See also:

• Translation Theory and Practice
• Types of Translation
• Typical Procedures
• Team Roles

The Goals of Translation in SIL

• SIL trains members of SIL and others to carry out field work, including language learning, linguistic analysis, literacy, Bible translation and distribution, community development, and cultural studies.
  
• SIL is fully committed to a scholarly approach to the translation of the Scriptures and to carrying out its translation work in cooperation with others.
  
• Depending on local circumstances, SIL will normally commit itself to be involved in working towards one of the following translation goals in a specific language:

1. Some Old Testament and some New Testament books or selections.
2. Some Old Testament books or selections and a complete New Testament.
3. A complete Bible.

• The extent of SIL's involvement and the specific Scripture translation goals for each language will be decided in close interaction, wherever feasible, with church and community leaders and other groups or organizations with whom we are working in partnership. Tentative goals will be established initially and reviewed periodically.
  
• SIL may also assist in the translation of other works that contribute to community development, such as educational and health materials.

See also team roles and procedures in Bible translation.