
A translation memory (TM) is a linguistic database that continually captures your translations as your work for future use. All previous translations are accumulated within the translation memory (in source and target language pairs called translation units) and reused so that you never have to translate the same sentence twice. The more you build up your translation memory, the faster you can translate subsequent translations, enabling you to take on more projects and increase your revenue.

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What is terminology management?
Terminology is the foundation of all communication. At its most basic level it is the study and ultimately usage of words or phrases that have a particular meaning, these words or phrases are referred to as terms. Terminology is growing in importance as terms are becoming increasingly adopted by organizations to describe a company, product, service or even a unique selling point.

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What is Computer Assisted Translation (CAT)?
Computer Assisted Translation is the technology, such as a translation memory or termbase, used to support a human translator to translate files. CAT tools can be used to ensure speed, quality and consistency during the translation process.

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What is automated translation? 
Automated translation utilizes machine technology to instantly provide a translation. SDL Trados 2007 Suite integrates automated translation with translation memory and terminology management, saving considerable costs.

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What are SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance’s system requirements?
SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance runs on Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000 and Windows 2003 Server. Windows Vista or Windows XP is recommended for optimum performance. PC with Pentium III or compatible processor (Pentium IV or higher recommended). 512 MB RAM (1 GB recommended) on Windows 2000/Windows XP Home/Windows XP Professional/Windows Vista.

To run SDL Trados 2007 on a 64-bit operating system, you will need to upgrade your current version of the software to SDL Trados 2007 Suite (863).

To clarify, the following SDL applications will run on a 64-bit operating system in 32-bit mode: 

  • Translator's Workbench
  • TagEditor
  • Synergy
  • WinAlign T-Window for Clipboard 

Please note that SDL MultiTerm is still not fully compatible with 64-bit operating systems and some users may experience problems installing or running SDL MultiTerm on a 64-bit operating system. We are currently working on a version of SDL MultiTerm which will be compatible on a 64-bit operating system.

You can check the exact build of your software by opening the application and select Help > About.

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Does SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance work on a Macintosh?
Although SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance does not officially support Macintosh, we have had many success stories from MAC OS X users, especially with our soft key feature!

Here is how it works:

  • After receiving your soft key (aka license file) and installing it with Virtual PC, the application should run smoothly.
  • Make sure you download your SDL Trados TM application directly into the PC surface (do not take the detour via the Mac surface) and unzip it with WinZip only!

We invite you to order SDL Trados TM and try it on your MAC OS X. If you find it does not work for you, remember you can return it for a full refund.

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What are the differences between SDLX and Translator’s Workbench?
SDLX and Translator’s Workbench are the two different translation environments that are included within SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance. Both will allow you to create, edit and maintain your translation memories – so you can choose which environment you would prefer to work in!

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How many languages does SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance handle?
With SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance, you can work with up to 5 different languages of your choice. Follow the link for a list of languages available.

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Why do I require SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance?
SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance is designed to accelerate the translation process, increasing your productivity and revenue! It also has automated quality checks, helping you to ensure your translations are of the highest standard and win more business!

Find out more about why you should buy SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance.
Try SDL Trados 2007 Freelance ROI Calculator and find out how much a translation memory would be worth to you!

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Can you open a Wordfast translation memory with SDL Trados software? Can you combine translation memories from Wordfast and SDL Trados to create a larger translation memory with SDL Trados 2007 Freelance?
You can open a Wordfast translation memory using SDL Trados software via TMX (Translation Memory Exchange). SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance supports TMX level 1.4b, the latest standard of TMX. In order to combine your Wordfast and SDL Trados translation memories, you will need to export your Wordfast translation memories into TMX format and then import them into your new or existing file within SDL Trados 2007 Freelance.

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Do I need to upgrade Trados 5.6 to open and work on Framemaker 8 files?
In order to work with Adobe FrameMaker 8.0 you will need to have at least SDL Trados 2007 Service Pack 2 (SP2) installed.

