Our clients often ask us why we talk about localization when they just need translation of their software, mobile apps, healthcare devices, websites, or e-commerce platforms. Our answer is that mere translation of such solutions is not enough because it can lead to incorrect use of the functionalities and consequently dissatisfaction on the part of your users or customers.
This is where localization comes in. Localization is important because it ensures that your product or solution resonates with users on a deeper level, fostering trust and engagement. We’re telling you this because we want you to find the best approach for your translation needs.
Client story: An Australian company expands to Europe with our help
An Australian company, new to the European market, sought our assistance in translating their web shop into German, French, and Slovenian. They were unfamiliar with the process and required guidance on content transfer, translation integration, user manuals, warranty content, and more. We guided them through the entire process.
We streamlined the content transfer process, enabling swift translation and integration back into the web shop. The client simply selected the products for sale, and we handled the rest.
Collaborating with local legal experts, we prepared EU-compliant instructions and warranties tailored to the markets where they wanted to sell their products.
Our turnkey localization service ensured a seamless expansion process, akin to buying a house ready for moving in.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LOCALIZATION
We don’t want to overwhelm our visitors or clients with technical details. But if you’re not familiar with localization, the explanations below can help you find the best solutions for your desired markets.
Localization is quite often used interchangeably with translation, globalization, and internationalization. While these terms are related, they have distinct meanings:
Translation: Simply converting text from one language to another
Globalization: The process of designing products, services, and operations to be adaptable to different markets worldwide
Internationalization: Preparing a product or service so that it can be localized without major changes
Localization actually complements these processes by ensuring that the adapted content is culturally appropriate and tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the target market.
In localization, it is crucial to pay close attention to the following:
Visuals and Formats: Ensuring that images, icons, and layouts are culturally relevant and consistent with local design preferences
Local Currencies and Dates: Displaying prices, dates, and time formats in a manner that aligns with local standards and expectations
Legal Requirements: Adhering to local laws, regulations, and privacy policies applicable to the target market
Local Social Proof: Incorporating testimonials, reviews, and endorsements from users in the target region to build credibility and trust
Software Codes: Modifying code elements to ensure compatibility with local languages, character sets, and display requirements
How to prevent localization pitfalls
Plan Early
Initiate planning early to allocate sufficient time, resources, and budget for localization efforts.
Partner with Experts
Collaborate with a reputable localization company with proven experience in your industry and target markets.
Leverage Localization Tools
Utilize translation management systems (TMS) and localization testing tools to streamline the localization process.
Thorough Testing
Conduct rigorous testing to ensure localized content is accurate, functional, and culturally appropriate.
By addressing these considerations and implementing the recommended strategies, you can successfully localize your software, mobile apps, healthcare devices, websites, and e-commerce platforms, fostering meaningful connections with global audiences.
LANGUAGES
We are here for you if you want to conquer the Central and Eastern European markets. Or the whole world from Central and Eastern Europe.
If you don‘t find the language combination you‘re looking for, please contact us.
