In the fast-paced world of the translation and localisation industry, efficiency is the key to success. One solution that can play an important role in delivering this efficiency is the Common Translation Interface (COTI) standard, particularly in its highly developed form – COTI Level 3. But what exactly does this standard entail and how can it speed up translation processes?

What is the COTI standard?

The Common Translation Interface (COTI) standard was developed specifically for the translation and localisation industry to improve interoperability between different software tools and systems. The COTI standard defines a manufacturer-independent format for exchanging data between translation memory systems (TMS) and editorial systems, such as content management systems (CMS) and other tools used in the industry.

Higher COTI level, more automation

COTI levels build on each other and offer varying degrees of integration and automation:

• Level 1 – core features: Translation data is saved in a defined structure, compressed as a ZIP file with the extension .coti and enhanced with meta information. The data is transferred manually, but the meta information and fixed structure make it easy for the receiving system to interpret the packets.
• Level 2 – extended features: At this level, the transfer of COTI data packets becomes automated. The editorial system generates a package that is automatically recognised and imported by a TMS as soon as it is placed in a shared transfer folder (hotfolder) that is constantly monitored. Meta information enables the receiving system to create an automated order system, for example.
• Level 3 – expert features: The highest level of integration offers fully automated data transfer between the systems. This removes the need to create or monitor packages manually. Instead, translation data and meta information is transferred via an API between the editing system and the TMS. Not only translation data, but also status information such as translation progress can be transmitted.

 

Benefits of full automation with COTI Level 3

The implementation of COTI Level 3 brings with it several benefits that can dramatically improve the translation process:

• Fast data transfer: Thanks to the fully automated API, translation data is transferred seamlessly between systems without any delay.
• Increased efficiency: Large and complex translation projects can be processed more efficiently, since the workflow no longer has to include any manual steps.
• Round-the-clock operation: Automation facilitates continuous operation without human intervention, resulting in round-the-clock availability of translation data.
• Security: By eliminating manual steps, the risk of human error is minimised, which in turn ensures data transfer is more secure.
• Time and cost savings: Full automation leads to significant time savings, while also reducing the operational effort and costs involved in translation projects.

Conclusion

The introduction of COTI Level 3 signalled a major advancement in the translation industry; one which not only increases efficiency, but also improves the quality and reliability of translation processes. Through seamless integration and automated data transfer, companies are able to expand their global reach while also saving time and resources.

The following editorial systems can currently use COTI packages of various levels:

• • Schema ST4 – Quanos

• • TIM – Fischer

• • COSIMA – DOCUFY

• • docuglobe und XR – gds

• • Smart Media Creator – EC Systems

• • AEM – Adobe

• • GRIPS – STAR

• • and much more besides

 

With our translation memory system STAR Transit ^NXT; and our workflow solution STAR CLM, we provide links at all three levels – in order to transfer data efficiently, securely and quickly and to speed up translation processes.

We process your COTI packages automatically using STAR CLM! 

Contact us for tailored advice

Large language models (LLMs) could prove to be valuable assets for linguists in the context of language processes.
But what exactly are the advantages of this technology?

Our MT expert Julian Hamm will address this and other important questions in the context of the “LLM Use Cases in Language Services” TechTalk by lingo systems and provide insights into the world of language technologies and CAT tool development.
Curious to learn more?

STAR and lingo systems invite you to a free TechTalk

Secure your free ticket today and follow the discussion on 13^th March from 3.00 to 4.30 pm CET. The TechTalk will be held in English.

We would be delighted to have you join us!

 

Few words have characterised the year 2023 as much as “AI”.
But what does this buzzword actually mean for translation and language processes? Has the time now come for the relatively new technology of neural machine translation (NMT) to take a step back, and for large language models (LLMs) to take centre stage?

Are you still typing or are you already prompting?

How does this change the way that professional translators work?
A human at the helm, AI as the co-pilot. But what exactly could this look like in day-to-day translation?
This will be the focus of our hour-long webinar.

Opportunities and challenges of large language models

Specifically, this involves the question of how these new language technologies can be used to optimise core processes in the translation industry, including quality assurance, post-editing and terminology management. 

In addition to discovering a strategic approach to prompt engineering , you will also, through a series of practical examples, learn how CAT tools must be set up in the future in order to optimally support language experts in their work.
Prior knowledge: Basic knowledge of CAT tools and machine translation

MT expertise from STAR

The speaker, Julian Hamm, who holds a masters in translation, has been working in the language services since 2018. In his role as Machine Translation Consultant at STAR Deutschland GmbH, he coordinates the implementation of MT-based workflows and delivers expert advise, both within STAR and to external clients, on the exciting topics of MT and language technologies.

Humans at the helm, AI as the co-pilot – curious to see what the future holds? Book your place for the tekom webinar under Veranstaltungen (tekom.de) and get on board on 14th March 2024 at 4.30 p.m. (CET). Please note that this webinar will be held in German only.

See you there! – Sign up today!