Trados Studio is a translation management and language localization platform, from multinational SDL headquartered in the UK. It is a computer-assisted translation product, designed to be a complete translation environment for language professionals who want to edit, review and manage translation projects whilst in the office or on the move.
$408
per year per user
XTRF
Score 1.0 out of 10
N/A
XTRF is software to manage localization projects for LSPs or a global enterprises, from the company of the same name in Krakow. XTRF enables users to manage cross-time zone language projects, send quotes, hire linguists, give a heads-up to project managers, and manage project deliveries. In addition, you can link your favorite CAT tool to XTRF to make your job a breeze. XTRF is designed to be the backbone of any successful localization business and boasts users among 350 companies worldwide.
Although now there are competitors, it held a monopoly on computer assisted translation packages for some years. If high prices and poor customer support are not an issue for you, by all means purchase it. Other translators can find better options elsewhere in 2022.
In my experience, XTRF's track record on basic functionality leaves a lot to be desired. Those so-called "smart projects" feel more like needy projects, with limitations popping up at every turn. And don't get me started on the integrations—memoQ? Yeah, I feel like it's a struggle. Customizing notifications? Good luck with that. And as for support, well, let's just say you're better off sending messages to the void.
Again, the list of functions is impressive but the way it is organized (not process-driven) and the fact that complex tasks should be close to basic tasks make the product suitable to hardcore users that have a lot of time to research the manuals and blogs. By the way, Nora Diaz is one of the most respectable users of this product. Her videos help a lot!
Support has been fast, precise and thorough. There is support on the web, by chat, by email, from the communities, from the experts, on the product Help section, on YouTube, and other social media. There is also a paid support for companies. This area is where the company stands out. I was not able to evaluate the support in languages other than English.
We have tried a variety of other CAT software at times. The problem is that few have the market penetration or critical mass of users that SDL Trados does. It's not that the software is the best out there, it's long term stability and the number of users that is more important. We need to be compatible with our suppliers, so the choice is made on that basis.
In my opinion, the limitations in functionality, especially with smart projects and integrations with tools like memoQ, have hindered the full realization of its potential.