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How many separate installations does one license allow?
You can install SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance on more than one computer, as long as you do not run both versions at the same time.

In order to change your license from one computer to another you will need to return the license ‘activation’ code on the computer where the software is currently installed, before reactivating it on another computer. Please follow the instructions below to complete this process:

Finding your activation code:
1. Visit: https://oos.sdl.com/asp/products/ssl/account/default.asp
2. Login to your account
3. Go to "My Licenses"
4. You will see your new SDL Trados 2007 Suite activation code in the "My Product Activation Codes" section.
5. Please copy your Activation Code in to your clipboard (Highlight and select CTRL C)

Returning your activation code:
1. Select Start -> All Programs -> SDL International -> SDL Trados 2007 -> License Manager
2. Click “View Activated Licenses”
3. Select the license you wish to return and click “Return License”
4. When the license has been returned select “OK” then select “Close”

Activating your license on another computer:
1. If you haven’t already downloaded SDL Trados 2007 onto the computer, please do so via your account https://oos.sdl.com/asp/products/ssl/account/default.asp
2. Select Start -> All Programs -> SDL International -> SDL Trados 2007 -> License Manager
3. Click “Activate Online”
4. Enter your new Activation Code and select “Next”
5. Your software is now activated on your computer.

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What are the differences between SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance and SDL Trados 2007 Suite Professional?
SDL Trados 2007 Suite is available in two different versions, Freelance and Professional. The reason behind this is because freelance translators do not usually require all the functionality within the full professional license - and this is reflected in the price of the software.

Here is a list of restrictions in SDL Trados 2007 Suite Freelance:

  • Translation memories (TMs) can be only opened in exclusive mode, meaning that TMs cannot be shared on a LAN. Related to this, Translator's Workbench Freelance can be started on one computer only in a network. A second instance cannot be opened.
  • Users of Freelance can choose up to a maximum of five source and target languages in Translator's Workbench, WinAlign and Synergy Freelance.
  • The Create Project TM option is not available in the Freelance version of Translator's Workbench. Likewise, in Synergy Freelance, the Create Project Package feature is not available.
  • Monolingual translation memories (same source and target language) cannot be created in Freelance.
  • WinAlign: WinAlign can align up to a maximum of 10 file pairs.
  • No SDL PerfectMatch™ included (but files processed by SDL PerfectMatch in the Professional version
  • can be opened and worked on).
  • No Software Development Kit

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Buying frequently asked questions


What happens when I order SDL TRADOS software from Translationzone?
Once you have created an account for yourself in our Online Order System and paid for your software with your credit card, you will receive an email from SDL informing you on how to download the software and where to find your activation key to license your software.

What payment methods do you accept at Translationzone for my product purchases and upgrades? Can I pay for my software in instalments?
Unfortunately you cannot pay for your software in instalments but you can pay for it using a credit card – American Express, Visa or Mastercard and with Switch/Maestro cards. A further method of payment that is available is via bank wire transfer. Please note that if you choose to pay by bank transfer the software will be available for download, however you will receive your license after the money has reached our account, this could take up to 7 working days. Where as with credit card payments the licenses are instantly available.

Can the software be returned if not suitable or I am unhappy with it?
The only time software can be returned is if it doesn’t work in your Mac environment otherwise we will give you technical assistance in setting the software up correctly so that it will work in your environment.

How do I place an order for a Certification Starter Pack?
To place an order for the Certification Starter Pack please go to the page and decide if you wish to order the training in either SDLX or Workbench. Once you have selected the package you wish to purchase then simply follow the link through to the Online Order page.

How do I order a Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA)?
You can order software maintenance when you first purchase your product online or you can call the Product Sales Team on +44 1628 416320 and they can take your order by telephone.

Is the Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA) an annual fee?
Yes it is an annual fee.

What is the cost of the Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA)?
The PSMA is charged at 20% of the full list price of the products you purchase.

