Frequently Asked Questions

Translation and Localization

What is the standard localization process and why is not translating enough?

A product that has been properly localized has the look and feel of a product originally written and designed for the target culture. Here are just some items that, aside from language, have to be considered in order to effectively localize a product or website. It is the measuring units, number formats, address formats, time and date format (long and short), paper sizes, fonts, default font selection, case differences, character set, tables for sorting, word separators, local regulations, copyright issues, data protection, payments, currency conversion, taxes...
The standard localization process includes the following basic steps:

  • Analysis and evaluation of the necessary resources, tools and research, based on the material received
  • Creation and maintenance of terminology glossaries; cultural, technical and linguistic assessment
  • Text translation, review by a second linguist, and proofreading to ensure quality and consistency
  • Resizing of the user interface
  • Localization of graphics, movies, scripts or any other media containing visible text and user interface
  • Documentation layout
  • Compilation and build of the localized files for testing
  • Linguistic and functional quality assurance
  • Project delivery

Depending on the project size and complexity, this process may require the coordination of different professionals: Account Manager, Project Manager, Translators, Proofreaders, Engineers, Desktop Publishers, and QA Testers. Certain projects may also require assessment by experts in the field.

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Frequently Asked Questions