Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard aims to help providers and purchasers of language services, which includes training and assessment, interpretation, voiceovers, subtitling, translation, localization, and more.

The standard outlines basic policies, processes, procedures, and resources that language-services companies need to provide quality services to their customers, according to the committee that created the standard.

“This standard is a foundation for companies seeking certification, and in that capacity, will demonstrate the credibility of companies to deliver the services such as translation and interpreting to both private and public sectors,” says ASTM International member Susan Amarino, president of Liaison Multilingual Services, Inc. “It will provide bona fides by which purchasing agents can distinguish between legitimate and capable language companies and other purveyors of language services.”

Amarino notes that tens of billions of dollars each year are spent in the U.S. alone for language services, with growing demand from sectors including financial, legal, health care, government, and more. “It is our hope that this standard will work its way into the request-for-proposal and contracting practices.”

The new standard (soon to be published as F3130) was developed by ASTM International’s committee on language services and products (F43).

Public and private sector purchasers of language services are encouraged to join the committee.

To purchase standards, contact ASTM International customer relations (tel +1.877.909.ASTM; sales@astm.org).

To learn more about ASTM International standards for language services and products, read this fact sheet.