Once
the Spanish translator finishes their studies, the major components
of a Spanish Translation business are the following:
First investments:
Commercial grade computer $ 1,000
- Dell desktop computers are great computers for translators. They
are trustworthy, affordable and come with many of the features a
translator will need.
Software $ 1,000
- Including Windows, MS Office, a CAT tool (translator support
software), backup software, accounting software, etc.
Commercial grade Laser printer $ 350.00
- You will end up printing large quantities of documents, even when
you are concerned with the nature. Settle for a laser and you will
save time and money in ink cartridges. The tonner and drum for a
laser printer is costlier than ink cartridge, but the cost per
printed page is much lower.
Backup hardware $ 200.00
- OneTouch Maxtor external drives with 250MB and up are recommended
Professional desk $ 500
- The larger the better. Some translation jobs will involve several
hardcopy dictionaries, hardcopies of the text, etc.
File cabinets $ 120
- Although you should keep a digital copy of everything you do, the
old paper may be your savior when computers and hardware do not work
the way they were supposed to
Bookcase $ 350
- Ten dictionaries, translation theory books and other materials
will easily occupy an entire bookcase
Printer table $ 100
- A separate table for printing will help you keep things organized
Lightning $ 100
- Your sight is a treasure gave by God that you will want to keep
sharp for as many years as possible
Office Equipment $ 250
- Stapler, organizers, etc. There is an infinitude of accessories
that will make your profession easier.
Mail Box $ 120
- It is good to keep a separation of your home and business.
Others $ 500
Total: $ 4,590.00
Most
people will start with used equipment, postponing most of this first
investment. It may not be possible to start with a professional
grade computer, but once the translator has reached the conditions
for that they should immediately buy one. The quality and processing
speed of a computer has a great impact in the production of a
translator. In the long run, most investments in Information
technology will bring a high return in production and income. It is
worthy to remember that a single crash may cause a lost in a full
day of work.
Monthly Expenses
Room
dedicated for business $ 300 to $ 800 a month
A new computer every other year $ 500 a year or $
41.67/month
Software upgrading every other two years $ 500 a year
or $ 41.67/month
Telephone / Internet / FAX bundle $ 120 a month
Accounting $ 150 a month
Mailing $ 100 a month
Association fees distributed $ 20 a month
Paper, toner, etc. distributed $ 30 a month
Others $ 100
Total: $ 903.34 to 1,403.34
