The paper focuses on different approaches to modeling translation process. It argues that those models which have been developed within conventional translation theory as well as some contemporary approaches fail to unveil the very dynamics of translating. In order to construct an activity-focused model which algorithmizes the steps made by a translator when effecting translation and account for his/her translation-related choices one may consider adopting the concepts and foundations of the theory of autopoiesis. This methodological framework enables the researcher to construct a translation model with a focus on the translator whose ability to prioritize and choose between various factors is key for translation process. These arguments are further supported by a brief analysis of several translations of one text.