Insights from The 2025 Nimdzi 100
The Nimdzi 100 report for 2025 isn’t just a leaderboard—it’s a wake-up call. AI is here. The rules are changing. And simply “getting words across” isn’t enough anymore.
Here’s what we learned, what caught our attention, and why we think the future of translation looks both exciting and demanding.
Smarter Growth, Not Just Bigger Numbers
The global language services industry hit $71.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $75.7 billion in 2025. But the nature of growth has shifted from raw volume to smart, strategic decisions.
Companies are now prioritizing:
- What’s worth localizing?
- What can be automated?
- How can we go faster without sacrificing quality?
It’s growth that asks better questions—and that’s good for everyone.
AI Becomes Embedded, Not Optional
AI is now central to workflows across LSPs—from QA to multimedia localization. But despite the power of automation, it’s clear: the human touch still matters.
Creativity, cultural context, and real-world nuance remain critical—especially for linguistically complex or high-impact content.
Per-Word Pricing Is Fading
The industry is steadily moving away from traditional per-word pricing. Why? Because clients increasingly value outcomes over output.
One strategic tagline may have far more business value than five pages of technical documentation.
New pricing models are emerging that better reflect effort, expertise, and content impact.
The Rise of the Agile Mid-Sized LSP
Some of the most dynamic players on the Nimdzi 100 aren’t the biggest—they’re mid-sized, tech-driven providers who can scale quickly while staying flexible.
This adaptability allows them to balance technology with personal service and niche specialization.
Content Explosion: Cheaper to Create, Harder to Perfect
AI is lowering barriers to content creation and localization, which means businesses are producing more than ever—from UI elements to short-form videos to multilingual chatbots.
However, brand voice and cultural authenticity still require human refinement—especially in emotionally resonant or customer-facing content.
Interpreting Quietly Gains Momentum
While translation tech grabs headlines, interpreting services are expanding fast—particularly in healthcare, crisis response, and public services.
Even with AI assistance, the need for skilled human interpreters in high-stakes situations remains non-negotiable.
Talent Crunch in Specialized Fields
As fewer people enter the translation profession, demand is rising for linguists with domain-specific expertise in fields like legal, medical, and transcreation.
Automation supports volume work, but true quality still hinges on human skill, experience, and understanding.
Final Thought: Tech Moves Fast. So Must We.
The industry is evolving: tools are smarter, expectations are higher, and tolerance for error is shrinking.
To stay ahead, LSPs need to combine technology, talent, and purpose. The future belongs to those who stay curious, stay flexible, and stay human.
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About Pro Translasi
Pro Translasi is an English<>Indonesian specialist LSP focused on high-quality localization, transcreation, and content strategy.
We blend smart technology with experienced linguists to deliver precision, speed, and culturally relevant communication.
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protranslasi.com | It’s All About Quality and Experience!
See our previous blog post on “MTPE: When and How to Add Human QA”.