Public Sector Translation and Interpretation: Demand Analysis for Taiwan

This study aims to investigate the public sector demand for translation and interpretation (T&I) services. Results indicate that over 60% of the government units surveyed need translation and interpretation services; the total demand, which is diversified, is valued at more than NT$100,000,000. In fulfilling this need, many government units seek resources from within the organization while other seek to outsource. Moreover, it has been found that in the selection of translation and interpretation providers, the main criteria are experience, educational background and knowledge of the domain. The providing of stable, high quality translation and interpretation services to the public sector faces certain challenges, which include: (1) an insufficient budget; (2) a shortage of human resources. It is clear that T&I services, which include the translation of Chinese works and documents into foreign languages, need to be expanded to include more languages and to facilitate access to service providers. It is also clear that translation and interpretation services need to be enhanced by reviewing current policies and by continuing to facilitate the healthy development of this industry.