Artificial intelligence is gradually becoming part and parcel of many professional activities. The translation field is not an exception.

Tamarind Language Services loves playing a leading role in supporting our linguists adopt new technologies.

We embrace AI as the new frontier in translation. Its application spans translation, localisation, interpretation and minor sectors such as transcription.

Take the example of transcription which normally is a specialised and time-consuming activity. Linguists will first listen to sound recordings and then transcribe them into text. However, using AI pre-transcribed texts the linguists can then proofread and approve. Typical sound recordings that require transcription include for example field recordings of research interviews. In Africa, this is often done in local languages or widely spoken languages in the country or region. Kiswahili is one of the most requested languages for transcription.

In July, we embarked in a training programme for our Swahili translators who also handle our transcription projects. The group of 10 linguists learnt how AI powered tools can be used to improve the turnaround times as well as quality.

It is not the strongest who survive but those who adapt to change!