what is localization?

Localization (also referred to as "l10n") is the process of adapting a product or content to a specific locale or market. Translation is only one of several elements of the localization process. In addition to translation, the localization process may also include:

• Adapting graphics to target markets

• Modifying content to suit the tastes and consumption habits of other markets

• Adapting design and layout to properly display translated text

• Converting to local requirements (such as currencies and units of measure)

• Using proper local formats for dates, addresses, and phone numbers

• Addressing local regulations and legal requirements
• source:
• https://www.gala-global.org/industry/intro-language-industry/what-localization
• The aim of localization is to give a product the look and feel of having been created specifically for a target market, no matter their language, culture, or location.

• Language[edit]

  • Language localization, translating a product into different languages or adapting a product to a country or region
  • Internationalization and localization, the adaptation of computer software for non-native environments, especially other nations and cultures
  • Video game localization, preparation of video games for other locales
  • Dub localization, the adaptation of a movie or television series for another audience

  • In all these examples, the versatility of localization is shown. The main goal of any localization process should be adopting the local culture into the international business. Localization can consist of all these elements:

    • Translation of the text from original language to target language
    • Adapting design and layout to fit into translated text
    • Modifying content to fit the tastes, cultural aspects, and consumption habits of other markets
    • Adjusting to local regulations and legal requirements
    • Adapting colors and graphics to target market
    • Converting to local requirements (such as currencies and units of measure)
    • Using proper local formats, e.g. dates, addresses, punctuation, symbols, and phone numbers

       

    The aim of localization is to give a product the look and feel of having been created for the target market and to avoid or minimize local sensitivities.

  • 1. Extract Resource Files

    To start the localization process, you’ll need to extract your resource files for translation. Robust localization platforms support a variety of source file formats and you’ll be able to directly upload your resource files. In some cases, you’ll have to export your resource files into standard XLIFF (XML Localization Interchange File Format) files or other localization file formats to make them suitable for translation into multiple languages.

    If you are using a translation management system like Transifex, all you need to do is directly upload the resource files of your project into one of the supported resource file formats. The platform will automatically extract all your source strings and make them available for translation. If you are using GitHub, you can even integrate Transifex with your GitHub repository to automatically send new or untranslated strings directly into the translation management platform.

    2. Select Translation Method(s)

    When it comes to translating your content, it’s crucial to take the time to select the right translators for the job – ideally a native language speaker who has experience with translations. If you decide to use a localization platform, you’ll likely be provided with an integrated translation provider or you can invite translators of your choicefrom an outside translation agency. Whether through the platform or personal invite, your translators will have access to your source strings, can view them in the platform’s editor, and translate them appropriately and within the context of your content.

    3. Review Translations

    All translations must be reviewed for accuracy, language quality, terminology, and any other requirements of your software. The translators, based on feedback from you, a translation administrator, or project manager, must make any necessary modifications. More robust platforms like Transifex have built-in features for reviewing translations, as well as options to communicate with your translation team quickly and efficiently.

    4. Copy Translated Files into Code Structure

    After your translations are completed, you’ll need to copy the translated files into your code structure. Quality translation platforms will provide an option to pull the translated files that are ready for use into your application, as mentioned above. The next step is to import these translated files into your application and deploy your newly localized website or application with the completed translations.

    5. Release Your Translated Content

    At this point you may be asking, when is the localization process complete? Well, once you have made sure that your product is bug-free and sufficiently documented, your developers will announce a “string freeze” on your product. This means you can no longer change the code in a way that affects the source strings (except for specific improvements). The string  freeze will allow translators to work on a stable set of strings and ensure adequate time is available to translate and review. Then, you can obtain the translation for all your target languages, compile them into your product … and release!

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