/

Standardization vs localization: What to choose?

When it comes to marketing and selling products in new markets, a critical question arises: how do you balance consistency with cultural sensitivity? Two approaches stand out: standardization and localization. Read on as we uncover the pros and cons of each approach, analyze how major corporations are navigating this landscape, leaving you to decide on […]

/

Color symbolism in the localization industry

Color symbolism is the layer of meaning we attach to colors. It’s how colors trigger certain emotions or ideas in us, and this can vary dramatically across cultures. What might be seen as a positive and auspicious color in one place could hold negative connotations in another. This is why it’s so important to discuss […]

What is Machine Translation Quality Estimation?

Machine translation (MT) has become a game-changer, allowing us to instantly understand information in different languages. But how can we know if an automatically generated text is actually accurate and conveys our message effectively? You can think of Machine Translation Quality Estimation (MTQE) like a quality control inspector for your translations, except this inspector is […]

/

About the localization editor role

Not your typical translator, a localization editor goes through all translated content to ensure it resonates, feels natural, and avoids any cultural faux pas. And that’s just scratching the surface. If you want to learn more about this role, keep on reading. Whether you’re curious about the localization process or considering a career in this […]

/

About the localization translator role

A localization translators isn’t your typical translator. These tech-savvy language lovers have the task of weaving words that resonate across borders. Their job is to hit the right note and make products and ideas click with audiences worldwide. In this article, we’ll explore the skills that empower them, the tools they use, and – for […]

/

eLearning localization: Supercharge your courses

eLearning platforms offer a dynamic and accessible way for people around the world to gain knowledge and skills. But what if those materials aren’t in a learner’s native language, or doesn’t resonate with their cultural background? Thankfully, through a process called eLearning localization, organizations can adapt their online courses for a global audience. Here’s what […]

/

UX localization: How to get started

When crafting the perfect app, you need to ensure it’s intuitive and user-friendly not just for local users but also for your international audience. It’s not enough to simply translate the original text, you need to understand cultural quirks, color symbolism, and even how people read from left to right or right to left. Intrigued? […]

/

About the localization writer role

A localization writer is one of the people behind the localization scene, a wordsmith capable of making products and content feel natural in any culture. Interested in becoming one or simply curious to see what this role entails? Read on as we discuss their educational background, responsibilities, skills, and what tools they use in their […]

/

Conlangs in the landscape of localization

Localization relies heavily on understanding the nuances of language. But what if the target audience speaks a language that doesn’t naturally exist in our world? Conlangs possess complex grammar, vocabulary, and sometimes even writing systems, thus presenting multiple challenges when it comes to translation. Let’s see how these constructed words influence the way we approach […]

/

15 Internationalization best practices

As previously discussed in our articles, internationalization (i18n) lays the foundation for localization and is one of the factors that determine whether or not your software is ready for localization. This being said, it’s important to explore the internationalization best practices; a well-crafted approach ensures a seamless and culturally sensitive user experience. Character encoding and […]

/

Localization readiness: Are you prepared?

The term “localization readiness” is pretty self-explanatory. It refers to the state of preparedness of an organization or product for the process of localization. So, are you ready to effectively adapt your product or service for different international markets? Let’s find out. Here are some of the technical, cultural, and strategic considerations you need to […]

/

E-commerce localization: Benefits and how to

By 2027, global e-commerce sales are expected to exceed a staggering $8 trillion, signifying a massive 61.1% increase from 2021. In this booming market, however, simply having an online store isn’t enough. To capture a slice of this global sales pie, you need to speak the language of your international customers. This is where e-commerce […]

/

Factors that influence localization cost

There’s no doubt that you’re eager to reach new markets and engage diverse audiences, but this comes with a range of considerations, and localization cost is one of the most significant. Before you get started, it’s important to learn about the factors influencing the final localization cost. Here are a few things you need to […]

/

The role of pivot languages in localization

Have you ever found yourself struggling with a direct translation? Sometimes, you need a linguistic intermediary to save the day. Pivot languages are real lifesavers, connecting languages that might seem worlds apart. Through a method called pivot translation, you can use a pivot language to to bridge the gap between the source and target languages. […]

/

Applications of machine translation in localization

There’s no denying that machine translation (MT) is on a roll. It has become an indispensable tool for both personal and business purposes. When it comes to localization, MT is a powerful tool that helps companies with a global customer base or those targeting specific international markets. But what can it do, specifically? Read on […]

/

Hyper-localization: What it is, best practices, and more

One size does not fit all, and brands that are aware of this are no longer spreading the same message to everyone. Instead, they are catering to the specific needs, preferences, and even dialects of individual communities, neighborhoods, and more. Hyper-localization is an exciting approach that fosters deeper connections, increased engagement, and powerful brand loyalty. […]

/

What is glocalization?

The concept of glocalization is particularly relevant in today’s world, where businesses often operate on a global scale but need to be responsive to the unique characteristics of different regions and communities. But what does it mean, exactly? Overview Defining glocalization Glocalization, or glocalisation, is a term that combines “globalization” and “localization” to describe a […]

/

About the localization specialist role

A localization specialist works tirelessly to craft and adapt content. But as you will come to find out, their expertise extends beyond linguistic boundaries. Below, we discuss the responsibilities of localization specialists, how to become one, and the tools they use in their work. Overview What is a localization specialist? A localization specialist is a […]

/

The use of namespaces in localization

In localization (l10n) and internationalization (i18n) , namespaces serve several important purposes. This hierarchical structure organizes translated content into logical groups. We will be discussing how they work and what are the benefits of using namespaces in localization. What are namespaces in localization? In the context of code, namespaces are often used to avoid naming […]

/

Locale vs language: Learn the differences

Are you using language and locale interchangeably, or struggle to understand the differences between the two? You should know that these terms refer to different aspects of communication, especially in the context of software development and internationalization. Read our locale vs. language comparison to gain a clearer idea of what they mean. What does language […]

/

Multilingual website: How to build one

A multilingual website goes beyond simply translating content; it’s about creating a seamless and localized experience for users, tailored to their specific language and cultural preferences. This article delves into the intricacies of creating a successful multilingual website, guiding you through the process from planning to implementation and maintenance. What is a multilingual website? A […]

/

What is continuous localization?

Traditionally, localization was a separate and often time-consuming phase in the development process. Content or software would be developed in a source language, and only after completion would it be translated and adapted for different target languages and regions. However, if you’re looking to improve your localization process and reach a wider global audience, you […]

/

6 Benefits of localization for unlocking global success

Localization turns your content from a foreign language into a conversation. By tailoring your message to local audiences, you spark a dialogue that resonates with their needs, interests, and cultural context. Your business will have plenty to gain too. Check out the main benefits of localization, so that you can learn more about its transformative […]

/

Mobile app localization: Importance and steps

Mobile app localization is the process of adapting an app’s interface, text, and functionality to suit different languages and cultures. The goal of localization is to provide users with a seamless and culturally relevant experience by translating the app’s content, adjusting visuals, and accommodating regional conventions. This involves more than just translating text; it encompasses […]