Scheduling Interpreters & Translators

Accessibility often includes interpretation (converting spoken/signed language from one language to another in real-time) and translation (converting written text) of content. Plan ahead to secure translators or interpreters and provide them with everything they might need. 

1. assess needs: Through Audience Mapping, surveys etc. learn audience needs. Create a list of content that will be used and how translation/interpretation will happen. 

2. gather resources: Learn about the skills and resources available at your organization, at any  partner organizations as well as the budget available to compensate translators. Rootid team can provide Spanish and Thai translation to/from English for our services when needed. We have also gathered the following that might be useful: DeepL Translator | Interpretation Equipment Rental | Pro Bono ASL | Linko Languages | JAV Language Solutions | Indigenous Interpreters Organization

For languages that might be considered less common, we know there is a lot of effort done around language restoration. We are gathering information around that and welcome any information you have to gain  partnerships and increase awareness.

3. schedule interpreters/translators: Review guide Guide for Interpreting in Zoom, useful even if you are not using zoom. 

Provide the following: 

Language(s): 

Tone/audience info: [for example is it formal, informal etc] and our community is [be as descriptive as possible, add ages, locations any details that you’re comfortable sharing].
Due Date/Date of event: [write out month and day]
For translation: [# of pages, title of document(s) in need of translation]
For interpretation: start time is [##:##] this  includes about 15 minutes before for setup/testing. end time [##:##] . Please let us know what tools you need but currently we have [ex zoom]

For Spanish/English Mabel will be able to interpret any chat or live notes. During the event, if you need to step away just send a message in the chat in both languages and we’ll know to pause the presentation or fill the gap.
Topics/organization information:
Cost request:

4. prepare material: Provide to translators at least 2 weeks ahead or date they’ve stated and expect requests for clarity on content. If applicable, provide editing ability and any calendar invites to any events. List below covers typical items: