Software localization is the methodology of adapting one’s software for users who speak other languages or live in other countries. It goes beyond basic translation to tune into the user interfaces on a cultural level. It’s not just what one is saying but how they are saying it.
Software localization can be a complex structure but the below-given pointers are what standard software localization services abide by
- Utilization of separate resource files
The best software localization services know well enough that the files with hard-coded localizable elements are a nightmare to handle, so it is a best practice for an organization to create a separate file for each language that they need their software to be available and offer to their clients accordingly.
- Managing one’s code to handle varied languages
After the segregation of files, one should start adding placeholders in their code. A placeholder permits the insertion of dynamic content, such as words, characters, or strings of characters. The particular placeholder used varies on the basis of the coding language and coding one is using, but it will indicate their application that it should show the correct translation for the chosen language rather than a particular word. The best software localization services always notice that during the usage of placeholders, they are avoiding concatenated strings because they know that word order and syntax differ by language and that can make parsing difficult. They also ensure that they are providing context and comments wherever they can so that the respective translators in their team can understand where in the UI a given string appears and how this affects the final meaning.
- Provision for spaces according to the language length
Different language requires different amounts of space on a page. So, one should keep in mind that texts will shrink or grow at any given point in their translation. For instance, translating English to German can lead to a text expansion of up to 35%. Alternatively, English to Swedish can truncate text by up to 35%. If one is translated into Asian languages like Japanese, Chinese, or Korean, one will notice a vertical expansion from English. A standard translation and localization software service always will go for translating the text at first and then proceed to optimize the UI in all languages. This helps them gauge how designs mold based on the target language, which ultimately helps them avoid design breaks and localization errors.
- Check whether symbols or images make sense
Subsequently in the design phase, one will want to ensure that the images they are choosing to incorporate are appropriate and inclusive for each of their target market segment. The best software localization services double-check all the illustrations and images not only for potential offensive cases in other markets but also for confusing or meaningless symbols.
- Gauge and accommodating design preferences
Understanding design preferences permits product teams to curate their software to particular regional and cultural preferences. It is well known, that varied markets have varying preferences for design styles and aesthetics. For instance, some markets may go for minimalistic designs that focus on clean lines and white spaces, whereas others may prefer more intricate designs that incorporate more detailed visuals and information.
- Strategize with locale in mind
Thinking about language is a perfect first step, but one needs to keep in mind that once they expand their boundaries, locale becomes crucial. Some languages may be identical, but that doesn’t mean the culture would be the same. Even in English, phrases, words, and spellings may be different if one is in the U.S.A., Canada, Australia, or the UK.
- Structure a style guide
A style guide and glossary are key elements of the language assets that one needs to build to ensure their messaging and brand stay compatible across every market. Ultimately, the compatibility of one’s brand across varied markets is critical to building trust with their customers. Designing a style guide and maintaining a glossary will permit one’s linguists to work fast simultaneously maintaining quality. A standard software localization service ensures to include the following in their style guide-
- Branding, like product terminologies
- Tone, especially voice instructions and formality
- Audience information, such as value propositions or persona research
- Grammar, wherever applicable
Along with these pointers, there are some other corners like providing context for localizable strings and focusing on leveraging translation memory which needs to be looked upon by an organization to save time and money, Hence, it is always best to choose the right software localization service.