Benefits of Understanding Translating and Transcription of Video
What does it mean when we say video translation? When is video transcription needed? People who just started making video content might have heard these two, but what do they mean exactly? In this article, we will tackle what characterizes transcription and what characterizes translation. By the time we distinguish their purpose, we will know what is the difference between Video Translation and Video Transcription.
Difference between Video Translation and Video Transcription
Translation
It refers to a method known to create subtitles for any video content. As you may know, it is a vital piece of information that makes any kind of video relevant to your target audience. When we say “create subtitles” were not just talking about a word-by-word basis. It involves a complex use of the video audio and requires fluency and professionals in the needed language. Why does it need professionals though? It’s because there are some slang and cultural differences that may offend/affect the audience when translating video content. Having a professional can give you important feedback that will keep you from creating content that will fall flat.
When translating a video, there’s no surprise when a mistake is done, that’s why let’s discuss the most common mistakes in translating.
- Poor choice of words
- Narrow deadlines
By research, these are the two most common mistakes in translating.
Poor Choice of Words
Video content can put you in a tough spot. Whenever you plan on translating your videos, make sure that you consider many things that may confuse or offend your audience. As we all know, slang and cultural differences are very common in a video; in particular movies. So, try to avoid introducing such.
Narrow Deadlines
Translating a video takes time. Businesses’ promotions videos or a series is often needed translating. That is why without enough time and careful consideration, mistakes can be made. But be careful when widening your timeframe. If it exceeds the normal amount of work that is needed it may lead to sloppy work and this particular reason may affect your budget or ROI.
So what would be the best way to avoid these common mistakes? Try considering these factors:
- Hire professionals to keep track of your progress and help you create effective ways to translate video content.
- Visualize a strategy. May it be your partner or your team, always have a concrete plan that will serve as your guide in translating.
- Make a list of the languages that are needed and determine what type of translation is needed. (voice dubbing, subtitles, etc.)
Now that you have an idea of what translation is, let’s talk about transcription.
Transcription
When we say transcription, it is the opposite way of translating video content. It refers to a method where videos or audio files are converted into a written format. The easiest way to remember the difference between Video Translation and Video Transcription is the word itself “script”. Without this method, your video will only have one way to rely on conveying information to the audience; through audiovisual/subtitles. Transcribing also helps your content be more open to some audiences that have disabilities; in particular, deaf persons. Transcription also adds the availability to have a browsable document that may help your content gain more popularity.
So why is transcription needed? How important is transcription in video content? It’s a brief question but has a wide variety of answers. So let’s discuss the possible reasons why.
It improves the SEO of your content
Making a transcript provides a significant amount of boost to your video SEO. According to Safenet.com “ A 3-week study compared the search rank for web pages with video transcripts. In less than a month, the pages with video transcripts climbed the ranks in Yahoo and Bing for a targeted keyword phrase, moving from no listing, up to 14th, then to 9th and 11th place, respectively.” So by adding video transcription, it increases the audience engagement.
It creates a more suitable user experience
When the audience has viewed your video content, it has a great chance of providing a better user experience. Why? Everyone has different kinds of perspectives. They can learn through listening or reading. That’s why adding transcription gives the audience another view/perspective on your content. Transcripts also make it easier for the audience to search keywords/topics since they are using different kinds of platforms on the internet.
It becomes flexible for the target audience
Being said in the definition of transcription. Adding one gives the availability to some audiences that have disabilities (deaf, hard-hearing, etc.). Transcripts don’t just rely on speech. It also includes gestures, laughter, and other things that may add relevance to the audience.
That being said, the two methods can be combined when the video content involves instructional information, case studies, e-Learning, and entertainment. When a document/video is being shown through global reach, transcription and translation are both needed.
Hopefully, this made your confusion dissipate, as you now know what is difference between Video Translation and Video Transcription is. You just have to remember that it is transcription when you need audio converted into written text. On the other hand, if you need to convert one language from another but have the same meaning, it is translation. So, if you plan on doing video content, make sure to use one!
