Translation intermediaries are variously described as translation directory, portal, translator database, provider of translation resources, language service provider, translation marketplace, language services marketplace or simply as a translation service. They charge individual translators, translation agencies and translation companies an annual fee.

Translators bid for jobs that appear in a web site, or have them directly assigned via email by the administrators. The translation companies and agencies benefit from databases that have full details about translators’ locations, language combinations, fees charged, types of software handled and subject specialization.

The function of intermediaries is that of a link to introduce the interested parties. Once a connection has taken place, the intermediary ceases to be involved. This is to be taken into account if you require services such as proofreading and quality control.

When allocating translation work an intermediary may give preference to translators who have received a client's declaration expressing the will to deal with that person again to undertake repeat jobs.

This practice, however, does not guarantee quality work output from a translator, unless you have the means to assess it professionally by a third party.

It is worth considering that the large databases run by translation intermediaries are highly valuable to facilitate the search for translators specialized in uncommon subjects or language combinations.