When it comes to packaging technology, technical manuals must be accurate, clearly formatted, and ready for use — often in multiple languages. And ideally, delivered as fully prepared print- and web-ready documents. That’s the kind of challenge our client presented — and the kind we specialize in.
Context: High-Precision Content for Automation and Packaging Solutions
Our client, a major manufacturer in the field of packaging systems and automation, needed multilingual versions of machine operation manuals for international users. These documents are critical for the proper use of equipment and must comply with strict safety standards.
The goal? To deliver precisely translated, professionally laid-out manuals for customers and technicians across Europe — ready for both print and digital distribution, with the original layout preserved.
The Challenge: No Editable Source Files, High Requirements, Complex Layout
The client did not have editable source files. Instead, they provided scanned PDFs of printed manuals — which meant we had to rebuild the entire layout and design from scratch while maintaining the original look and feel.
In addition, the manuals contained highly technical language relating to robotic and electromechanical systems. Terminological accuracy was crucial — every word carried operational and safety implications.
Another challenge: the documents arrived over several months in multiple batches, with varying lengths and formats. Still, the final outputs had to look cohesive, consistent, and professionally branded.
Our Solution: Precision Workflow and Cross-Functional Expertise
Thanks to our streamlined internal process that connects translation, DTP, and project management teams, we handled the project efficiently and consistently. Every document followed a coordinated, step-by-step approach:
- Layout Reconstruction:
Our DTP team rebuilt the scanned files into editable PowerPoint documents, allowing for full localization while preserving the original design. Each file typically required around 20 hours of detailed formatting work. - Specialized Translation:
The content, packed with terminology from automation, robotics, and industrial safety, was translated by a dedicated technical linguist with years of experience in industrial documentation. - Review and Finalization:
Each file underwent thorough linguistic and visual QA. The final output was delivered as a press-ready PDF, suitable for both digital and print use.
Thanks to close cooperation between our translator and DTP specialists, we ensured consistent terminology, design, and structure across all files — even though they were delivered at different stages of the project.
The Outcome: Complete, Professional Documentation for International Markets
Over the course of this collaboration, we delivered four major projects, each totaling 20,000–25,000 words — nearly 80,000 words of highly technical content in total, including:
- Operational and safety instructions
- Detailed process descriptions for packaging systems
- Technical specs for robotic devices
- Maintenance guidelines and servicing procedures
Each manual was professionally localized and visually aligned with the client’s brand standards, ensuring readiness for immediate use — whether printed or distributed electronically.
What Made This Project Stand Out
This project is a perfect example of what can be achieved through well-structured processes and a tightly aligned team — from translator to DTP specialist. Despite the lack of editable source files, we delivered complete, professional documentation across several languages and timelines.
It showed that consistency and reliability are just as vital as linguistic accuracy in technical translation — and that’s exactly what we delivered.
The fact that this client continues to work with us confirms our role as a trusted partner for complex, high-stakes technical content.
Technical Translation Is About More Than Just Words
This case study highlights a key truth in the tech sector: quality language services don’t start and end with translation. When source files are missing — or when final documents need to be print-ready — the difference lies in the process, the team, and the attention to detail.
If you’re looking for a partner who can help you produce multilingual technical documentation even under difficult conditions, Skrivanek is here to help.
