Localizing effectively to reach audiences around the world

Today we are all connected globally. Markets cross geographic lines. Potential customers who could not be reached before are now using mobile phones to connect and buy. Therefore, companies looking for new markets and more customers need translation, localization, and, possibly, internationalization to compete successfully. Here is an insight into the translation and localization industry and how it partners with the IT industry to ensure effective delivery of global content.

Text by Rebecca Petras

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Localizing effectively to reach audiences around the world

Definitions

Before embarking on a full-scale translation, localization or internationalization project, or hiring a firm to help you in those areas, it is important to understand the differences inherent in the definitions of each term.

Translation refers to written communication that is provided in a language other than the original ‘source’ language. In today’s world, companies have a lot of content that they want to provide globally; translation is critical in the transformation to global content. Content that is typically translated includes:

  • Product information and packaging
  • User interfaces and software
  • Websites and online content
  • Technical documentation
  • And myriad other applications where communication is critical

Localization is broader than translation. Localization is the practice of adapting your products and services to local markets, including taking into account ...