They work with content management systems (CMS) as separate, but linked programs or as simple add-ons that can answer specific multilingual requirements.
The measurable benefits of using a TMS are similar to those found in a CMS, but with a multilingual twist:[4] the localization workflow is automated, thus reducing management and overhead costs and time for everyone involved; localization costs are reduced, time to market is decreased and translation quality improves; with the evolution of cloud computing, projects can be launched from any corporate location instead of one centralized headquarters; finally, the cooperation between headquarters, third party vendors, and national branches increases thanks to more thorough reporting.
A typical TMS workflow goes through the following steps: Change detection of updated or new materials is a must either with standard off-the-shelf CMSs or with the use of custom-developed connectors in the case of proprietary systems.
Every participant in the workflow receives a notification where there is new work to be done, and a unique number is assigned to every project and every task for traceability.
The latter is commonly referred to as a captive solution, meaning that buyers must use the TMS developer's language services in order to take advantage of their platform.
Many LSPs got nervous when SDL bought Trados in 2005, becoming the biggest translation technology provider, while still having language services as part of their activities.