What Is a Translation Workflow in a CMS?
IntermediateQuick Answer
TL;DR
A translation workflow in a CMS is the structured process that moves content from its source language through translation, review, and publication in one or more target languages. It defines who does what at each stage, what tools are involved, and how content status is tracked. Workflows typically progress through states: **needs translation → in translation → in review → published**. Without a defined workflow, translation becomes ad hoc, error-prone, and impossible to scale.
Key Takeaways
- A translation workflow defines stages, responsibilities, and tools for moving content from source language to published translations.
- Common workflow states: needs translation, in translation, in review, published — each with a clear owner.
- Three main approaches: manual (editors translate in the CMS), machine translation (DeepL, Google Translate), and professional services via a TMS.
- Translation management systems like Smartling, Lokalise, and Phrase integrate with CMS platforms to automate content handoffs.
- Content updates in the source language should automatically trigger re-translation flags to prevent stale translations.