Arabicization of IT Service Management Terminology (ITSM): Introduction to ITIL as a Case Study

Abstract

As a result of continuous advancements in the field of Information Technology (IT), many concepts are being introduced. Given that most renderings focused on subfields including: web technologies, applications, and other various IT subjects, less attempts are made within new interdisciplinary sub-fields. Specifically, within IT Service Management (ITSM), consistent terminology has been established in many languages such as English and Dutch. However, for Arabic language, keeping up with this newly introduced field is tardily progressing. This study aims to investigate ITSM arabicized terminology using the book Introduction to ITIL and the edited Arabic version, أساسيات إدارة خدمة تقنية المعلومات المستندة على آيتيل )مكتبة البنية التحتية لتقنية المعلومات (ITIL), as a case study to answer questions around the translation strategies adopted to deal with ITSM terminology, the most frequently used strategies, and how are the problematic aspects of ITSM terms dealt with? The selection of terms is based on frequency of occurrences. Terms are studied at a lexical level and translation strategies are identified. The findings of this study are presented in terms of a general discussion of translation strategies within which variations are found. Mainly, calque is found as the most used strategy while other strategies included: literal, modulation, borrowing, explicitation, omission, and expanding. A combination of more than one strategy and multiplicity of Arabic suggested terms are also found. In dealing with abbreviations, omission is mostly used. Considering the importance of this newly found field, it is vital for more arabicization initiatives to be held. Standardization of ITSM terminology is also crucial, leading to the unification of terms and concepts among languages. The existing Arabic version of the book needs to be revised before republication.