How do I buy from the web?
Please go to the products and select the one you wish to purchase, click on the buy now button and select any training or other products that you may wish to buy then proceed to check out. If you are a returning customer you’ll be asked for your email address and password to login to your account, if you’re a new customer you will be asked to create an account for yourself. Once this has been done you will be asked if you wish to place your order and what method of payment you wish to use. When you have paid for your software you will be taken to a page where all the information will be displayed on how to download and activate your license

If you do not find the answer to your question then please contact us for help.

 

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Support frequently asked questions

  1. Is the Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA) an annual fee?
  2. What is the cost of a Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA)?
  3. After reformatting our computers SDL Trados 2007 was deleted, how do we re-install?
  4. How do I retrieve my lic.file from the old computer?
  5. Where can I get help with my installation and licensing?
  6. Why doesn’t SDL MultiTerm 2007 Extract not work?
  7. What countries provide support?
  8. If I have a Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA), will I get telephone support?
  9. Where can I find information about how to use the Support portal?
  10. I am interested in understanding more about your products
  11. Where can I find more information on SDL Trados training?  

Is the Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA) an annual fee?
The Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA) is an annual contract that shall be renewed automatically unless we have been notified otherwise by a customer prior to the renewal date.

[Back to top]What is the cost of the Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA)?
The cost of the PSMA package depends on the level and the number of licenses that a customer currently has using. You can choose the level of support that best fits your needs. For more information on the choice of PSMA please visit here.

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After reformatting our computers SDL Trados 2007 was deleted, how do we re-install?
You will need to go to your account area at: https://oos.sdl.com/asp/products/ssl/account/default.asp

Log in with your username and password and select “Go to My Downloads”

You should see your SDL Trados 2007 in your Downloads area. If you have any problems accessing your software please Select “My Support” and go to the Installation and Licensing area and follow the steps of our Solution Finder "Download & Installation Problems".

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How do I retrieve my lic.file from the old computer?
Please go to the following and log your request: https://oos.sdl.com/asp/products/ssl/account/default.asp

Login with user name (this is usually your email address) and enter your password:

Select: “Go To My Support »”

Under: Licensing and Installation Help
Select: “Go »”

Go to end of page and select “Start”

At the top of the page, select “Solution Finder”

From the left hand side of the page select what you need help on, for instance, “Licensing Problems”

Answer the questions and select “Next”

If you haven’t found your answer, please fill in the form and select “Submit Query”

A support engineer will get back to you with help on installation and licensing.

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Where can I get help with my installation and licensing?
Please go to the following and log your request: https://oos.sdl.com/asp/products/ssl/account/default.asp

Login with user name (this is usually your email address) and enter your password:

Select: “Go To My Support »” Under: Licensing and Installation Help, Select: “Go »”

Select: “Go To My Support »”

Under: Licensing and Installation Help
Select: “Go »”

Go to end of page and select “Start”

At the top of the page, select “Solution Finder”

From the left hand side of the page select what you need help on, for instance, “Licensing Problems”

Answer the questions and select “Next”

If you haven’t found your answer, please fill in the form and select “Submit Query”

A support engineer will get back to you with help on installation and licensing.

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Why does SDL MultiTerm 2007 Extract not work?
When you purchase SDL MultiTerm 2007, SDL MultiTerm Extract is automatically installed with it. However, this is a separate product that has its own license. If you did not purchase SDL MultiTerm Extract it will only run in demo mode.

If you would like to purchase SDL MultiTerm Extract please go to our shop

Follow the link for more information on SDL MultiTerm Extract.

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What countries provide support?
The following countries provide support through our offices:
England, Germany, Belgium, USA, Japan and China. You can log your cases in English, German, French, Dutch, Japanese or Chinese. Please note that the choice of language may influence our response time.

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If I have a Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA), will I get telephone support
Yes, if you have a Premium Software Maintenance Agreement (PSMA) you will have access to telephone support, however, before you call in please log a case on the support center. The hotline telephone support is manned from 9.00am - 5.00pm in each local office that provides support. You can find the numbers in the list displayed when you open one of your open or closed cases in the Support portal.

