How AI Can Support Your Translation Needs
Artificial intelligence and machine translation have changed the way organisations work with multilingual content. Used well, they can speed up projects, reduce costs and improve consistency. Used carelessly, they can introduce serious risks.
At Simpson Soft UK, we see AI as a powerful support tool — not a replacement for professional translators. The best results come from combining technology with human expertise, particularly through machine translation post-editing (MTPE), which remains a core part of our service.
What AI does well in translation
Modern machine translation systems are far more advanced than earlier tools. They can produce fluent, readable drafts in seconds, making them useful for:
Large volumes of technical or informational content
Internal documents and reports
Product listings and user-generated material
First drafts for time-sensitive projects
For this type of content, machine translation can provide a strong starting point and significantly shorten turnaround times.
However, fluency does not always mean accuracy. Neural MT output can sound like a human translation, but this is what often catches people out. A fluent output can be deceptive because it may not be a correct reflection of the source. This is why professional review remains essential.
“…the closer a machine translation is to a professional human translation, the better it is… Human translation doesn’t just set the standard — it necessarily is the standard.” — World Economic Forum
Why human review still matters
Language is about more than words. It involves context, intent, tone, and cultural understanding. These are areas where technology still falls short. Without human input, machine translation may:
Misinterpret technical or legal terminology
Miss cultural sensitivities
Use inappropriate tone
Produce subtle but serious errors
For contracts, clinical trials, medical information, regulatory documents, and brand communications, even small mistakes can have major consequences. In these cases, relying on raw machine output is simply not acceptable.
“Current MT tools are productivity enhancing as higher volumes of content can be translated within a given time… however, machine translation tools so far are not able to replicate the quality of human translations.” — Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
What is MTPE — and why it works
Machine Translation Post-Editing (MTPE) is the process of having a qualified translator review and correct machine-generated text. The translator ensures that the final version is accurate, consistent, and suitable for its purpose.
This approach offers a practical balance:
Machines provide speed
Humans provide quality control
Clients benefit from efficiency and reliability
Academic research shows that well-managed human-in-the-loop workflows can deliver excellent results when applied appropriately.
A professional workflow, not a shortcut
Effective use of AI in translation requires structure and experience. A reliable workflow typically includes:
Reviewing the content and assessing its risk level
Selecting suitable material for machine translation
Applying client-specific terminology and style rules
Post-editing by professional linguists
Running quality assurance checks
Incorporating feedback for future projects
This is not about replacing translators. It is about giving them better tools so they can work more efficiently without compromising quality.
When machine translation should not be used alone
There are many situations where full human translation remains essential, including:
Legal and compliance documents
Medical and pharmaceutical material
Marketing and branding content
Public-facing corporate communications
Creative or literary texts
In these cases, accuracy, tone and reputation matter too much to rely on automated output.
How Simpson Soft UK supports clients
At Simpson Soft UK, we tailor our approach to each client’s needs. We do not apply technology blindly. Our services include:
Content assessment and workflow planning
Professional MTPE at different quality levels
Terminology and glossary management
Consistency and quality reporting
Ongoing optimisation for recurring projects
By combining experienced linguists with carefully selected technology, we help clients achieve reliable results at a sensible cost.
MTPE is not an add-on for us. It is a key part of how we deliver modern, professional translation services.
Choosing the right approach for your business
If you are considering using AI in your translation process, we recommend:
Identifying which content is high risk and which is not
Testing sample translations before committing
Ensuring terminology is properly managed
Agreeing clear quality standards
Working with a provider who understands both language and technology
The right balance will differ from one organisation to another. What matters is having expert guidance.
In summary
AI has an important role in today’s translation industry. It improves speed and scalability and can reduce costs for suitable material. But it does not replace professional translators. The most effective approach is a combined one: machine translation supported by skilled human post-editing and quality control.
At Simpson Soft UK, we focus on making this balance work for our clients — delivering efficient, dependable translations without compromising accuracy or reputation.
If you would like us to review your content and recommend the best workflow for your needs, we would be happy to help.