Traditional translation services are expensive and slow, often taking 1-2 weeks per translation. Furthermore, using these services involves additional internal processes, such as arranging for quotes and obtaining authorisation to spend.
The solution
Developed using Amazon Translate as an open-source tool, it allows users to translate full documents in under 15 minutes. The tool includes features such as Personally Identifiable Information (PII) detection, configurable retention periods for PII and non-PII data, and Single Sign-On (SSO) support via Entra ID.
The solution was designed to deliver good-quality, readable translations rather than perfect accuracy. User training materials include guidance on how to obtain the best translation results. Additionally, each translation is accompanied by a legal disclaimer explaining the translation process for transparency, along with contact details for further clarification.
The solution was created by Swindon Borough Council; however, ongoing maintenance has transitioned to CityTrax, a delivery partner.
The results
Used in multiple authorities and outside of the UK.
Swindon Borough Council
Cut average translation cost per document by 99.96 percent, from £159.81 to £0.07
Reduced translation time from 16 days to 14 minutes.
Wokingham Borough Council
Cut translation cost by 99.69 percent.
Reduced translation time from 5 days to 15 mins.
Decreased internal management steps from 2 to 0.
Learnings / insights
Preparing documents with translation in mind, and following general good writing practices, is important for achieving high-quality translations.
Including a disclaimer is important for ensuring transparency, providing a point of contact for clarification and liability management.
Details
Organisation name
Swindon Borough Council; Wokingham Borough Council
Government body
Local Government
User group
Wider public sector
Use case type
Reusable
Type of technology
Machine Learning
Phase
Live
Impact
Better Customer experience / Cost savings / Time savings
Document Translate
Cutting document translation costs using AI
The challenge
Traditional translation services are expensive and slow, often taking 1-2 weeks per translation. Furthermore, using these services involves additional internal processes, such as arranging for quotes and obtaining authorisation to spend.
The solution
Developed using Amazon Translate as an open-source tool, it allows users to translate full documents in under 15 minutes. The tool includes features such as Personally Identifiable Information (PII) detection, configurable retention periods for PII and non-PII data, and Single Sign-On (SSO) support via Entra ID. The solution was designed to deliver good-quality, readable translations rather than perfect accuracy. User training materials include guidance on how to obtain the best translation results. Additionally, each translation is accompanied by a legal disclaimer explaining the translation process for transparency, along with contact details for further clarification. The solution was created by Swindon Borough Council; however, ongoing maintenance has transitioned to CityTrax, a delivery partner.
The results
Used in multiple authorities and outside of the UK. Swindon Borough Council
Learnings / insights
Details
Links