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Where can I find information about how to use the Support portal?
You can download our Customer Guide to SDL Technologies Support on our support portal.

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I am interested in understanding more about your products
We organise free webinars about various topics that might be of interest to you. The agenda is published on our events calendar.

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Where can I find more information on SDL Trados training?
Visit our training area for current information or for further information email producttraining@sdl.com

If you require further information regarding support please visit http://talisma.sdl.com/index.aspx?t=faq 

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Training FAQ's

  1. How much does both on-line and on-site training cost?
  2. What is the difference between onsite and online training?
  3. Where is the onsite training being delivered?
  4. How is the online training being delivered, in which language, is it interactive, who is the caller?
  5. What is the duration and workflow of the online training?
  6. How can SDL TRADOS Certification help me win business?
  7. Do I need to be trained in SDLX and Translator’s Workbench to be Certified?
  8. What languages is the Certification training delivered in?

How much does both on-line and on-site training cost?
To find out more details on pricing for the various Training courses and delivery types we offer please see our Training Pricelist

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What is the difference between onsite and online training?
Onsite training is hands on, classroom based and is delivered at one of our SDL or Authorised Training Centre facilities or at a customers own choosen site.
Online training is live, non-interactive, WebEx based training delivered over the internet at an agreed time and duration. We see this as a valuable primer to hands on classroom based training.

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Where is the onsite training being delivered?
Onsite training is delivered at one of our SDL or Authorised Training Centre facilities or at a customers own choosen site

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How is the online training being delivered, in which language, is it interactive, who is the caller?
Online training can be delivered in the following languages, some of which are available on a public, schedule of course dates, some of which can be delivered on a request only basis.  See the online course schedule for further information on this.  The training is not interactive but is delivered live with the ability to ask questions at the end of the session.  The online training sessions are delivered by an Authorised SDL Trainer.

Languages delivered in: English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Dutch, Chinese (simplified), Greek, Russian, Portugese, Romanian, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Bulgarian, Egyptian, Turkish, Catalan.

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What is the duration and workflow of the online training?
The duration of our online courses is 3 hours. The workflow is a detailed in the individual course outlines

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How can SDL TRADOS Certification help me win business?

For freelance translators:

The SDL TRADOS Certification program has been developed with the aim of helping freelance translators achieve their professional development and career advancement goals. Additionally, all major translation community websites such as Proz.com, Aquarius, TRADUguide, have recognised the importance of technology Certification alongside linguistic credentials and have added fields to display SDL TRADOS Certification in their translator’s profile area. Search results from these websites have shown that outsourcers actively look for persons who have the SDL TRADOS Certification credential as a means of validating their level of expertise in the worlds leading translation technology tools.

For translation companies:

Translation companies around the world have shown great interest in the SDL TRADOS Certification program as they can see the benefits of ensuring a level of competency in translation software for themselves. Currently there are over 200 Language Service Providers around the world who have embraced the program. Additionally most  of these companies are using the SDL TRADOS Certification as a  way to add value and attract more business, by differentiating themselves from the competition and actively demonstrating to their clients how they can leverage the efficiencies in the technology to their benefit.

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Do I need to be trained in SDLX and Translator’s Workbench to be Certified?
There are several ways prepare for SDL TRADOS Certification and definetely the best reccomended option includes training for the tranlsation tool of your choice either SDLX or Translator's Workbench. In fact according to SDL Training figures over 93% of the tranlsators adn project managers that attended one of our training session passed their Certification exam on the first attempt. To find out more about the different training options available to suit your particular needs please visit our training page.

