The demand for software localization has been only rising for the past few decades. The process of localization deals with the adaptation of software linguistically and culturally. The localization is particularly important because the cultural factors need clear consideration. Moreover, the language and its dialects are also important to be taken care of while localizing software. Seeking professional software localization services can make your software a brand that is popular and credible across the world. Localization can be an interesting phenomenon if you try to understand and absorb it thoroughly. However, it can be intimidating for the people who opt to practice it out of liability.
Here are a few software localization facts that can help you understand the process and clear the air about any doubts, if any.
Localization is different from translation
First of all, it is important for you to understand that localization and translation are two different practices. Translation is a prerequisite for effective localization. Where translation deals with the finding of the equivalent or alternate words from one language to another, localization specifically deals with the modification of factors such as culture, beliefs, consumer behavior, habits, and a lot more. Only professionals can handle the localization of software. It includes dealing with the interface, user content, and programming language. The companies opt for software localization to increase their reach and make more profit in foreign markets.
Culture is the main essence of software localization
Culture holds great importance in software localization. It is important to consider the cultural, technical, and linguistic assessment for making the software resonate with the needs of the new audiences. Cultural sensitivity and awareness are fundamental to creating fully localized content that compels audiences to buy. Understanding diverse cultures helps to connect with potential buyers more naturally. Many companies overlook this factor whereas it won’t be wrong to claim that most of the localization part is only carried out for the cultural modifications and adaptations. This is why hiring native translators for localization and translation services is advised.
Unicode revolution
Software localization is a technical process. It involves a lot of challenges and technicalities. There is a programming language involved. Not many people are aware of this, but the Unicode revolution has made software localization quite convenient. It’s a universal character encoding standard, and it has improved localization. The Unicode format further has also made a lot of programming characters legible from different languages and scripts, making the content technically easier to localize across the globe.
Right-to-Left languages
Software localization can be challenging depending on the selection of languages. Few languages are compact and precise, and some languages require more space to fit in. Likewise, it has been mentioned time and again that the languages that are written right to left pose many challenges in the process of software localization. So, if you intend to localize your software in a language such as Arabic, Hebrew, or Persian, make sure that you hire a professional software localization agency. An agency that has a competent team to deal with these languages and navigate through the challenges that come with them. These languages require special attention. The mirroring of the layouts and the adjustment of the text direction also need to be clear without any complexity.
Local regulations
The regulations regarding software distribution can differ with the countries. Different countries have defined their own set of rules and regulations. And these are mandatory to follow for a smooth expansion in a new land. The data protection laws and accessibility standards are also according to the regions. Localization often involves compliance with local regulations. The companies need to understand that overlooking local regulations can make them suffer and even be banned in a new region. However, if they accept it and practice accordingly, they can have a bright future over there. So this information about localization can surely make the process smooth.
Emoji evolution
Emojis made their way to our screens back in 1999. With the passage of time, and as the trend of localization and globalization kept on increasing, the emojis also started localizing. The use and interpretation of the emojis are different for the different regions and countries. Like, who would have thought that an emoji of OK or a waving hand can reflect anything vulgar? A country like Brazil doesn’t find this emoji OK, and people there can get infuriated. Similarly, if you are localizing your software for Afghanistan, make sure you are careful while using thumbs up, as it can cause serious trouble for you.
Emojis have become an important part of our digital products like softwares, games and apps. This is what makes it mandatory to consider the careful use of emojis for software and game localization services. Though, these have evolved over time, but not every country is welcoming towards different emojis. So, be sure that you are aware of the perceived interpretation in your targeted county before you opt for translation and start the localization journey.
Conclusion
Software localization deals with the cultural, linguistic, and visual changes of software according to the preferences of the target audience. While software localization is an extensive process, make sure that you are aware of the important facts. Getting this information in advance can help with better software localization.