Start with the destination
Workflow choice begins with intended use. Internal material read by a small expert team has a different risk profile from a patient leaflet, legal filing or campaign headline.
Define what ‘good enough’ means before comparing cost or turnaround. Otherwise, a cheaper production step can create an expensive review cycle.
Where MTPE can work
Consistent, well-structured source content is often a stronger candidate. Repetition, established terminology and a suitable engine can make post-editing efficient—provided the output still receives the agreed human attention.
Where human translation is safer
Human-only workflows are usually more appropriate when content is highly creative, legally consequential, clinically sensitive or restricted from third-party processing. They are also valuable when the source depends on implication, humour or brand voice.
Ask for a recommendation you can inspect
A credible recommendation should state the proposed technology, human-review level, confidentiality assumptions and expected finish. It should also leave room for a sample before large-volume production.