A project file does not consist of text alone: drawings, calculation reports and specifications together form a whole. The part most often skipped in translation is the text inside the drawings, and this omission makes the file unusable for the counterparty.
Components of the file
Text, drawings and calculation reports sit together. The three form a whole. The scope is defined at the outset.
Text on drawings
Labels inside a drawing are a separate work item. The source file is requested. The effort is calculated separately.
The need for the source file
Without an editable drawing file the text cannot be changed. The file is requested at the start of the job. The request is made early.
Scale and dimension information
Scale statements and dimensions are carried over exactly. No conversion is made. The rule is absolute.
Units of measurement
Units are preserved and not converted to another system. If conversion is wanted, it is a separate piece of work. The limit is in writing.
References to standards
Standard numbers appear in specifications. The numbers are not changed. The basis is carried over.
Technical specifications
Specification texts carry wording that expresses obligation. The modality is preserved. There is no weakening.
Bills of materials
The lists are in table form and the cell layout is preserved. A shift shows the wrong material. A check is made.
Calculation reports
Structural and mechanical calculations are number-heavy. The fields are verified separately. A layer is added.
Building permit documents
Administrative approval documents accompany the file. The documents are formal in nature. The chain is set up separately.
Tender files
Projects are submitted as an annex to a tender. The specification gives the document list. The scope follows from it.
Projects abroad
In work abroad, the standards of the destination country apply. The term set changes. A separate list is set up.
Compliance with local standards
The destination country's standard names and abbreviations are used. The source is that country. Research is carried out.
Software and model files
Building model files may also contain text. The scope is determined at the outset. Technical preparation is needed.
Revision management
Projects change version by version. Which version was translated is recorded. Confusion is prevented.
Revision marks
Revision clouds and notes on drawings are carried over. The marks show the change. They are not skipped.
Site correspondence
During construction, correspondence flows constantly. Capacity is reserved. The flow is organised.
Progress payment and quantity survey documents
Payment documents are number-heavy. A separate check is made. The fields are verified.
Site handover documents
Handover and acceptance records close the file. The documents carry a signature and a date. The fields are checked.
The decisive role of drawing texts
In these files, even if the text is translated correctly, the file cannot be used on site when the labels inside the drawings stay in the source language; so when the scope is set, drawings are discussed as a separate item. The question is asked at the start of the job. The quote is given accordingly.
Limits of liability
What is described here is for information purposes and does not replace a technical or legal opinion. Assessment belongs to qualified engineers and architects. The limit is stated.