Software localization is the process of adapting programs and applications to the country or region where they will be used. On the one hand, software localization can be represented as a maximally adapted but accurate translation that considers the region’s national characteristics. However, localization is wider than translation alone.
They localize foreign products for sale on the domestic market and domestic software for foreign consumers. Despite the fact that today, any program can be downloaded from the Internet and understood intuitively, the presence of a localized version greatly influences the prevalence and popularity of the program in a particular country.
What is software localization?
Localization aims to make software natural and usable for people who speak a different language and come from different cultures.
Microsoft, one of the pioneering companies that developed the concept of localization, believes that “product localization requires that the product be adapted to both the language and culture of a specific market. The final localized version of the original product should look and feel as if it were developed in the user’s home country.”
Therefore, localization goes beyond simply translating text. It involves modifying various software elements so that it is understandable, culturally relevant, and functionally appropriate for users in the target region. This process considers several factors, including language, cultural norms, date and time formats, currency conversion symbols, units of measurement, legal requirements, and more.
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Interface translation
Translating the program interface is one of the key aspects of localization. The client must pay attention to the quality of the translation and ensure that it accurately conveys the meaning and intentions of the original text.
It is also essential to take into account local language features such as grammar, punctuation rules, and cultural nuances. To achieve the best result, it is recommended to involve professional translators specializing in software localization.
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Adaptation of functionality
When localizing software, it is necessary to adapt the product’s functionality to a specific region’s requirements. For example, some countries use different measurement conversion systems and currencies, so it is essential to provide options for selecting the appropriate options.
You may also need to change the date, time, and phone number formats to suit local standards.
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Content adaptation
Adapting program content is also an important aspect of localization. This includes translating text materials such as instructions, help, and error messages. It is essential to ensure that the translated content is correct and understandable for users in the target audience.
You should also be culturally sensitive and avoid using language that may be inappropriate or unclear to local users.
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Testing
Testing is an integral part of the software localization process. The customer must thoroughly test the product to ensure all functions and translations work correctly. Testing will also allow you to identify and correct possible errors and problems associated with adapting the product to a specific environment.
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Cultural sensitivity
When localizing software, it is important to consider users’ cultural characteristics and preferences from different countries. For example, colors, symbols, and images can have different meanings and associations in different cultures. Differences in user behavior and software usage preferences should also be considered.
Localization of units of measurement
For example, it is customary in English to write fractions separated by a period, and in other countries, they are separated by a comma. If, when introducing English-language software that uses a non-metric measurement system to the European market, you do not convert inches and feet to centimeters and meters, this may negatively affect the ease of interaction with this software. In what format will the software display dates? This must be considered because the format is very different in different countries. What about unit conversion of measurement? For example, translators use specially designed tables for converting units of measurement into the metric conversion system. For calculations, it is better to use the free online service OneConvert, and, moreover, for quick calculations in the metric online conversion or imperial system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, software localization is essential for successful product implementation in the international market. Customers must consider key aspects of localization, such as interface translation, functionality and content adaptation, testing, and cultural sensitivity. Following these guidelines will help create a user-friendly and understandable product for users from different countries and cultures.