The Language Translation Process in Survey Research: A Cost Analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to conduct a cost analysis from an institutional perspective of translating an English-language survey instrument to Spanish. The authors conduct a process flow analysis of the steps required to create and validate a 30-page survey instrument with 211 items. The identified steps in the translation process cost $10,426. Personnel and overhead account for 60% and 33%, respectively, of the total costs. The detailed process of translating an English-language survey instrument to Spanish can be expensive but may be a critical component for the validity of a research study.