In this paper, Albrecht Neubert broaches the issue of translational competence. He starts by pointing out the low reputation enjoyed by most theoretical studies attempting to grasp the complexity of the translation process. The author attributes it to the reductive character of such models, and proposes his own ideas on the structure of translational competence. He distinguishes three kinds of competence: (1) language competence, (2) subject competence and (3) transfer competence, which are intricately configured into a complex whole. Differential methodologies are needed to acquire and practice these three knowledge and skill components. Adequate translations are then the result of the right configuration of the three competences. Translational equivalence cannot be achieved by any single competence. The author refers to parallel distributed processes to conceptualise translation processes. This integrated view entails the conclusion that translation studies should be interdisciplinary.