Much has written by scholars on translation as product and as process, but relatively little attention has been paid to translation as a commercial service, business or industry. This article proposes a modest step in this direction by using microeconomics as a window through which to examine the industrialization of translation, focusing on causes, consequences and challenges. It begins by analyzing the outsourcing of translation and translation-related services. It then considers consequences of large-scale outsourcing, including quality uncertainty, information asymmetry, adverse selection, price pressure and perceived commoditization. Finally, the article explores challenges posed by these developments, including signaling and screening, the productivity imperative and the development of expertise. The article concludes with an overview of potential areas of research to be explored in this track in future issues.
2024. Interpreting One’s Way Through the Gig Economy: Neoliberal Shifts and the Platformisation of Interpretation Work. In Translation and Neoliberalism [New Frontiers in Translation Studies, ], ► pp. 203 ff.
2023. An Exploration of the Application of Consortium Blockchain in Translation Services Industry. Wireless Personal Communications 132:2 ► pp. 841 ff.
Kujamäki, Minna
2023. Translation as a professional service: an overview of a fragmented field of practice. Perspectives 31:2 ► pp. 331 ff.
2020. Complex collaborations. Target. International Journal of Translation Studies 32:2 ► pp. 307 ff.
Konttinen, Kalle, Outi Veivo & Pia Salo
2020. Translation students’ conceptions of translation workflow in a simulated translation company environment. The Interpreter and Translator Trainer 14:1 ► pp. 79 ff.
2019. Bridging the gap between translation and interpreting students and freelance professionals. The mentoring programme of the Professional Association of Translators and Interpreters of Catalonia. The Interpreter and Translator Trainer 13:1 ► pp. 64 ff.
This list is based on CrossRef data as of 8 november 2024. Please note that it may not be complete. Sources presented here have been supplied by the respective publishers.
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