Artificial Intelligence
Generative AI and other emerging technologies have developed rapidly since the launch of Chat GPT in November 2023. This technological revolution has undoubedtly had an impact on the translation and interpreting profession and brought a level of disruption and uncertaintly which we, and others, are still learning to navigate.
Key issues facing the language services sector
There is a risk that public perception of the value of linguistic skills may decline but, on the other hand, there is an opportunity to highlight the considerable expertise offered by language professionals operating in specialist sectors. Having participated in a wide range of sector discussions in recent months it seems that there is a growing consensus that the key issues for the language services sector are likely to centre on the following themes:
- The human is, and will continue to be, essential to ensuring high quality, accurate and ethical translation and interpreting outcomes
- The evolution and regulation of generative AI technologies is out of our control, but we might need to selectively challenge some developments
- New models of working could offer the potential for new commercial opportunities and diversification
- Much more content will (need to) be translated in the future
- The most skilled linguists will be in greatest demand i.e. commercial success will lie in specialisation rather than generalisation.
ITI's response
The Board recognises the importance of this topic and is actively monitoring develeopments in the sector. We are also committed to supporting members in a number of ways:
- Continuing to champion the value of human translators and interpreters
- Ensuring that the Board has access to knowledge and experience to support informed decision-making
- Supporting ITI members to learn about generative AI tools and how to use them to enhance and adapt their businesses
- Seeking out opportunities to collaborate with other organisations on shared initiatives in this policy area.
In terms of working with other organisations we strongly support the work of the International Federation of Translators and the European Language Council who have both published detailed papers (which can be accessed below) setting out the risks and limitations of AI in relation to translation and interpreting.
Policy papers on AI
Useful information
