Starting a business in the language service industry does not require expensive investments. Nevertheless, a professional must have the tools of a professional. If your computer keeps crashing, your software is out of date, you can’t access files, you don’t have translation memory software, and your e-mail inbox is always full, you simply can’t fulfill your clients’ needs, and you don’t give a very good impression of yourself as a professional, either.
The most common software tools in the language service industry are relatively lightweight, so a basic computer will suffice. Office applications and a translation memory tool are a must, and you will also need an internet connection, an e-mail address, and a phone. Additional tools may become necessary as your client base begins to expand. Naturally, you will also need a system for invoicing.
