Named to the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies and ranked among the world’s top 100 language service providers by CSA Research
Multilingual Typesetting
At Eriksen, we approach typesetting with the same care and attention to detail that run through all of our work. Combining the expertise of seasoned typesetting professionals, eagle-eye project managers, and tried-and-true processes, we deliver layouts that are clear, accurate, and visually appealing in any language.
Potential Issues When Typesetting
Multilingual typesetting entails setting text while adhering to country-specific typographical conventions. It’s not easy. Double-byte characters and bi-directional text change the look of even the most carefully designed layout. When text is translated, it often expands or contracts relative to the source language. As a result, different languages may not fit into your images, charts, and buttons as planned. Bulleted or numerical lists don’t always flow as expected. Awkward line breaks happen, and accents or labels go missing.
Typographical Expertise
Eriksen will help you navigate the challenges. Our multilingual typesetting experts will handle formatting issues that arise from even the most challenging of character sets. We will set your text for optimal readability, taking into consideration any cultural issues while solving the specific challenges presented by different languages.
We will ensure:
- The correct fonts are used and the text displays properly in the layout files.
- The text adheres to all typographical rules for punctuation, spacing, and page setup.
- All your materials maintain uniformity of design across language combinations and file formats.
Post-typesetting Review Process
As a final step, we perform a stringent round of post-typesetting proofreading by our linguistic team to confirm that the integrity of your translation was preserved in the typesetting process. All graphics files are collected and delivered in the format you need for print or electronic distribution.
We manage the process from start to finish, either when providing typesetting in combination with translation, or as an independent service.
Delivering Quality
By merging typographical expertise, a linguistic perspective, and a rigorous focus on quality, Eriksen will make all of your materials look as though they were created for your target audience. So you look good—in any language.
What is multilingual typesetting?
Multilingual typesetting entails placing and formatting translated text into a graphic or design program such as InDesign. Typesetters ensure that the correct fonts are used, and text displays properly and adheres to all typographical rules for punctuation, spacing, and page setup.
How much does typesetting cost?
Typesetting services are billed on an hourly basis and quoted based on our analysis of your files. To get started, visit our request-a-quote page, and we will provide you with a free quote.
How does typesetting work?
Eriksen will work directly from your design files, such as InDesign or Illustrator. The text is extracted, translated, and then edited. Next, a multilingual typesetter imports the translated and edited text into the working design file. They will ensure that all text displays correctly and fits properly within the layout, and identify and correct any issues. After the typesetting step is complete, a final proofreading ensures that everything is correct and consistent across languages. Finally, the translated, typeset files are delivered, ready for print.
How long does typesetting take?
Turnaround times for typesetting are calculated on a per-project basis, depending on the complexity of the work and the number of languages required.
Without fail, Eriksen has come through for us for the last 16 years. They come through—on-time, on budget and flawlessly.
Peter Byrnes, President, Lúgh Studio, Inc.