12. Translation, Accessibility, and Communication

AI language tools can translate text, simplify complex writing, suggest alternative wording, transcribe speech, and help people communicate across language barriers. They are useful for drafts and routine communication, but not every translation is fit for official or high-stakes use.

12.1 Translation and localisation

Tools such as DeepL, Google Translate, and multilingual conversational assistants can produce a first translation. Localisation goes beyond word substitution: it considers culture, idiom, register, legal terminology, units, date formats, and audience expectations. Ask for uncertain phrases to be flagged and have a fluent human reviewer check important content.

12.2 Official and high-stakes translation

For legal documents, immigration materials, medical instructions, contracts, public safety notices, and official academic records, use a qualified translator or appropriate professional review. AI can assist with a preliminary draft, glossary, or consistency check, but should not be the sole authority.

12.3 Accessibility

Speech recognition, captions, text-to-speech, alt-text generation, and plain-language rewriting may improve access. Check whether outputs preserve meaning and whether the interface works for the intended user. Accessibility is a user outcome, not simply a feature label.