October 3rd, 2009
myGengo
In this episode of Making it in Japan we’re speaking with Robert Laing and Matthew Romaine, who, along with Takeshi Amano run the Tokyo-based translation company myGengo.
Company overview: “MyGengo has offices in Tokyo and offers web-powered human translation services between English, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, and Russian.
Users submit texts to be translated via a simple web form on the myGengo website. The service then lets qualified human translators (who can apply through the site) to ‘grab’ the translation job and translate it. Customers can choose between three price levels and receive the translations via email for review.
[ref: crunchbase]”
The 25-minute interview can be broken down into three sections.
Section 1: What is myGengo?
Rob begins with an overview of the company and the gap in the market that they are serving. Matt goes on to explain the benefits for translators working with them. They also address the criticism that their affordable service is leaving professional translators without an income – hear why that isn’t the case.
We also learn about some of the more unusual jobs that they receive…
Section 2: What new services are myGengo rolling out?
What we’ve seen so far from myGengo is the just the beginning. In this interview, we hear of their plans for a number of new services set to make a significant impact upon online translation.
Using a tried and tested workflow combined with the latest technologies, myGengo will enable the fast, efficient and affordable translation of RSS feeds. They’ll also be offering a service whereby news sites / blogs and more can be translated by humans, quickly and accurately at minimal to no-cost to content producers. They’ll also be releasing tools for developers, including their API, leaving the door open for further exciting developments.
Section 3: Doing business in Japan
Rob and Matt share their experience and advice regarding setting up business in Japan.
One key factor mentioned is the support of the Tokyo tech scene / gaikokujin entrepreneur network – and believing in what you’re doing.
How to Listen
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 24:49 — 22.7MB)