A translation management system is the platform that runs a localization operation. Instead of emailing files between translators, a TMS centralizes the workflow: files come in, are analyzed against translation memory and termbases, assigned to linguists, reviewed, QA-checked, and delivered — with every step tracked.
The components matter more than the acronym. Translation memory stores every previously approved sentence and reuses it, cutting cost and turnaround on updates. The termbase enforces approved terminology across projects. Automated QA checks catch number mismatches, tag errors, and inconsistencies before a human ever sees the file. Analytics show exactly what each word costs.
For buyers, the TMS is mostly invisible — but its effects are not. Quotes that drop on the second project, terminology that stays consistent across a 40-language manual set, and turnaround measured in days instead of weeks are all TMS effects.
MediaLocalize runs every project through a managed TMS workflow with client-specific translation memories and termbases. The assets belong to you: on request, you receive your TM and termbase exports, so your language data is never locked in.