Begin with the intended use
An internal working document and a public website may need different levels of adaptation. Explain who will read the text and how it will be used.
The brief should describe the purpose, tone and terminology. This gives the reviewer a basis for assessing the machine output.
Compare with the original
A fluent sentence can still leave out information or change a relationship between ideas. Post-editing therefore needs the source text, not just the automatic translation.
Meaning, omissions, additions and terminology can be checked alongside grammar and style. The scope should be agreed for the material itself.
Keep the approach open
Some output provides a useful starting point. Other material may need so much rewriting that a new translation is more appropriate.
Share a description of the source and machine output before assuming a saving in cost or time. An initial assessment helps frame the discussion.
