A brief evolution of machine translation and translation needs during conflict

Being a translator and interpreter in a conflict zone is one tense choice of a career. And a highly interesting one for a linguist. There are a few moments more crucial than these where understanding on both sides has a real impact on world peace.

Before, it was a 100% high-risk job. Translation would many times be done in an environment vulnerable to attacks. All people present had to be prepared on how to react under fire or havoc. There are cases where having an interpreter saved soldiers from landmines and dangerous paths.

Luckily, as time went by, machine translation made its way to replace unnecessary human presence in conflict situations. Today, a microphone can automatically translate into a screen or speaker multiple languages in real-time(a technology also used in restaurants in Japan). And if not, an earpiece with someone safely on the other side can do for the rest of the situations. The more is not the merrier in this case and being able to advance in smaller groups alleviates tension. In some cases, when negotiation is adamant, and in person, an interpreter could be necessary. But today this is a choice and not an imposition.

Whatever the means, the purpose is to ensure that the message is conveyed effectively. With most soldiers being unable to speak beyond basic phrases of foreign languages, and a shortage of interpreters, machine translation was a breakthrough.

How does this technology work and how can it improve how we communicate?

How it started

In 2006, IBM took a big leap. It delivered 35 notebook computers with voice recognition software for the medical personnel in US Special Operations forces and the US Marine Corps.

This meant that now medical situations with Iraqi security forces and citizens could be sailed through without major language complications. The technology allowed for effective communication in real-world tactical situations. It quickly translated languages that seemed immensely far away, like Iraqi Arabic.

The speech-to-speech translator had been in development since 2001. And at the time, machine translation was still far from being something that could be present in our daily lives.

Some ideas to start planning your next success.

Styles of consumption are constantly shifting. How do people relate? What is their way of working? Do they consume media? As people incorporate a digital mindset that is cross to all generations, new experiences become widespread. Demands and standards raise the bar.

Differentiated products and interfaces are baseline blueprint. Not to mention political and consumer activism have become a weight variable when it comes to consumption. These macro currents along with enduring consumer tendencies must be addressed.

But how?

ADM data shows that 63 percent of global consumers are interested in food and drink products that are customized to meet their individual nutritional needs.Personalization considers individual motivations and needs that reflect taste, culture and other approaches that align with one’s lifestyle. You may be thinking about the wellness of your business, but people expect you to consider their personal wellness and specific needs.

From demanding that companies practice fair and humane treatment of the people and animals involved in every aspect of production, to the final product addressing them by their first name and in their language. Almost 30% of global consumers have actively boycotted a product or brand because of its ethical credentials.

Currently, 8% of the United States population is limited English proficient (LEP). That number is expected to grow, as immigration is projected to account for 88% of the United States population increase through 2065.

Almost all target audiences are language diverse, need accessibility measures and have a disability of sorts (be it permanent or temporal, like a broken arm). There are at least 350 languages spoken in U.S. homes. The LEP, Deaf, and Hard of Hearing populations grow. Language support is essential for all major industries, from healthcare to financial services and business to public services. Be it for subtitling, voice over, over the phone interpretation, localization of packaging, enabling multiple versions of one website, or adapting it to specific profiles. We must at least consider it.