International translation standards
A good translation reads naturally, with its scope, terminology choices and checks clearly defined. Here you can explore what each standard covers and which questions to ask about your document.
Sources checked:These pages describe an approach to quality informed by publicly available standard scopes and official guidance. They do not claim ISO certification, full conformity or institutional acceptance for Metis Global. The work and responsibilities that apply to your project must be confirmed separately in the quote.
ISO 17100 and the translation quality process
ISO 17100 addresses the resources and processes required for translation services. Referring to a standard does not establish that every project meets all its requirements or that the provider is certified.
Read the guide02WIPO/PCT and EPO guidance for patent translation
Patent translation involves both translation quality processes and filing requirements. ISO 17100 provides a service framework; WIPO/PCT and EPO rules determine the language, scope and procedural requirements for the application concerned.
Read the guide03Standards for technical translation and user manuals
Technical translation considers both language accuracy and how clearly information for use is expressed. ISO translation standards address the process, while IEC/IEEE 82079-1:2019 addresses the preparation of information for use of products. They provide complementary guidance.
Read the guide04Quality in sworn translation and official documents
Accurate translation and acceptance of a document by an institution are separate matters. Quality standards exist for legal translation, while translator authorisation, oaths, notarisation and apostille requirements vary by country, institution and document.
Read the guideWhich source answers which question?
| Type of source | What it covers | What it does not establish on its own |
|---|---|---|
| ISO translation standards | Processes, competence, project specifications and evaluation | Certification for every project or acceptance of an official document |
| WIPO/PCT and EPO rules | Language, scope and procedural requirements for patent applications | Certification of a translation provider or the grant of a patent |
| IEC/IEEE 82079-1 | Preparation of information for use of products | The safety or regulatory conformity of the product described in a translation |
| Country and institution rules | Oaths, authentication, apostilles and document submission | A single procedure that applies in every country |
Four decisions your quote should make clear
- 01Scope: target country, institution, readers, language pair and source version.
- 02Resources: terminology list, reference documents and a process for queries and approval.
- 03Checks: the scope of the translator’s check, revision by a second person or specialist review.
- 04Delivery: file format, version details, outstanding queries and any certification procedures.
Frequently asked questions
01Is Metis Global ISO certified?+
This website does not claim any verified ISO certification for Metis Global. References to standards explain the proposed approach to quality and the scope of a project.
02Do these guides apply in the same way in every country?+
Quality principles can provide a shared framework. Patent office language and filing conditions, and the acceptance requirements for official documents, must still be checked for the country, institution and procedure concerned.
Your next step,
a well-planned translation.
Tell us about your document and what you need it for. We’ll work out the scope together.