Language Localization is More Than Translation

Derived from the Latin locus (place) and the English locale (a place where something is set), “localization” describes the process of adapting a product into different languages for a specific country or region.

Localization goes well beyond the process of simple translation. It covers a wide range of activities focusing on the differences between the original and target cultures and the best possible ways to correctly adapt the product – usually software, video games, websites, video or multimedia content – to the needs of the local market.

The Localization Industry Standards Association (LISA) explains the localization process as involving, among other things, linguistic, physical, business-related, cultural and technical issues.

Testing is an inseparable part of the localization process. It not only ensures quality, but also reassures clients that their product works properly and meets expectations.

Although it is sometimes difficult to draw a line between translation and localization, one of localization’s distinguishing factors is its ability to adapt a variety of non-textual factors, such as graphics, local currencies, addresses, phone numbers, time and date formats, colors and other details.

Writing for Localization:

–          Avoid country-specific information, such as 800 telephone numbers, US-specific warranties and regulations, format of hours of operation, listing US customer support offices instead of those in the target country, etc.

–          Whenever possible, avoid acronyms and abbreviations. If you must use them, write out the entire phrase on first occurrence, followed by the abbreviation or acronym in parentheses. It will also help to create a list of acronyms with abbreviations.

–          Be aware that numerical values use different rules of expression in different languages. For instance, $17,345,175.00  will be written as $17.345.175,00  in Spanish and as $17 345 175,00 in French.

–          Find out about time, date and address formats, which will also differ from country to country. Many use the 24-hour clock format and you will discover, for instance, that in European countries the day is listed first, rather than the month. That way, 10/22/2007 will become 22-10-2007.

Layout /Design Considerations:

–          Design for the country where you will print. For instance, replace 8.5 x 11 size with A4 if you will be printing in France or Germany.

–          Be sure all special characters and diacritical marks display correctly.

–          Be aware that translated text might be of different length. Compared to English, Spanish will be about 20-30% longer. On the other hand, Asian languages will generally be shorter.

–          In case of software, leave extra room in buttons, prompts and any notifications or messages.

–          Avoid using text in graphics (it will be difficult to localize it) and do provide all graphics to translators, as they represent an important visual reference that will help them translate properly.

The goal of translation is to deliver the message. The goal of localization is the same, while avoiding conflict with local culture, customs, habits and sensitivities. Localization reduces time-to-market and ensures that a product enters the market smoothly, closely attuned to its needs and wants. While the tips above will help you get going on the road to proper localization, it might be a good idea to enlist the help of a professional translation service. That provider will be able to determine issues and suggest solutions to you before it is too late – changes are costly. A provider’s assistance will help improve your results and save you money.