The author gives an overview of the implementation of Systran, a large-scale machine-translation system, at the European Community. He explains how the EC has gathered terminology and "trained" its system over the years, thus effectively customizing Systran for specific types of EC documents. The case illustrates the extensive preparation involved in any MT implementation. Currently no "all- purpose" MT solution is available on the market; investment in technology and human capital for a specific use must be made.