Rate scheme
A rate scheme is a pricing structure used in translation projects that defines the cost per word based on the level of match found in a translation memory (TM). It applies discounts for repetitive or previously translated content, ensuring clients pay less for recycled text.
Description
Rate schemes are the mechanism that delivers the financial benefit of translation memory technology. Instead of a flat fee for every word in a document, the analysis breaks the content down into categories.
These categories include: New words (no match, 100% rate); Fuzzy matches (similar segments, lower price); Repetitions (identical segments in the same project, significant discount); and 100% / ICE matches (identical to stored translations, often nominal cost). The rate scheme makes pricing transparent and predictable. It incentivizes consistent writing and rewards long-term partnership. RWS configures rate schemes within Trados and enterprise platforms to align with each client’s specific contract and workflow requirements.