Localising software and IT products for deployment in global markets
Translating software releases for the global market is a unique challenge, bringing together the requirement for an understanding of complex development processes and linguistic expertise. Popular apps, IT and software products are continually being released into new global markets and there is an ever-increasing demand for intuitive translation and localisation services to provide end users with a seamless UX experience.
The goal of all global technology giants is to give their users the same look, the same feel and the same experience, no matter where in the world they are and across a range of platforms; and all this content needs accurate, timely IT and software translation services to take care of published content and then keep it updated as the needs of the client change and they adapt or increase and diversify their offerings.
What should we expect when having software localised? There are usually at least three stages to the software localisation process. The first covers the actual design of the product, looking at aspects that might affect usability, such as the length of words in buttons. When preparing a software product for release internationally, the team must consider elements such as:
These are just a very few examples of the pitfalls that can befall a software localisation project in its early stages, which is why it’s vital to pick an experienced localisation partner to help your company get these aspects right and make a success of your project. Our expert team can make the process more straightforward by separating your software text elements into a file for translation so that your source code will not be affected by the localisation process.
Other elements will then also be checked to see if they fit with the cultural norms and expectations of the target market, such as imagery. For example, a picture of a child tipping a bowl of food upside down on its head might be considered amusing in the West but poor taste in the East. Content will also be localised, and last of all, UX/UI testing takes place to ensure that the product is fit for release into all its target markets.
Considering that it is a fairly complex process, you might be wondering why you would want your software localised. There is a very simple answer to this question, however – brand loyalty. We feel the best affinity with and are most loyal to those brands that we find it easiest to interact with – so if you want your new global customers to turn into loyal followers of your brand, you need to look at making it as easy as possible to interact with. And the best basis for this is great localisation, making the process of interaction as seamless as possible. Your customers should enjoy interacting with your brand at every touchpoint, and we are here to partner you to achieving this goal and sealing their loyalty to your company.
Want to find out more? Give us a call today to discuss software localisation.