What Is MQM Core?
MQM Core is an updated, streamlined version of translation error classification that merges the original MQM with the widely used DQF (Dynamic Quality Framework, a TAUS standard) into a single taxonomy. Before the merger, MQM and DQF were similar but not identical systems — companies using one framework couldn't directly compare their scores to scores produced under the other.
MQM Core is aligned with the ISO 5060 standard — meaning its error categories speak the same language as the standard's requirements.
Why MQM and DQF Needed to Merge
Both frameworks solved the same problem — classifying translation errors by type and severity — but diverged in category details and terminology. Two similar but not interchangeable systems coexisting created a practical problem: the industry couldn't agree on a shared language for describing translation quality, and comparing metrics across companies using different frameworks required manual mapping between categories.
How MQM Core Differs from the Original MQM
MQM Core keeps the original MQM's basic logic — a hierarchy of error categories (accuracy, fluency, terminology, style) and a severity-weighted scoring system — but simplifies and refines specific categories based on years of practical experience with both frameworks, and brings its terminology in line with ISO 5060.
What the Transition Means in Practice
For companies already using MQM, moving to MQM Core mainly means reconciling their internal error categories against the updated taxonomy — the core scoring mechanics (a sum of penalties weighted against text volume) don't change. For companies using DQF, the transition means the same thing from the other side. The end result is comparability: two providers, both compliant with MQM Core, are now using literally the same set of categories.
FAQ
Do I need to drop old MQM in favor of MQM Core?
Formally, old MQM continues to exist, but MQM Core is the current, maintained version aligned with ISO 5060, so it makes sense to start any new implementation there directly.
Does DQF no longer exist?
DQF as a separate brand merged into the unified MQM Core taxonomy — its ideas didn't disappear, they became part of the combined framework.
Does the scoring formula change under MQM Core?
The core principle — a sum of severity-weighted error penalties relative to text volume — stays the same; what's refined is mainly the categories and their descriptions, not the arithmetic itself.
How does MQM Core relate to GEMBA-MQM?
GEMBA-MQM is a way to get MQM-compatible error annotation from an LLM instead of a human; which specific version of the taxonomy (original MQM or MQM Core) is used is a matter of how a given evaluation system is configured.
Do I have to use MQM Core specifically, rather than my own company's system?
No, but using an industry-recognized taxonomy aligned with ISO 5060 makes it easier to compare against other providers and communicate with clients familiar with the standard.