Words and characters are suitable for measuring the translation of text, but not every job is the translation of text. When rearranging a table, preparing a list of images or checking the format of a file is measured in these units, the effort stays invisible. The right unit is chosen according to the type of job.
Definition
The unit of work shows by which measure a piece of work is assessed. In text jobs volume is used, in others different units. The choice is made to suit the job.
Volume-based units
Words, characters and pages are suitable for the translation of text. These units provide predictability. This is the widespread usage.
Time-based units
Editing, formatting work and consultancy are assessed on the basis of time. In these jobs volume is not meaningful. The unit changes.
Piece-based units
For certificates and single-page documents a piece-based calculation may be used. This provides predictability. The preference is widespread.
Minimum unit
In very short jobs a minimum unit is applied. The preparation effort is fixed. The practice is communicated at the outset.
Lists of text in images
Text inside images is handled as a separate item. The effort of preparing the list and placing the text is separate. The unit is defined separately.
Text extraction
On scanned files retyping is a separate item. It can be assessed on the basis of time. The item is kept apart.
Layout work
Preserving the page layout requires separate effort. It is not proportional to the volume. A separate unit is used.
Terminology work
Setting up a terminology list is a separate preparation job. It is marked on the first job and low on later ones. The item is defined.
Consultancy and meetings
Kick-off meetings and consultancy time can be assessed separately. This effort is invisible but real. A definition is made.
Arrangements for rush work
Out-of-hours and accelerated work is subject to separate terms. The structure is discussed at the outset. Surprises are prevented.
Mixed jobs
One job may contain more than one unit. The items are shown separately. The total becomes transparent.
Showing the items separately
In the quote each item sits on a separate row. A single-row quote hides the calculation. Transparency is preserved.
Wrong choice of unit
An unsuitable unit makes the effort look smaller or larger than it is. Both cases strain the relationship. The choice is made with care.
Defining it in the contract
Which job will be measured in which unit is put in writing. Ambiguity leads to a dispute later. The definition is made in concrete terms.
Change of unit
The unit is not changed during the job. If a change is necessary, a new agreement is reached. The process is followed.
The client's habit
Some organisations work with a particular unit. Where this can be accommodated, it is. The preference is asked about.
Explaining the unit to the client
When an unusual unit is used, its reason is explained briefly. A unit that is not explained looks arbitrary and becomes a matter for bargaining. A short reason prevents debate.
What it is confused with
The unit of work is frequently thought to be the unit of volume only. Yet when checking the format of a file or preparing a list of text in images is measured by volume, it looks almost zero; the effort, however, is real.