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We are often asked, “What is the difference between localization and translation? Well, let’s start with the localization process.
Localization is the translation of a text that includes adaptations applicable to the target languages. Examples of adaptations include local currency, units of measure and even electrical outlets. If you have traveled internationally, you may have noticed that power plugs look different in other countries. A localization project involving electrical outlets would take this into consideration and use different pictures for the respective markets.
Also important are adaptations of phrases and sayings. For example, the common saying in English: “The early bird catches the worm,” would be: “Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund” in German. Clearly, this is not a straight translation but an adaptation. If we were to translate the German back into English, it would mean: “Morning hour has gold in its mouth.” If this saying is not localized, nobody would actually understand what the other is saying. Fortunately, most technical translations don’t contain phrases like this; still it is important that the text be adapted to the local market.
As compared to localizations, translations involve translating text word-by-word when adaptation to the local market is not needed, not wanted and/or if it is necessary to stick to the source text. If your business operates in a regulatory environment, than this is a necessity. For instance, in the Pharmaceutical industry it is common to translate text back to the source language to ensure the translation is done verbatim.
The localization process: 6 basic steps
Most of the translations managed today are actually localizations as most products require the adaptation to local markets. Here is a simplified 6-step localization process we follow at TrueLanguage.
1. Original Source File
When writing for a foreign audience and for translation, there are several things to keep in mind:
• Be consistent
• Use the same terms, phrases, sentences – this will provide matches from your Translation Memory (see below: Translation Memory) and reduce your localization volume and costs
• Be clear on what you would like to say, especially in manuals and training materials
• Reuse good quality content if possible
• Leave space when writing; most languages will expand in translation
• Keep an eye on formatting; any formatting issue in the source document will be an issue in all target languages. This can be significant and jeopardize your time-to-market.
2. File Preparation
Our Project Managers are linguists and experts when it comes to translations utilizing a computer-aided translation (CAT) tool. The Project Managers will check the source file for formatting issues and will analyze the document for possible matches and repetitions. The quote for the translation will be based on this analysis. Any issue with the text and file will be shared with the client to ensure the best, fastest and most cost-effective translation possible.
3. Translation
In order to deliver a high-quality translation, we build and assign a translation team to each client. A team typically consists of a native translator and subject-matter expert translating into his/her language in the respective country and another native translator who is located in the US. This has proven to be the best way to bridge a cultural gap.
All translations are done by people who are native speakers. This means that even if they speak multiple languages, they would only translate into their native language out of the foreign language. Translators are also subject-matter experts. They will have either working experience or a degree in the industry they are translating.
4. Desk Top Publishing (DTP)
Some formats of DTP such as InDesign, Framemaker or even PowerPoint require typesetting after the translation in order for the translated document to have the same look and feel as the original file. We offer DTP as part of the translation process including proofreading the after DTP.
5. Proofreading
During a normal translation process, the project is proofread twice. TrueLanguage completes one proofreading before delivering the translation to the client. The other proofreading is done by the client’s in-country reviewer. After each proofreading, the Translation Memory will be updated with the latest approved text version so it will be available for future translations. It’s also critical to carefully review the purely visual elements that accompany the translated text to make sure they are culturally appropriate for the target audience. In summary, careful and thoughtful proofreading is essential for a thorough and effective localization process.
6. Target Languages
The last step in the translation process is the delivery of the target languages. The project manager will reassure that the translation is complete and that every step has been executed according to our Quality Manual and ISO certification ISO 9001:2015.
What is a Translation Memory?
A Translation Memory (TM) is a database which stores a translation for the purpose of re-use. A translation would be stored in segments, sentences and/or phrases and whenever a segment appears in a follow-up translation they will occur as matches. This process enhances the consistency and quality of translations. It also will reduce the time to translate (time-to-market), and it will reduce the volume of the future translations, thereby reducing the cost. This is especially important in highly repetitive text such as product manuals, training material, software and its related documentation. Any terminology that has to be considered during translations is also stored in the TM and available for all translators.
Consider a Partnership with TrueLanguage
Are you looking for a partnership with a language service provider? If so, you may wish to consider TrueLanguage. We offer ISO-certified state-of-the-art business translation services that are on budget, on time, and to the exact specification. Every time. Or perhaps you’re just looking for a cost-free, no-obligation estimate for your next translation project. Either way, we’d love to hear from you!
