Historical Background and Early Innovations
In 1988, TTN launched what was likely the world’s first translation server. Written in assembler and C, it operated via a 1200-baud Hayes modem on a machine with only 640 KB of memory. In the early 1990s, this innovation won several prestigious software awards. One of the first clients to use the system was the SLF Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research in Davos. The system could relay translation orders fully automatically at any time of day, making it particularly valuable for clients requiring rapid turnaround times.
Evolution into an AI-Driven TMS
Over the past four decades, TTN has continuously developed this technology into a powerful and comprehensive Translation Management System (TMS). The system’s unique selling point is its fully automated, AI-driven operation, which performs many project management tasks more efficiently than a human manager. The TTN TMS offers numerous features that are not currently available in any other system.
Secure On-Premises Infrastructure
The current version of the TTN TMS system is deployed on-premises in a high-security data centre in Geneva. It can also operate as a hybrid system, hosted partly on Microsoft Azure Cloud Services. This configuration was selected because many of TTN’s medical and military clients require that data not be stored on U.S.-controlled cloud infrastructure.
Company Structure and AI Expertise
The TTN TMS software was developed by Extran Ltd., a Geneva-based company. Since 2006, Extran has also owned an AI-focused subsidiary, Keybot LLC, which developed a proprietary system for converting multilingual websites into translation memories.
Features and System Capabilities
TTN’s AI-powered TSM uses a CATT container approach to integrate multiple third-party translation tools rather than relying on a single proprietary system. It seamlessly incorporates RWS GroupShare—one of the highest-performing translation memory (TM) systems—and supports both an online editor and Trados Studio. This solution ensures robust performance with translation memories containing millions of segments, where many other systems struggle.
Workflow Automation and Efficiency
The system is designed so that producing a translation requires only nine clicks from start to finish. The process has been designed to be highly efficient and user-friendly:
- 3 clicks by the client to create and submit the order.
- 3 clicks by the translator to accept, translate, and deliver the file.
- 3 clicks by the proofreader to review and finalise the translation.
This streamlined workflow minimises administrative effort and ensures that projects progress seamlessly from request to delivery in a very short time, with direct intervention by the Translation Manager rarely required.
If an issue or exceptional task arises, the system immediately notifies the Translation Manager via WhatsApp, SMS, or email. Minor issues can be resolved promptly and efficiently – even from a smartphone – ensuring uninterrupted operation and continuous project flow.
Approximately 98% of routine tasks can be handled through a few simple web forms. However, TTN’s TMS also provides over 500 specialised forms to manage complex cases or special requirements. These advanced forms allow expert users to handle edge cases and require more in-depth training.
Language Support and User Interface
The TTN system supports translations into over 150 languages. The client-facing user interface is available in 63 languages, ensuring accessibility for clients worldwide.
TTN has developed its own translation search engine called Keybot as part of its AI initiatives. The company’s AI team (Keybot LLC) has also created a custom plugin for SDL Trados that leverages conversational AI to maximize translation quality and consistency.