Factory, dialogue, or network? Competing translation practices in BBC transcultural journalism | Culture and communication in digital worlds

Author(s): Aneta Podkalicka

Year of publication: 2011

Keywords: Media translation, Conceptual metaphors, Dialogue, Interlingual journalism, Transcultural journalism, International broadcasting, BBC World Service

Methodology/Sample: _/_

Reference: Podkalicka, A. (2011). Factory, dialogue, or network? Competing translation practices in BBC transcultural journalism. Journalism, 12(2), 143-152. https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1464884910388583

Abstract

Drawing on interdisciplinary theories of translation and empirical research into the BBC World Service, I propose a set of three conceptual metaphors to model media-based translation work. ‘Factory’, ‘dialogue’ and ‘network’ can each serve as a metaphor for the processes of interlingual and transcultural journalism by international broadcasters. Rather than periodizing these historically, I propose that all three metaphors, from the Fordist centralized factory via the user-friendly dialogue rhetoric to the seemingly power-free digital network, can best be seen as concurrent and competing journalistic processes in daily dynamic interaction, whether they concern centralized practices or user-generated contents.

> Summary

The paper explores translation processes at the BBC World Service using metaphors: ‘Factory’, ‘dialogue’, and ‘network’.
It highlights the importance of multilingual content for global audiences and the role of translation in the digital economy.
The paper discusses challenges faced by smaller language services in producing original content due to limited resources.
It emphasizes the need for independent editorial input amidst increasing audience-created content.
The relocation of language services has impacted collaboration and communication among staff.

> Problem statement

The paper discusses the negative implications of reduced staff at Bush House on the BBC World Service’s work culture.
It highlights the challenges of maintaining independent editorial input amidst increasing audience-created content.
The relocation of language services has affected collaboration and participation in meetings.
There is a tension between traditional translation practices and modern networked communication.
The need for sensitive translation processes in a globalized context is emphasized.
The abstract identifies competing metaphors of ‘factory’, ‘dialogue’, and ‘network’ in journalism as concurrent challenges.

> Methods used

The paper employs interdisciplinary theories of translation to analyze media-based translation work at the BBC World Service.
It proposes three conceptual metaphors: ‘factory’, ‘dialogue’, and ‘network’ to model translation processes.
Empirical research into the BBC World Service informs the analysis of translation practices.

> Practical implications

The paper highlights the need for independent editorial input amidst increased audience-created content in international broadcasting.
It emphasizes the importance of multilingual digital content for engaging global audiences.
The relocation of language services may negatively impact collaboration and idea sharing among staff.
Enhanced local content and collaborative media can foster personalized connections with audiences.
The paper proposes three metaphors for understanding media-based translation work, which can inform practices in journalism.