Localization

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Localization usually refers to the translation of electronic documents (websites, software) from one language into another. A translation is localized when it is adapted to meet the needs of the local market. For example, when localizing a website, the language, content and design might need to be changed to reflect local cultural sensitivities.

 

Professional translators are familiar with and “in touch” with their native culture and can offer advice and suggestions to businesses on how to make a translation more suitable or appropriate for a specific culture. Translators are also familiar with linguistic differences like spelling conventions and grammatical patterns. Even when targeting a market where English is widely spoken, a website might still need to be localized. For example, if a company wanted to create a Canadian version of its website, it would be more appropriate to incorporate the British spelling of words like “color” (spelled colour in Canada) and “neighbor” (spelled neighbour in Canada). In addition, the company’s input data form fields would have to be changed to include a field for a 6 digit “postal code” that accepted letters and numbers rather than an all numeric 5 digit zip code. At times, a company’s advertising material must also be translated and localized to appeal to the cultural tastes of a target market.

 

ITI localization services are designed to help companies avoid public relations gaffes or ineffective advertising campaigns. If you are working on a translation or advertising campaign that you suspect might need to be localized, or if your company wants to localize its website, contact us for more details about our professional localization services!