CAT tools (Computer-assisted translation)
Description
CAT tools are designed to support, not replace, human translators. They provide an interactive environment where linguists can focus on meaning and nuance while the system manages the repetitive and technical aspects of translation.
A modern CAT tool stores translations in a translation memory (TM), checks terminology against a shared glossary and can access machine translation (MT) suggestions to accelerate the process. These features ensure translators don’t need to start from scratch each time – instead, they can reuse and refine existing work, maintaining both speed and quality.
Today’s CAT tools are cloud-enabled, allowing translators, reviewers and project managers to collaborate seamlessly online or offline. Many, including Trados, offer hybrid environments where users can switch between desktop and browser-based workspaces. This flexibility lets teams work securely from anywhere, while maintaining centralized control of linguistic assets such as TMs, terminology databases and translation projects. By combining automation and human judgment, CAT tools form the foundation of efficient, scalable translation operations for enterprises and language professionals alike.
Example use cases
- Professional translation: Enable translators to reuse existing translations and maintain consistency.
- Localization projects: Manage and align linguistic assets across teams and markets.
- Terminology management: Ensure brand and terminology consistency in all languages.
- Quality assurance: Check formatting, placeholders and linguistic accuracy automatically.
- Team collaboration: Share translation memories and glossaries securely in real time.
Key benefits
RWS perspective
At RWS, CAT tools represent the perfect partnership between people and technology. Our Trados suite – the world’s most widely used CAT environment – helps individuals and enterprises create, translate and manage multilingual content with accuracy and confidence.
Trados connects translation memories, terminology management, machine translation and AI-powered analytics in one collaborative ecosystem. By combining automation for speed with human expertise for quality, RWS enables linguists and organizations to achieve the best of both worlds: precision, productivity and personalization at scale. Whether working as a freelance translator or coordinating enterprise localization, RWS provides the technology and expertise to make every translation faster, smarter and more consistent.