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DeepL Report: Manual Translation Processes Stifling Enterprises

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming essential for streamlined operations, a recent report from DeepL uncovers a surprising reality: many companies are still heavily reliant on manual translation processes, which significantly hinders their growth potential. Released on March 10, 2026, the 2026 Language AI Report titled Borderless Business: Transforming Translation in the Age of AI, provides valuable insights based on surveys from business leaders across five key countries: the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan.

Key Findings of the Report

The findings reveal that a substantial portion of global enterprises have not fully harnessed the power of AI in their language operations. Notably, 35% of businesses still depend exclusively on manual workflows for their translations. This means that critical global operations are often slow and inefficient due to outdated practices. Additionally, only 17% of the respondents reported implementing advanced AI tools, such as large language models (LLMs), designed to enhance translation processes. Meanwhile, 33% utilize traditional automation systems that still involve significant human oversight.

Pressure to Innovate

Despite this reliance on manual methods, 33% of respondents indicated that global expansion is the primary driver for exploring language AI technologies. This suggests a growing acknowledgment of the need for innovative solutions to meet the demands of an increasingly interconnected business landscape. Jarek Kutylowski, CEO and Founder of DeepL, emphasizes that while AI may be present at some level in these organizations, the core workflows remain primarily human-focused rather than optimized for automation. He stresses that transforming these workflows is critical to achieving substantial productivity gains.

Impact Across Business Functions

The report illustrates that translation has become a crucial operational component across various business functions. Enterprises noted the strongest impacts in:

• - Sales and Marketing (26%): Effective communication is vital for reaching wider audiences and improving sales conversions.
• - Customer Support (23%): Language barriers can lead to customer dissatisfaction, making efficient translation essential.
• - Legal and Finance (22%): Multilingual documentation requires precise translation to mitigate risks and ensure compliance.

Acknowledgment of the Need for Change

Interestingly, 71% of business leaders surveyed stated that workflow transformation with AI is a top priority for the coming years. This sentiment reflects a mounting pressure on organizations to demonstrate measurable returns on investments related to AI technologies, particularly in translation services. Companies are increasingly aware that the integration of AI should extend beyond simple tool deployment; it also requires a rethinking of organizational processes and operational frameworks.

Harry Witzthum, Chief of Digital Transformation and AI at Caritas, adds that reforming organizational models to align with AI capabilities is crucial for reaping its benefits. He notes that translating technologies alone is insufficient; companies must scrutinize their overall business strategies to ensure they are conducive to leveraging AI's full potential.

Conclusion: Embracing Change for Progress

The DeepL report serves as a wake-up call for enterprises still tangled in manual translation processes. As businesses navigate the complexities of a globalized market, shifting towards AI-powered translation systems is more important than ever. Embracing such innovations promises not only to enhance operational efficiency but also significantly improve customer experience and product delivery timelines. With a growing number of organizations prioritizing AI integration, the future of translation looks set to evolve—though it may take time for many to fully transition from traditional methods.

For a more in-depth look at the findings, the full report is accessible at DeepL Reports.

About DeepL

Founded in 2017, DeepL has established itself as a leader in AI-driven language solutions, offering intelligent translation tools trusted by over 200,000 businesses globally. With a dedicated team of more than 1,000 employees, DeepL continues to innovate and expand its offerings, promising to transform how enterprises and individuals approach language in the digital age.