Many standards have been developed for terminology. In terminology management, for example, we can distinguish the following types of terminology standards:

• Operating environment standards

• Subject matter or industry standards

• Terminology format standards

In the localization industry, Microsoft glossaries are often considered to be the“standard". Even though this is true for software user interface terms for Windows-based applications, other standards should also be carefully considered. When translating a financial software package, for example, terminology standards in the financial industry should be adhered to. When designing termbases, you can choose from a variety of standard formats for modeling your terminological entries. Once you have modeled your entry, however, care should be taken to maintain consistency within the termbase in order to ensure the integrity of your data over time.

1. Industry Standards

Many countries have developed standard terminology for particular industries, such as the automotive, pharmaceutical, and financial sectors. When translating a software application or web site for a specific industry or subject matter, translators should adhere to these standards in order to ensure the quality and user acceptance of the localized product. If there is any question concerning which standards to use, it is wise to consult with the client.

Even though many countries are developing country-specific terminology standards, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the ISO/IEC Joint Technical Committee 1 (JTC) are important producers of international terminology

standards.

2. Terminology Format Standards

In the early 1990s, ISO developed terminology standards, including Principles and methods of terminology (ISO 704), Presentation and layout of terminology standard (ISO 10241), Vocabulary of terminology (ISO 1087), and International barmonisation of concepts and terms (ISO 860). For more information on these standards, visit the ISO web site at