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What languages is the Certification training delivered in?
Certification training is delivered in French, German, English, Japanese and Chinese (simplified)

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Certification FAQ's

  1. What is SDL TRADOS Certification?
  2. Do I need to be SDL TRADOS Certified to accept project work?
  3. What is the process to become SDL TRADOS Certified?
  4. How long will it take to become SDL TRADOS Certified?
  5. Where can I find out more information on SDL TRADOS Certification?
  6. How much does SDL TRADOS Certification cost?
  7. How long do I have after I have purchased the exams to take the tests?
  8. Do I need to renew my SDL TRADOS Certification when new versions of the software are released?
  9. What happens when I successfully pass the Level 1 or Level 2 exams of the SDL TRADOS Certification? 
  10. Do I need to pass both the SDLX and Translators Workbench exams to become SDL TRADOS Certified?
  11. I am currently SDL TRADOS Certified for the SDL Trados 2006 option. What do I have to do to upgrade my Certification?
  12. I am going through Certification for SDL Trados 2006, how does this affect me?


What is SDL TRADOS Certification?
The SDL TRADOS Certification Program is the industry’s premier technology based certification which provides a recognized standard of excellence in SDL Trados software knowledge. It’s a comprehensive professional education program designed to develop and validate expertise in the use of SDL Trados translation technology tools.

The Certification has been designed to help educate the translator community on the latest technological developments and best practices in translation technology, terminology management and automated quality assurance checks. As a result, Certification greatly increases derived efficiencies from the use of SDL Trados software and ensures the automation and time saving features available in the technology are applied. Additionally, the SDL TRADOS Certification helps increase quality of translation project by reducing human error and helps individuals achieve their personal development goals.

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Do I need to be SDL TRADOS Certified to accept project work?
Absolutely not, however holding the credential proves your level of expertise in the translation technology and will make you more interesting to a potential employer.

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What is the process to become SDL TRADOS Certified?
The process for becoming Certified is simple:

1. Take the online placement exam to determine your current level of expertise
2. The placement exam will suggest a level based on your results (Getting Started leading to Level 1 Certification, Intermediate leading to Level 2 Certification or Advanced leading to SDL TRADOS Certified or Level 3 Certification)
3. Based on your results you have the option to download courseware, take a training course, or move straight to the exams for the level itself
4. You move up the Certification ladder by mastering each level
5. Once you have passed Level 3, you will be an official SDL TRADOS Certified user. Certified offers you your own your own webpage, a logo, significant discounts on future software and services, and a listing on our website.  

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How long will it take to become SDL TRADOS Certified?
This depends largely on your current experience in using SDL TRADOS technology. Some translators and project managers pass on the first try, and others who are just starting with the software prefer to take training courses (online or onsite Certification training) or simply download our courseware to prepare themselves for the exams. To find out more about our Certification training options to prepare you for the exams please click here: Certification Training

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Where can I find out more information on SDL TRADOS Certification?
SDL TRADOS Certification is sweeping the translation industry as headline news, largely because it is the first technology certification ever created to support the global translation supply chain. You can find more information on the news and endorsements section of this website or by downloading one of our whitepapers.

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How much does SDL TRADOS Certification cost?
That depends on your current level of translation technology expertise. If you have been using technology for a while, then the amount of time you have invested in yourself is considerable and you should be able to advance quickly through the stages of SDL TRADOS Certification. If you are new to translation technology, you will of course need to study the courseware, take the training sessions and work towards earning your Certification. The placement exam is free of charge. The Level 1 and Level 2 exams are both priced at $49 each. The Level 3 exam is priced at $199. If you are interested to see where you fit, take the placement exam  to find out more.

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How long do I have after I have purchased the exams to take the tests?
There is no time limit for you to become SDL TRADOS Certified. Many translators and project managers are currently working through the steps of certification, and will become the first to be more employable because of their skills. If you would like to find out more on how to prepare for SDL TRADOS Certification, please visit our Certification Training page or contact us to find out more.

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Do I need to renew my SDL TRADOS Certification when new versions of the software are released?
Yes, your SDL TRADOS Certification is specific to the version of SDL Trados 2007 and is valid for 60 days after a new exam is published for any new product version release. SDL TRADOS will email you with the details of new exams as well as a reminder of when your Certification is due for renewal.

