This document gives guidance on the evaluation of human translation output, post-edited machine translation output, and unedited machine translation output. It also provides guidance on the qualifications and competences of evaluators. The role of sampling is also discussed in this document.


This document focuses on an analytic translation evaluation approach using error types and penalty points configured to produce an error score and a quality rating.


A further focus is the human evaluation of translation output only. This document follows an approach designed to reflect minimum complexity. The rationale behind this approach is to keep this document applicable for as many users as possible in the translation sector.


The guidance provided in this document can also support the evaluation of source texts intended for translation.


This document is applicable to translation service providers (TSPs), including individual translators, translation companies or in-house translation services, their clients and other interested parties in the translation sector, such as translator education and training institutions.


This document does not apply to related elements such as the processes of assuring the quality of translation output and corrective actions.


This document does not apply to interpreting.