The Ultimate Definition of Software Localization
The convergence of globalization and the expansion of electronic communications has opened new fields in the world of web and software localization and mastering to be more suitable for different market requirements.
In this article, we will shed light on three main points: The definition of software localization, what it includes, and how important it is to business.
Software Localization: Definition
Software localization is the process of adapting software and applications to be matched with the linguistic and cultural conventions of all countries, in addition to adapting to its legal and technical requirements.
It differs from the translation process and even goes beyond the translation of the plain text, as it requires a more holistic view of the product, and this localization process includes all components of the software that are visible to the user.
What does the localization of software content include?
Although written content may be one of the primary elements that come to mind, the process of localization does not only involve written content but also conveys and translates relevant cultural values or customs specific to each country.
Some practical software content localization steps are below:
1- Flexibility in context size:
It may require more words on your screen if you are translating certain content. Therefore, the text may shrink or stretch. In this sense, it is necessary to build programs flexibly.
2- Language support:
It is important to support the native language of each country according to your target audience
3- Use a consistent narrative:
It can be helpful to stick to a specific brand and trade terminology that may make your visitors familiar with your services and brand. Using these types of special or narration terms in your software is also important for translation purposes.
4- Cultural media/images:
It is essential to have as many localized elements available on your software as possible. Since the main goal is to harmonize the application media, you mustn’t have any visual images, photos, or videos that could offend anyone from that culture.
5- Provide culturally appropriate time and scale formats:
Measurement types, currencies, and date formats vary from culture to culture. Therefore, the software should allow users to control their home page or page according to their cultural requirements if desired.
Why Software Localization Is Important for Businesses
Software localization is a logical and turning point step in globalization.
With Localized software, direct contact with the global markets became easier which gives us the ability to increase our user base and income.
Agile software design allows us to write codes with internationalization in mind to quickly adapt them to changes in new markets. Software localization makes it easy to translate and swap items and then adjust the program’s layout by alphabet, word, and text length for the target language so that the final software version looks as good as the original.
When targeting a new audience, the most important aspect of software localization is taking care of your user interface. The more idiomatically translated all the details into the languages of your target users, the easier it will be for them to navigate and use or operate your software, thus broadening the target audience base.
Ultimately, your company will benefit from the global presence and international fame if you successfully present your local products in multiple global markets. This will not only get you more clients, but also transform your business into an empowered business, become a trustworthy company, and expand all over the world.
Conclusion
Software localization works in tandem with software development to translate its components, content, and user interface into multiple languages. Program localization is not limited to translating texts, symbols, and images, but also includes assessing the cultural norms of the target audience that must be included.
This way you allow your software to reach global markets quickly, reach more different user groups and improve the user experience according to their cultural expectations.
TransalationPartner can help you increase your sales and expand your business by localizing your software into multiple languages. You will work with native speakers who can provide accurate local copies of your product.
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