Standards Speak: Language Edition

In this episode our host sits down with Dr. ChristopherKurz, an expert in translation quality management and one of the key architectsbehind ISO 5060 , the international standard for the evaluation oftranslation output. Dr. Kurz takes us through the history of the standard, thechallenges overcome during its development, and the methodology that underpinsit. He also reflects on the role of technolo...

What happens when over 30 countries collaborate to shape language industry standards? Christine Reichhardt, from the German Institute for Standardization (DIN), joins Maryse Benhoff to offer an insider’s view of ISO TC 37 SC 5. From resolving cross-cultural misunderstandings to managing remote and in-person working groups, Christine explains how standards evolve—and how everyone, even non-experts,...

Translating legal documents across jurisdictions can be a minefield. That’s why ISO/TS 25368 is here—to bring clarity, trust, and global alignment to certified translations. In this episode, expert Liese Katschinka explains how this emerging standard is set to transform legal translation practices, minimize risk, and better serve individuals navigating international systems. If you've ever handled...

What happens when technology outpaces tradition? In this insightful episode, host Maryse Benhoff is joined by Klaus Ziegler, who led the creation of ISO 24019, a landmark standard for remote interpreting platforms. They discuss how early vision, global cooperation, and a bit of improvisation helped build a framework just in time for a pandemic-driven shift. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at...

Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the development of ISO 23155, the new standard for conference interpreting services, with guest Harris Ghinos. From redefining what constitutes a conference to addressing the lasting effects of pandemic-era interpreting practices, Harris explains how this standard helps realign the industry with quality, safety, and professionalism. A must-listen for interpr...

What happens when interpreter qualifications differ dramatically from one country to another? Dr. Izabel Souza joins host Maryse Benhoff to explore ISO 21998 and how it brings structure and safety to the world of healthcare interpreting. From clarifying terminology to defining critical competencies, this standard sets the foundation for consistent, high-quality language access in medical settings...

Behind every great standard is a clear definition. In this episode, Dr. Tegau Andrews explores ISO 20539, a vocabulary standard that brings consistency and clarity to the language services sector. From guiding project leaders to supporting translators and interpreters worldwide, this evolving glossary bridges gaps and builds shared understanding. Whether you're crafting a contract or drafting a st...

Legal interpreting is essential—but how do we ensure it’s done right? This episode shines a light on ISO 20228, a powerful standard designed to protect justice, language access, and interpreter professionalism. Guests Liese Katschinka and Barbara Rovan reflect on years of advocacy, practical implementation, and the evolving needs of courts and public authorities. With remote interpreting on the ri...

Standards don’t just define—they empower. In this episode, Dr. Verónica Pérez Guarnieri reveals how ISO 18841 is transforming the interpreting profession with clear, human-centered guidance for quality, inclusivity, and adaptability. Discover how this global standard helps protect languages of lesser diffusion, supports diverse pathways into interpreting, and ensures better outcomes for society as...

In this episode of Standards Speak: Language Edition, host Maryse Benhoff speaks with industry veteran Livia Florensa Tomasi, the original project leader behind ISO 18587 on post-editing machine-translation output. Livia shares the fascinating story of how the standard came to life and discusses the major challenges faced in its current revision. From merging with ISO 17100 to incorporating AI and...

What does it take to create fair, professional spaces for sign language interpreters? In this episode, Dr. Maya de Wit unveils the journey behind ISO 17651-4—a pioneering standard that ensures sign language interpreters have the tools and setups they need to succeed. From inclusive drafting to global collaboration, this episode is a call to action: standards are only as strong as those who shape t...

Standards evolve—and with them, the spaces interpreters work in. In this episode, Frédéric Pirotte, an experienced EU technical expert, explains how the ISO 17651 family of standards addresses modern interpreting needs. From traditional booths to new interpreting hubs, Frédéric outlines the challenges and achievements behind the standardization process. Get a glimpse into the global collaboration...

How do international translation standards come to life? Chris Cox, who led the creation of ISO 17100, joins host Maryse Benhoff to explore the global effort behind the standard. From navigating cultural and academic differences to refining qualification requirements, Chris reflects on the lessons learned and why standardization remains vital to the language industry. This episode is a must-listen...

ISO 17100 changed the game for translation professionals—finally offering a unified, global standard to define what quality means. In this episode, Peter Reynolds takes us behind the scenes of its development and reveals why it remains a trusted touchstone today. As the industry faces new questions around AI and automation, this is a timely reminder that standards don't just follow change—they hel...

What makes a standard work across dozens of languages and countries? Dr. Debra Russell, a global expert in sign language and community interpreting, joins host Maryse Benhoff to reflect on her leadership of ISO 13611. They discuss how the standard moved from guidelines to firm requirements, supporting both interpreters and training institutions worldwide. From pandemic-era challenges to harmonizin...

In a world of rapid automation, standards like ISO 11669 offer the anchor professionals need. Join Maryse Benhoff as he talks with Angelika and Ingemar about how this newly updated standard empowers translation providers and clients alike through meaningful specifications and shared responsibility. Discover how purpose, risk, and transparency can drive smarter workflows and better outcomes. This e...

Every person deserves to be understood—especially in moments that matter. In this episode, discover how ISO/TS 6253 is helping build the foundation for competent, trusted community interpreters through structured training programs. Remco Ruiter shares the behind-the-scenes challenges, cultural debates, and global impact of this essential standard. Whether you're a trainer, policymaker, or lang...

In this episode, host Maryse Benhoff speaks with Angela Sasso, a recognized leader in interpreter training and standards. Together, they explore ISO TS 6253, which sets out requirements and recommendations for training community interpreters. Angela discusses the inspiration behind the standard, how it builds on ISO 13611, and the vital role it plays in supporting underserved languages and non-ins...