ISO 5060:2024 is based on an analytical approach, meaning the translated content is closely examined for specific errors. These errors are categorized, and each is assigned a numerical value, called an error type weight, based on its severity, leading to a final score. This system contrasts with a holistic approach, which focuses on the overall impression of the translation without breaking down individual errors.

The standard defines an error typology organized into seven main categories:

1. Terminology: Inconsistent use of terminology or use of incorrect terms.
2. Accuracy: Issues such as mistranslation, omission, or addition of information.
3. Linguistic conventions: Grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors.
4. Style: Inconsistencies in style or register.
5. Local conventions: Errors in adapting local formats for dates, numbers, currencies, etc.
6. Audience appropriateness: Mistakes related to culture-specific references.
7. Design and markup: Issues with formatting, layout, or hyperlinks.

Each identified error is classified based on its severity, which can be minor, major, or critical. A critical error is one that renders the translation unusable, potentially leading to serious consequences, such as financial loss or reputational damage.

To ensure that the evaluation process is accurate and objective, ISO 5060:2024 outlines the necessary competences and qualifications for evaluators. Evaluators must have expertise in translation, revision, and evaluation, as well as technical and cultural competences to understand not only the linguistic content but also the context in which the translation will be used.

The standard recommends that evaluators hold at least a degree in translation or a related field or have equivalent documented experience in translation and revision. These competences ensure that the evaluator can identify errors, categorize them correctly, and provide constructive feedback to translators or service providers.

The evaluation process is divided into three phases: pre-evaluation, evaluation, and post-evaluation. During the pre-evaluation phase, the project specifications are defined, including the type of content, the purpose of the evaluation, and the resources available. It is also determined whether the entire translation output will be evaluated or if the sampling method, whereby only parts of the text are evaluated, will be used.

In the evaluation phase, the evaluator uses a translation evaluation scorecard, which records the types of errors identified, their severity, and their impact on the overall quality of the translation. Based on the final score, the translation may receive a “pass” or “fail” rating. Additionally, if critical errors are identified, the translation automatically fails, regardless of the total score.

In the post-evaluation phase, the evaluator provides detailed feedback on the quality of the translation. There is also a dispute resolution process if the translation service provider disagrees with the evaluation results. This feedback is essential for improving the translator’s work and optimizing future translation processes.

One of the most important features of ISO 5060:2024 is its flexibility. Users of the standard can adapt the evaluation specifications according to the content type, industry, and target audience. For example, terminology errors may be more critical in technical translations, while style errors could have a greater impact on marketing or literary translations.

Additionally, the standard allows translation service providers to decide whether they will evaluate the entire translation output or just a sample. This flexibility is valuable when time and budget constraints are present, though it is important to note that sampling may not detect all errors present in the full translation.

ISO 5060:2024 also emphasizes the importance of cohesion and coherence in translation. These two elements are crucial to ensure that the text is comprehensible and logically structured. Cohesion refers to the surface-level connections between different parts of the text, while coherence relates to the logical flow of the overall message. Although cohesion and coherence errors can be difficult to detect, they have a significant impact on the quality of the translation.