In today’s translation world, technology and creativity are joining forces like never before. Gabriel Fairman, CEO of Bureau Works, shares his thoughts on how AI and human translators can work together to create something powerful and unique.
“The human translator is still very much the author,” Gabriel says, comparing their role to a movie director.
They are not just translating—they are leading a creative process with many moving parts.
A New Way to Collaborate
Gabriel explains that true synergy begins with the right tools. This is more than just ChatGPT or simple language models. Instead, imagine a workspace like Google Docs or a translator’s workbench, but smarter. These platforms are filled with “advisers”—AI tools offering suggestions and insights.
Here’s how this works:
“It’s not something simple. It requires a lot of different skill sets from the translator.” - Gabriel emphasizes.
Translators as Directors
Gabriel likens the translator’s role to directing a movie. A director works with many experts—actors, writers, and camera operators—to create their vision. Similarly, translators today manage multiple inputs and decide how to use them.
“They’re directing all kinds of people. They’re working with the scriptwriters, the producers, the actors. They’re directing this multi-modal, multi-dimensional project.” - Gabriel says.
This means translators are no longer just writing words—they’re shaping entire projects.
The Beauty of Synergy
At the heart of this process is a balance. AI offers tools and knowledge, but humans keep control. This keeps translations personal, creative, and flexible.
Gabriel describes the result as:
“the beauty that can be produced out of this synergy between AI and human translators.”
By combining creativity with advanced tools, translators can deliver work that is richer and more meaningful than ever before.
Key Takeaways
Gabriel’s insights highlight the exciting possibilities ahead:
This partnership is changing the industry. Translators are stepping into roles that are creative, strategic, and highly collaborative. As Gabriel says,
“It’s that central piece of directing that will emerge from this synergy.”
By embracing these tools and ideas, translators can unlock new potential and redefine what’s possible in their work.