ISO 17100 certified translation agency

ISO 17100 is the principal international standard specifically designed for professional translation services. It is relevant to our operations because it defines specific requirements for the entire service provision process, including human resources, translation project management, the translation workflow, independent revision, and final delivery. This standard provides a framework that helps to structure how language projects are managed, supporting consistent processes across different language pairs and document types.

A translation-specific standard

Unlike general quality management standards which apply to organisations in any sector, ISO 17100 focuses exclusively on the requirements of the translation industry. It outlines the essential qualifications for translators and revisers, emphasising that translation is a professional activity requiring specific linguistic competence and domain knowledge. Furthermore, it sets out how translation project management should follow a logical, documented path that accounts for project preparation, client communication, and final quality control.

The standard defines clear roles within the translation cycle. It acknowledges that a high-quality translation is not merely the result of linguistic skill but also depends on how the project is prepared, how terminology is researched, and how the final output is verified.

The role of independent revision

One of the most important components of the ISO 17100 standard is the requirement for revision by a professional other than the translator, when the service is provided under this workflow. This independent bilingual revision is a critical step in the quality assurance process. A second linguist, with the necessary linguistic and subject-matter competence, systematically compares the target text against the original source document.

This check is designed to identify meaning errors, mistranslations, terminology inconsistencies and register issues that might have been overlooked during the initial translation phase. By incorporating an independent review stage, the workflow adds a layer of verification that is particularly important for complex, technical, or high-risk content.

Where ISO 17100 matters most

Adhering to this standard is particularly relevant for project types where accuracy is essential to the client’s operations. These include technical manuals, legal contracts, medical documentation, financial reporting, and complex corporate communications. In these sectors, the cost of a linguistic error can be substantial, and the structured approach required by ISO 17100 helps reduce these risks.

The standard also requires that the translation agency ensures the final delivery is verified against the client's original instructions. This means confirming that the file format is correct, that all components of the source document have been addressed, and that the translation is ready for its intended professional use.

Understanding the scope and limitations

It is important to understand what the standard covers and what it does not. ISO 17100 does not automatically transform a professional translation into a sworn or legally certified document. A sworn translation derives its legal validity from the signature and official seal of a translator authorised by a specific government body, not from the adherence to a general quality standard.

Furthermore, the standard differs from ISO 18587, which is specifically designed for the full human post-editing of machine translation output. While both standards relate to quality, they govern different types of workflows. ISO 17100 remains the cornerstone for professional, human-led translation and revision processes, whereas ISO 18587 provides a framework for managing the specific requirements of edited automated translations.

Quality and professional responsibility

Our commitment to these standards reflects an operational focus rather than a guarantee of error-free results, as translation remains a human-led activity. The goal of implementing ISO 17100 is to provide a reliable, documented path for your projects, so they can include professional revision and structured project management. By following these established procedures, we aim to provide a service that is consistent and well-aligned with the requirements of our international clients.

When requesting a translation project, we can discuss whether your content requires this ISO 17100 workflow or if a different process is more appropriate for your needs. We aim to deliver professional results that support your international communication objectives.

• Professional translation services: Core translation, interpreting, certified, technical, website and multilingual services.
• Translation quality: How LinguaVox manages review, QA, terminology and ISO-certified workflows.
• Translation process: From file analysis and quote to translation, revision, QA and delivery.
• Project management: Coordination of multilingual projects, terminology, formats, deadlines and final checks.
• Languages: Professional translation in more than 150 languages and national variants.
• Industries: Sector-specific translation for life sciences, engineering, legal, finance, technology and more.

Frequently asked questions