Corporate video content is a steadily growing part of training and communication work. Subtitling and voice-over are different disciplines, and the same text cannot be used for both. Technical constraints are as decisive here as register, and more often than not it is they that shape the text.
Transcription
First the speech has to be put into writing. The transcript carries the features of speech. This text is not used directly as subtitles.
Speaker identification
If there is more than one speaker, the distinction is kept. Names or labels are used. Mixing them up loses the viewer.
Timecodes
The start and end of each subtitle line are coded. The codes are kept and are not shifted. A shift breaks the match with the picture.
Line length
The number of characters that can appear on a line is limited. Long lines are cut off. Turkish renderings are built to this limit.
Reading speed
The time a subtitle stays on screen determines readability. A limit of characters per second is applied. If the limit is exceeded, the viewer cannot keep up.
Condensing
The spoken text may not fit into the subtitle, and it is condensed. Condensing has to preserve the meaning. Figures and names are not dropped.
Voice-over script
Text that is to be spoken aloud is written differently. The sentences are shorter and the rhythm suits speech. This text is tested by reading it aloud.
Lip sync
In some jobs the text is fitted to the mouth movements in the picture. This is a serious piece of adaptation work. It is priced as a separate item.
On-screen text
The graphics and titles in the video are translated separately. They have to be reproduced. This work is planned together with the edit.
Brand and product names
Names are not translated, and their pronunciation is indicated in the voice-over note. Wrong pronunciation affects corporate reputation. The note is added to the file.
Technical terms
Training videos are dense with terms. The term list is prepared in advance. The same rendering is used in the subtitles and the voice-over.
Numerical information
Figures are written in full in subtitles. There should be no difference between what is heard and what is read. Units are kept.
Accessibility
For deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers, sound effects are added to the subtitles as well. The rules for this type of subtitle are different. The scope is set at the outset.
File formats
Subtitle files are delivered in standard formats. The format is chosen according to the player. The wrong format prevents publication.
Quality control
Subtitles are checked by watching them together with the video. A check made on the text alone is not enough. This step is mandatory before delivery.
Meeting recordings
Recordings of internal meetings may also be translated. This content is confidential. Access is restricted and the file is not shared.
Version management
When the video is updated, the subtitles are updated too. Changed sections are tracked by timecode. A full retranslation is unnecessary.
Delivery package
The subtitle file, the transcript and the term list are delivered together. This package makes later jobs cheaper and makes it easier to translate the same video into other languages. Archiving it is in the client's interest and is stated separately in the delivery contract.