Localization Solutions – Why and when?

If your company wishes to explore business opportunities in other countries, it is very important to use the correct localization solutions. This is the type of software that will translate applications for computers and such from one language to another. If done improperly, the meaning may be completely lost. For, the translation requires not only a good basic understanding of the language, but also of the culture for the region the translation. The same word in one region may have a completely different meaning in another region.

Localization Solutions – Why

There is also a need for understanding the technical aspect of the translation. The translator must also understand software structure. There may be some technical codes in or around the text to be translated. If this portion of the text is translated, there is a good possibility the code will experience errors. For those who have translated numerous times, it becomes second nature to know which portions are the code that should not be touched and what portions are the words for the applications that need to be translated. Therefore, it is recommended that the translator be chosen wisely, as in most cases, a translator has little understanding of the software workings.

Those who are translating the text may find it helpful to use a software that incorporates a tool specifically for localization. These types of software are actually able to recognize which portions is text for the application and which portions are software code running the application. The use of this software allows the translator to focus on the portions that need to be translated and ignore the software codes without worry of mixing them up. This allows companies to gain a better translator, instead of having to find one who knows the software codes but is marginal in translation skills.

In order for the translation to take place successfully, it is important to follow a few steps:
First, have the ability to adapt the software to other countries. This is essential. This makes the software more neutral, having no cultural aspects associated with it. This is often referred to internationalization of specific software.

Next, a set of definitions must be made. It is a lot more beneficial to have numerous dictionaries, one for each region, than to have one common dictionary for many regions. There is a smaller chance for translations to be improperly made. It also makes the localization software easier to use.

Then there is the cultural aspect. This is one that must be cared for in great detail. Not only do you need to know the calendar of events, but you must also be aware of is taboo for any given region. What works for one place, might not just around the corner.

So, companies that wish to expand their horizons across the globe must realize that when it comes to electronics, this means a bit more preparation than figuring out trading expectations with those countries. A computer or other electronic device must be adapted, not only for the language, but also its culture and an entire different set of meanings.

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