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Localization Localization FAQs
Localization Localization FAQs
Localization FAQ'sWhat is localization? Why do I need it? What is the difference between localization and translation? What is the localization process? At what point should I consult a localization agency? How is localization priced? What is your quality-assurance process? How will you manage my project? Will you develop and maintain a terminology list specific to my project? What is your record for delivering on time? How accurate are your estimates? Can you provide references and examples of similarly completed projects?  What is localization? Localization means adapting documents, multimedia, and products for foreign countries so that they function and feel as if natives of the target country created them. The process includes translation and it integrates cultural and country-specific norms: use of color, graphics, symbols, humor, idiomatic expressions, holidays, date and time format, contact information, units of measurement, currency, abbreviations, etc. Why do I need it? Weigh the impact of not localizing content. Choosing not to localize certain products might offend consumers in a foreign market by not providing information in their language. Or, your product may frustrate consumers of a foreign country if it does not function like other comparable products in the local market. For instance, a car in the UK with the steering wheel on the left side would be dangerous, if not useless! Worse yet, your products might be restricted by customs or other regulatory agencies from distributing if not properly localized. Given the current trend toward globalization of our world economy, it is prudent to consult with the appropriate authorities regarding the legal implications of not localizing. What is the difference between localization and translation? Converting written text to another language is the process of translation. Translation demands that the source material be converted into the target language without particular attention paid to cultural style and subtleties. Translation is only one facet of localization, a multilayered process enlisting cultural and local functional adaptation. What is the localization process? A project manager (PM) reviews documents and multimedia for cultural and local functional specifications, date and time formatting, units of measurement requiring conversion, contact information, currency, abbreviations, use of colors and symbols, etc. The PM closely monitors the translation process, collaborating closely with translation teams in the target countries. Translation teams implement changes related to special issues discovered by the PM. Translated documents are then sent to a DTP artist or an engineer in the target country for formatting or cultural design and functional adaptation. After performing an internal review of the document or multimedia to ensure nonlinguistic standards are met, it is returned to the original translator to verify that everything is formatted and adapted correctly. Multimedia projects are sent back to the engineer and a testing phase guarantees proper function. Upon completion, the translation team reviews that everything is linguistically and culturally appropriate. At what point should I consult a localization agency? As early as possible—if you’re planning to create something that will require adaptation for a foreign audience, it’s advisable to speak to a localization expert beforehand for specific guidelines. How is localization priced? Localization is priced by the hour and by the word. The best way to get an accurate and detailed quote is to email your documents or multimedia before the project begins so that we may assess its complexity and scope. A quote will be sent to you within 24 hours. *Additional factors that may affect cost: language(s), subject matter, turnaround, output, availability of original files, graphics, and engineering required, testing What is your quality-assurance process? Translation QA is followed by multimedia testing to ensure it is functioning properly, or by testing a document on a representative group of target audience. Please visit our quality assurance page for an in-depth overview. How will you manage my project? A project manager is assigned to your project and is your one point of contact throughout the process. Your project is managed through our advanced project management system Avantflow. Please visit our online project management page for more information on this exciting tool. Will you develop and maintain a terminology list specific to my project? Terminology lists or glossaries are not necessary for every project. If you have a large volume of reoccurring projects, we recommend that you create one. A glossary is the foundation for consistent and accurate translations for the long-run. What is your record for delivering on time? We are always on time, even under tight deadlines. Contact us to find out how we can assist you within your timeframe. How accurate are your estimates? Generally, they are very accurate. The more information you provide upfront, the more accurate our estimate will be. Factoring in language(s), subject matter, turnaround, deliverables, availability of original files, and graphics translation, we do our very best to stick to the original estimate given. If we feel that the project might go over budget, the client is always consulted before we proceed. Can you provide references and examples of similarly completed projects? Absolutely! We encourage you to visit our clients’ page or use the contact form for direct reference.
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