But in job descriptions, academic work, articles, or media posts, these two job titles—TPM and LPM—are sometimes used interchangeably. Since “localization” and “translation” don’t exactly refer to the same thing, we couldn’t help but wonder: are TPMs the same as LPMs? Is it possible to find any nuance of meaning between them? Below, we’ll outline some potential answers to these questions.

L10N and T9N

Defining the differences between localization (L10N) and translation (T9N) can be a helpful place to start. Basically, in the industry, “translation” refers to the process of changing text from one language into another to achieve an equivalent meaning. Localization, on the other hand, implies making content, products, or services linguistically and culturally accurate to a certain region.

Bearing this distinction in mind, it would be safe to assume that the difference between TPMs or LPMs relies on the kind of services LSPs offer. If an LSP specializes in localization, such as video game localization or transcreation for marketing services, their PMs manage localization workflows, so technically they are LPMs. Now, let’s look at  LSPs which offer mostly translation services for specific domain subjects, like medical, legal, or technical. In that case, their PMs are most likely TPMs.

Products vs. Documents

Translation and localization are different services that work towards different goals, so they require different kinds of processes. In localization, PMs manage projects that sometimes involve the adaptation or transcreation of globalized products. For this reason, they sometimes work alongside developers, designers, or UX writers to localize websites, mobile apps, ad campaigns, etc. In contrast, TPMs are more commonly involved in projects that require the translation of diverse types of documents.

This distinction between the translation of documents and localization of content/products results in different workflows for TPMs and LPMs to manage. For example, it’s common for a large and complex localization project to involve multiple steps and services (e.g., file preparation, DTP, implementation). Sometimes, translation, editing, or proofreading, or any other service, are part of a wider localization project. On the other side, TPMs tend to tackle projects with a narrower scope, mostly involving the translation of documents, and all the services related to this task.

Common Factors

Given that “localization” and “translation” don’t exactly mean the same, we can conclude that TPMs and LPMs have different roles and functions. Yet, both terms—TPM and LPM—are sometimes used without making any explicit distinction. Furthermore, in some cases, even the contrast between localization and translation is ambiguous, which supports the ambivalent use of the terms.

The overlapping of TPMs and LPMs also comes from the fact that, regardless of the nuances, these roles have a lot in common. Their responsibilities and skills are very much alike. An expertise in technology solutions for localization, an analytical approach, and organizational and communication skills are mandatory for both TPMs and LPMs.

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A Day in the Life of a Translation Project Manager

There is no daily routine for a PM. Every workday presents a new set of requests, challenges, and hurdles. PMs are the crucial link between the linguistic team and the AM. If translators ever have ambiguity about a project, the PM escalates those questions to the AM. The AM then takes those inquiries to the client to receive further clarification.

It is the responsibility of the PM to smoothly navigate various teams through every phase of a project. This includes the TEP Process, a cornerstone to most of our company’s projects and workflows. Organization and attention to detail are key to ensuring every task is accomplished in a timely manner.

A Translation Project Manager’s Core Skills

PMs are faced with a variety of unique challenges to resolve throughout a project. One of their most valuable skills is the ability to anticipate and manage risk. At times, projects don’t go exactly as planned. An effective PM knows how to analyze the brief, identify areas of the project most vulnerable to errors, and develop a plan to avert risk.

“We do our best to put ourselves in the translators’ shoes and predict any potential mistakes or misunderstandings they may have,” explained Cintia Iorgi, Operations Lead for Terra.

Another skill PMs must possess is the ability to effectively communicate. Using various channels, they must confidently convey clear instructions to a team of linguists across multiple time zones. If sending multiple files, PMs must provide comprehensive notes so the wrong content does not get translated. With fairness and goals in mind, PMs need to appropriately address the “needs” of clients and the “challenges” of translators. For example, if a translator needs further explanation about strategy that might affect the translation, the PM must find answers and quickly get him or her up to speed so no time is lost.

Lastly, it’s highly important for PMs to have technical skills specifically as it relates to linguist software. They often utilize Translation Management Software (TMS) and Computer Assisted Translation (CAT) tools to oversee the process. These technologies are constantly integrating and advancing so it’s vital for the PM to keep up with the evolution of the tools. When translators have issues with their CAT tools, the PM must step in to quickly find a resolution as deadlines draw closer.

The Relationship Builders

The core of a PM’s position is the ability to have a genuine connection with people. These relationships develop by the fluid communication and rapport the PM creates with both the client and the linguists.

“The relationships I’ve built is the best part of my role,” said Iorgi. “At Terra, we take pride in the supportive network and welcoming work culture that we’ve cultivated.”

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