How to Achieve the Best Results in Software Localization

Software localization allows you to reach new markets and achieve global success. It is a process that involves adapting your software to the language, culture, and technical requirements of a target market. 

Software localization enables you to translate your user interface to suit a particular audience. This includes translating texts, data fields, and buttons to a different language for better impact. 

It also involves testing to ensure these elements provide an interactive and excellent user experience. The purpose of localization is to make your software accessible to people in their native language. Statistics show that 72.1%  of people surf online using their native language. 

Software localization aims to reach these people. Here are key areas you need to consider to achieve the best software localization results.

Hiring a Localization Team

A successful localization process requires a localization team with skills and cultural knowledge on autopilot. A localization team should be composed of professionals that can cater to the different aspects of the localization process. Here are some of the professionals that are relevant to the process:

• Localization manager 
• Localization engineers
• Translators
• Web design and development team
• QA personnel

Use a Localization Management Platform

The whole localization process is a lengthy one. That is why there is a need for a platform that will help manage and streamline software localization. These kinds of tools should help your team easily translate content by providing a wide variety of language options.

A localization management platform also promotes collaboration as it allows the team to give reviews and quick feedback as you localize the software. A smooth flow of communication and review process among members ensures that that process is carried out accurately and as scheduled.

Performing Text Localization

Text localization is a process that involves finding out how particular text and language affects your software design. It addresses deeper issues like text orientation and standards for different languages. 

For example, languages like Farsi, Hebrew, and Arabic move from left to right. This can have a much greater impact on your software’s text field, menus, and dialogue boxes. 

It is important to consider how your target language will affect user experience and make necessary changes. This might include changing the resource files for a better look and feel. It also helps to optimize the user experience.

Analyzing User Interface Graphic Design

Image by pixabay.com 

Analyze all symbols and pictures in your software and identify what might be offensive to a target audience. Symbols and images should be clear and not confusing, depending on the culture of your target audience. 

This is because similar images can have different meanings in different communities. If your software’s signs, symbols, and colors are offensive to users, they will avoid using your product. This will negatively impact your business.

Conducting Extensive Research

Extensive research allows you to understand a target audience better. Understanding how people in a particular community interact with similar products can make your software localization more impactful. 

People have different needs. Some communities prefer more information, options, and links in software, while others prefer a streamlined design. 

Research helps you know what will work for a particular target audience. Look at competitors’ products to get insights into peoples’ expectations and areas of improvement.

Consider Social Media

Social media has become part of people’s lives around the world. The number of social media users is expected to increase to 4.41 billion. Keeping up with social networking trends can help extend your brand reach. 

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter can connect you to your target audience. Find out the popular social network in a particular market and leverage it. 

For example, Qzone is a popular Chinese social network. If your target market is China, having a presence in this social network is crucial. This involves providing localized content such as instructions and links to download and install your apps. 

Understanding the Localization Process

Knowing what is involved in the localization process helps you to prepare well. It also allows you to know what to expect at the end of the process. A comprehensive localization involves

• Analyzing your resources, scope, and goals
• Review your content and symbols before starting the localization process
• Create a guideline
• Localize and edit your content

Developing a Strategy

Image by pixabay.com 

Develop a strategy that will make you successful in your target market. For example, look at your competitors’ work and identify gaps. 

Improve on these areas and add value to users. Consider adding ideas and services that resonate with the audience. This gives you a competitive advantage.

Test different concepts and make sure you provide locally and culturally appropriate content. This gives your audience a better experience. It gives you the best results and keeps you ahead of your competitors.  

Understanding Local Laws

When introducing your product to new regions, consider the differences in every market. This involves complying with the laws specific to a particular place. 

Consider laws that allow you to register your business, spend money, hire employees and advertise your product. Understand the laws surrounding advertising, including using video, images, and text to pass information. These laws may vary from one country to the next.

Content that is acceptable in one region may be unlawful in another region. Understanding and following local laws will make you attractive to users and help you scale your business.

Key Takeaway

Localization enables you to be attractive to new software users. It is a cost-effective way of reaching new markets and building your customer base. 

This is possible when you conduct in-depth research of your target market. It helps you understand the beliefs and culture you need to include in the localization process. 

This makes your product acceptable and effective to the local community. The right software and team will help you achieve the best software localization results.