Staging - .idml & .indd Orders

Navigation and understanding of .indd and .idml orders through our process

If you have a .idml or .indd document you need translated, these files require specific knowledge and tools to process.

.idml and .indd files consist of a number of components that can be understood as layers of images/text. However, depending on your translation needs, there are two services we offer.

This informative guide will outline everything you need to know about processing such files and enable you to make the best decision - saving you both time and money.


.idml

What is .idml?

  • .idml stands for InDesign Markup Language and is specifically designed for translating the content within InDesign files.
  • These files are translated outside of the Tolq platform by experienced translators and typically follow a straightforward process.

How we process .idml orders

  1. Open .indd File: To initiate the process, you'll need to open the .indd file in Adobe InDesign, where your content is stored.
  2. Export as .idml: Export the document as an .idml file directly from Adobe InDesign. This format ensures compatibility and ease of translation.
  3. File Submission: Share both the .idml file and a PDF version of the document with Tolq. This allows us to understand the context and layout of your content accurately.
  4. Translator Assignment: Our team assigns an experienced translator, proficient in both the source and target languages, to handle your .idml file.
  5. Content Extraction and Translation: The translator extracts the content from the .idml file and translates it into the desired language. They ensure accuracy and maintain the original formatting as closely as possible.
  6. Delivery of Translated .idml: Once the translation is complete, you'll receive the translated .idml file, ensuring your content is ready for immediate use.
  7. Review and Feedback: We encourage you to review the translated .idml file and provide any feedback or revisions if necessary. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we're committed to delivering high-quality translations that meet your expectations.

By following these steps, we ensure a smooth and efficient process for translating .idml files, allowing you to effectively communicate your message to a global audience.

Important Note: No formatting will occur during the translation of .idml files.

Using .idml for translation purposes alone can be a cost-effective approach, especially if formatting is not required.

However, it's crucial to recognize that while your .idml file has been translated, formatting remains incomplete. 

Without formatting in Adobe InDesign, your file may contain elements such as images and text that are out of place and unformatted. Therefore, additional formatting is necessary to ensure your translated document maintains its intended layout and appearance.

For comprehensive and polished results, we recommend finalizing the formatting using Adobe InDesign after receiving the translated .idml file. This step ensures that your content is presented accurately and professionally, enhancing its overall quality and effectiveness.  

For an additional charge, we offer Desktop Publishing Work (DTP) services, which involve formatting using the original .indd file.

With DTP, our team utilizes the original .indd file to meticulously format your translated document. This service ensures that all elements, including images, text, and layout, are accurately aligned and presented according to your specifications.

By opting for DTP, you can achieve a polished and professional final product, with your translated content seamlessly integrated into the design. This comprehensive solution streamlines the process and ensures consistency across your documents, enhancing their visual appeal and readability.

If you're interested in availing of our DTP services, please reach out to our team for more information and pricing details. We're here to assist you in achieving your desired formatting goals and ensuring the highest quality for your translated documents.


.indd

What is .indd?

The InDesign Document or .indd is the original file format containing all design elements, including text and formatting.

Translation and Desktop Publishing (DTP) for .indd files is a distinct service. Here, an experienced translator utilises the .indd file along with any accompanying fonts, images, and formatting instructions provided by you to accurately format your document.

How we process .indd orders

Processing Your .indd Request:

  1. File Submission: You provide the .indd file along with all relevant fonts, images, and any additional formatting instructions, along with a copy of the PDF for context.
  2. Translator Assignment: Our team assigns the project to a translator with expertise in .indd files and desktop publishing.
  3. Translation: Your .indd file is translated at the agreed-upon rate, ensuring accurate and precise conversion of content.
  4. Estimated Time Range: Our sales team can provide you with an estimated time range for the DTP work (e.g., 2-4 hours), but the final rate will be confirmed after completion of the order.
  5. Delivery: You'll receive a translated and formatted .indd file ready for immediate use. This comprehensive service ensures that your document maintains its original design and layout, enhancing its professional appearance.

Please note: As this is an additional service, it is advisable to verify whether your marketing/design department can handle and process .indd files before requesting this service. This ensures efficient utilisation of resources and minimizes any potential duplication of effort.


Which should you request?

In conclusion, you have two options to choose from:

Option 1: If your company possesses the necessary skills to handle both .idml and .indd files, including formatting, then all you'll require from us is an .idml translation.

OR

Option 2: If your company lacks the expertise to handle such files, you'll need to request both an .idml translation and .indd Desktop Publishing (DTP) work from us. We'll handle the formatting to ensure the file is ready for immediate use.

Please note:  There will be an additional charge for the expert formatting of the .indd file.


Should you have any further inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact your Tolq Account Manager. We're here to assist you in selecting the option that best meets your needs and to provide any additional support you may require.