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What happens when I successfully pass the Level 1 or Level 2 exams of the SDL TRADOS Certification?
You will have achieved Certification for your respective level upon successful completion of the online exams, for example, successful completion of the Level 1 exam will issue Level 1 certification, with an associated Certification card and web page. Your status as a SDL TRADOS Certified translation professional is awarded upon successful completion of the Level 3 exam.  

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Do I need to pass both the SDLX and Translators Workbench exams to become SDL TRADOS Certified?
SDL Trados 2007 has two components: The Translator's Workbench (Trados) component and the SDLX component. You can choose to certify on either component or both if you wish.

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I am currently SDL TRADOS Certified for the SDL Trados 2006 option. What do I have to do to upgrade my Certification?
We have endeavoured to make the transition to the new version as easy and quick as possible. You will find that your account has automatically been updated with everything you  need to update your Certfication process to the SDL Trados 2007 product. When you log back into your account you will find an “upgrade exam” and free self-running training tutorial focusing on the new features and functionality of SDL Trados 2007. The exam and online tutorials are concise and very simple to go through, focusing only on what’s new in SDL Trados 2007.

When you successfully pass the upgrade exam you will upgrade your Certification to the 2007 version.

The upgrade is delivered free of charge and will take place automatically in your account

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I am currently going through Certification for SDL Trados 2006, how does this affect me?
We have endeavoured to make the transition to the new version as quick and as easy as possible. Your account will automatically be updated with everything you need to upgrade your Certfication status to the SDL Trados 2007 product. When you log into your account, you will find an “upgrade exam” and free self-running training tutorials focusing on the new features and functionality of SDL Trados 2007. The exam and online tutorials are concise and very simple to follow, focusing only on what’s new in SDL Trados 2007. This way you can easily upgrade your Certification to the SDL Trados 2007 version.

This upgrade is delivered free of charge and will appear automatically in your account.

Additionally, now you have the possibility to receive a Level 1 or Level 2 Certification upon successful completion of the Getting Started (Level 1) and Intermediate (Level 2) Certification exams.

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How much does both on-line and on-site training cost?
To find out more details on pricing for the various Training courses and delivery types we offer please see our Training Pricelist

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What is the difference between onsite and online training?
Onsite training is hands on, classroom based and is delivered at one of our SDL or Authorised Training Centre facilities or at a customers own choosen site
Online training is live, non-interactive, WebEx based training delivered over the internet at an agreed time and duration. We see this as a valuable primer to hands on classroom based training.

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Where is the onsite training being delivered?
Onsite training is delivered at one of our SDL or Authorised Training Centre facilities or at a customers own choosen site

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How is the online training being delivered, in which language, is it interactive, who is the caller?
Online training can be delivered in the following languages, some of which are available on a public, schedule of course dates, some of which can be delivered on a request only basis.  See the online course schedule for further information on this.  The training is not interactive but is delivered live with the ability to ask questions at the end of the session.  The online training sessions are delivered by an Authorised SDL Trainer.

Languages delivered in: English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Dutch, Chinese (simplified), Greek, Russian, Portugese, Romanian, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Bulgarian, Egyptian, Turkish, Catalan.

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What is the duration and workflow of the online training?
The duration of our online courses is 3 hours. The workflow is a detailed in the individual course outlines

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How can SDL TRADOS Certification help me win business?

For freelance translators:

The SDL TRADOS Certification program has been developed with the aim of helping freelance translators achieve their professional development and career advancement goals. Additionally, all major translation community websites such as Proz.com, Aquarius, TRADUguide, have recognised the importance of technology Certification alongside linguistic credentials and have added fields to display SDL TRADOS Certification in their translator’s profile area. Search results from these websites have shown that outsourcers actively look for persons who have the SDL TRADOS Certification credential as a means of validating their level of expertise in the worlds leading translation technology tools.

