Linguistic Validation – Everything you need to know:

What is Linguistic Validation  - this is undoubtedly the first question to pop in your mind. And it's pretty valid too – not everyone really knows about linguistic Validation. So here's a tell-all post about linguistic Validation – everything you need to know, in a single post.

What is Linguistic Validation?

Linguistic Validation is an essential aspect of any product that is to be sold internationally. The instruction manual which these products come with is where linguistic Validation comes into the picture – the user manual is simultaneously translated into various languages. These translations are validated by translating them back to the original translation by another set of translators. This ensures that the literal meaning of the translation stays intact through the translations.

Why is Linguistic Validation important?

The objective is simple – any product, any journal or anything that is to be circulated internationally has to be equipped with a user manual, a guide that comes with proper, understandable instructions with it. This ensures that the instructions are loud and clear in every language – to make sure the people using the product, or reading the journal or anything else use the product the way it is meant to be used. Linguistic Validation is what makes sure the instructions go across the world precisely as they are in their native language.

Where is it used?

Those in the field of clinical research are very well versed with the importance and rampant usage of Lingusitic Validation. Mostly, the Lingusitic validation is used in Clinical Outcomes Assessments – which are basically elaborate questionnaires. People who are handed over these assessment sheets are expected to respond to them – the responses vary from person to person. These responses are further evaluated.  

What is the procedure of Linguistic Validation?

  The procedure starts with Forward Translation, wherein a minimum of two translators first translate the material into the required language. The varied versions of the same material are then reconciled to ensure the best-translated script goes ahead. Further, Back translation is done – this is done by a different set of translators to ensure maximum clarity. Once this matches, the final draft is forwarded to the project manager, who once again reviews the translated material before forwarding it for the closing process. The procedure of the Linguistic Validation is such that it ensures no mistakes are carried forward and the assessment material goes ahead as it is meant to – in the diverse languages it is translated into.