What is ISO 17100?
ISO 17100 is the international standard that sets requirements for translation services, including translator competence, revision of every translation by a second linguist and documented project processes. It covers translator qualifications, project management and quality assurance processes.
Detailed description
ISO 17100 is the international standard that specifies requirements for translation service providers. Published by the International Organization for Standardization, it establishes a comprehensive framework for managing translation quality, covering every stage of the translation process from pre-production through production to post-production.
The standard sets requirements in several key areas. For human resources, it specifies the qualifications and competencies required of translators, revisers, and project managers. Translators must demonstrate translation competence through recognised qualifications, professional experience, or a combination of both. For the translation process, it mandates that every translation must undergo revision (bilingual review) by a qualified second linguist before delivery, ensuring a minimum of two pairs of eyes on every translation. For project management, it requires documented procedures for project planning, resource allocation, quality control, and client communication. And for technology and resources, it establishes requirements for the tools and reference materials that support translation quality.
ISO 17100 certification is awarded following an independent audit by an accredited certification body, which assesses the translation provider's processes, documentation, and compliance with the standard's requirements. Certification must be maintained through regular surveillance audits.
The standard replaced the earlier European standard EN 15038 and represents the global benchmark for professional translation service quality.
LEXIGO holds ISO 17100 certification, demonstrating that our translation processes, quality controls, and team qualifications meet the international standard for professional translation services.
Why it matters
ISO 17100 certification provides clients with verifiable assurance that a translation provider meets internationally recognised quality standards. It is not a marketing claim but an independently audited certification that confirms the provider has documented processes, qualified personnel, and systematic quality controls.
For procurement managers evaluating translation providers, ISO 17100 certification is an efficient way to shortlist providers that meet a baseline quality standard. For government agencies and enterprise clients, it is increasingly specified as a procurement requirement, making it essential for providers serving these markets.
Related questions about ISO 17100 certification
What is an ISO 17100 certificate?
An ISO 17100 certificate is issued to a translation company by an independent certification body after an audit. It confirms that the company's translation process meets the standard.
Does ISO 17100 certify the translator or the company?
ISO 17100 certifies the company, not the translator. It covers a translation service provider's processes, including how it qualifies translators and reviewers, while NAATI certifies individual translators.
What does ISO 17100 require?
ISO 17100 requires documented competence for translators and revisers, revision of every translation by a second linguist, and defined project management and client feedback processes. It does not cover post-editing of raw machine translation output, or interpreting.
How is ISO 17100 different from ISO 9001?
ISO 9001 is a general quality management standard for any organisation, while ISO 17100 is specific to translation services. LEXIGO holds both, plus ISO 27001 for information security.
Is ISO 17100 the same as NAATI certification?
No, they cover different things and work together: ISO 17100 certifies a provider's process, and NAATI certifies individual translators.
Is ISO 17100 required in Australia?
No law requires ISO 17100 for everyday translation in Australia. Some government and enterprise buyers specify it in procurement for quality assurance.
How can I check a provider's ISO 17100 certification?
Ask the provider for its ISO 17100 certificate and confirm the certification body, scope and expiry date.