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The Stack Overflow Podcast

“Translation is the tip of the iceberg”: A deep dive into specialty models

Feb 28, 2025
Olga Barogovaya, VP of AI at Smartling and expert in AI-powered translation solutions, discusses the evolution of natural language processing from rule-based systems to specialized machine learning models. She highlights the importance of fine-tuning in translation and the role of human translators. The conversation covers the advantages of specialized models in various sectors like healthcare and the complexities of handling personally identifiable information. Olga also addresses the challenges of translation workflows in business, emphasizing the need for human oversight.
31:28

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Quick takeaways

  • The evolution of language models from rule-based systems to AI-driven techniques has significantly enhanced translation accuracy and industry-specific applications.
  • Despite advancements in AI translation, human linguists remain essential for ensuring cultural context and quality, particularly in nuanced languages.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Language Models

The use of language models has evolved significantly from early rule-based systems to modern machine learning techniques. Initial approaches focused on structural linguistics and rule-based translations, while recent advancements leverage transformer models for improved natural language processing. The timeline of this evolution highlights the impact of foundational models and their roles in tasks like translation and sentiment analysis since their introduction around 2017. These advancements have facilitated the development of specialized language models that cater to specific industries, enhancing performance and efficiency.

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