The practice of determining cost based on the number of words in a document is a common pricing model within the language services industry. For instance, a translator might quote $0.10 for each word in a Spanish document needing to be converted into English. The total fee is calculated by multiplying the rate by the word count of the original text.
This method provides transparency and predictability for both clients and translation providers. It allows clients to estimate costs upfront based on the size of their projects. The historical context stems from a need for a standardized and easily understood system in an increasingly globalized world. Its benefits include simplified budgeting and clear communication regarding project expenses.