For translation companies:

Translation companies around the world have shown great interest in the SDL TRADOS Certification program as they can see the benefits of ensuring a level of competency in translation software for themselves. Currently there are over 200 Language Service Providers around the world who have embraced the program. Additionally most  of these companies are using the SDL TRADOS Certification as a  way to add value and attract more business, by differentiating themselves from the competition and actively demonstrating to their clients how they can leverage the efficiencies in the technology to their benefit.

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Do I need to be trained in SDLX and Translator’s Workbench to be Certified?
There are several ways prepare for SDL TRADOS Certification and definetely the best reccomended option includes training for the tranlsation tool of your choice either SDLX or Translator's Workbench. In fact according to SDL Training figures over 93% of the tranlsators adn project managers that attended one of our training session passed their Certification exam on the first attempt. To find out more about the different training options available to suit your particular needs please visit our training page.

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What languages is the Certification training delivered in?
Certification training is delivered in French, German, English, Japanese and Chinese (simplified)

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General frequently asked questions

  1. What does Translationzone offer?
  2. Should I have a profile on Translationzone.com?
  3. What is the difference between my Translationzone profile and my SDL TRADOS account at the Customer Center?
  4. How do I update my profile on the directory?
  5. How do I update my details in my Account?
  6. How can SDL TRADOS help me win business?
  7. Where can I find my SDL TRADOS User Manuals?
  8. Can webinars be run at varying times of the day to suit the US? (and other countries)?

What does Translationzone offer?
Translationzone.com is a one-stop site for all freelancer translators looking to find out more about SDL TRADOS products, SDL TRADOS Certification and training and support. The site also offers free downloads and work via the Translator's Directory.

Should I have a profile on Translationzone.com?
Translationzone.com features our 'Find a Translator' database, which can prove to be an invaluable business resource freelance translators. Many people such as service providers and corporations search this database looking for translators. If you are listed on our free directory, they can find you and contact you for your services. Translationzone.com's 'Translator Database' can showcase your skills and qualifications, and thus help improve your visibility and increase your business.

What is the difference between my Translationzone profile and my SDL TRADOS account at the Customer Center?
Your Translationzone profile is essentially a description of your skills, Certification status, expertise and qualifications as a professional translator, posted to our online database of freelance translators. One of the many benefits of being an SDL Trados customer is that you can promote and showcase your skills on our Translationzone website to help increase your visibility and boost your business. Your SDL TRADOS account at the Customer Center is where you download SDL Trados software, updates, upgrades, patches, softkey licenses, etc. You also have seperate log in details for the Translationzone directory and the account at the Customer Center.

How do I update my profile on the directory?
To update the details in your profile for the Translator's Database you will need to log in to your profile here. Once you have logged in you will be able to add/update your details by selecting edit by each section. If you have any problems with the profile you can contact us at info@translationzone.com

How do I update my details in my Account?
To update the details in your "account" area you will need to log in here. Once you have logged in to the Customer Center you will see your account summary page and on the left you will be able to update/edit the "my details area" and "change my password" sections.

How can SDL TRADOS help me win business?
Many service providers and corporations prefer to use SDL TRADOS enabled freelancers. Having SDL TRADOS software can ensure you are compatible with these organizations, which greatly improves your chances of winning business with them.

Where can I find my SDL TRADOS User Manuals?
You can find softcopy versions of your user manuals in several places. All user documentation is included (in Acrobat PDF format) when you download your software from the Customer Center. You can also find user documentation on Translationzone at our download section, along with updates, demos and tutorials. You can also purchase printed material packs directly from Translationzone.

Can webinars be run at varying times of the day to suit the US? (and other countries)
SDL TRADOS aims to run webinars at different times of the day to try to reach as many countries as possible, however should the times not be suitable for your area or you are unable to attend a webinar of interest then you may be able to download the recorded version from our webinar recordings section which can be found under our downloads area.

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