The necessity to localize software can occur at any time but typically, it is associated with the expansion of businesses to global markets. It is crucial to find the right experts to cope with the rather complex task of software localization in order to increase profit and succeed in future activities. Follow below if you want to learn what software localization is all about and how to identify a trustworthy software localization provider.
Software localization helps to make the platforms culturally appropriate and correct in the linguistic sense. Software localization involves not just changing and adaptation of text content but visuals as well.
You need to be aware of the fact that it is real to localize any type of software: it can be firmware, mobile platforms, online assistance, and so on. However, the team dealing with such a task has to be really experienced and perform their work in the most effective way.
Key Steps of Software Localization
Any fine company promoting software localization services will divide this tricky process into clear steps. This will help to achieve the best results in localization.
The first step is presented by globalization. This is mostly about careful planning and careful consideration of what changes have to take place in connection with a specific project. The team needs to consider time formats, currencies, numbers, text length, and much more than this.
The next step to mention is the actual localization. Good teams always have a whole set of tools ready that will help to promote perfect software localization. It is essential to keep in mind what is going to be adapted within this process:
- Translation of text content and images;
- Modification of UI to suit the demands of the target audiences;
- UX changes associated with the various cultural expectations, etc.
As long as the software localization is over, it is relevant to test what the team was able to come up with. This procedure can’t be finished within several hours. Normally, the team members require far more time and effort. It is vital to deal with the legal check, cultural sensitivity audit, and quality assurance. You are always welcome to demand details in connection with any of the steps of software localization services you are about to receive. A good team will never refuse to provide you with sufficient info.
Benefits of Software Localization
The opportunity to increase profit (thanks to the business expansion globally) has already been touched upon above. But this is just a general point to keep in mind. The rest of the crucial aspects are indicated below:
- Improving user experience. This is why it is possible: clients are going to face intuitive software well adapted to their culture. They will get to deal with the user-friendly service and stick to a certain product as a result;
- Respect for a certain culture. When the software is localized, the clients feel certain care of themselves and wish to deal with the manufacturer/company, etc.;
- Opportunity to compete with other businesses. The clients will certainly value those who have localized their products in connection with a specific culture;
- Legal aspect. The software localization also has to deal with checking regulatory issues and points that refer to a certain country;
- Brand recognition and consistency. This is partly linked to the care of the customers;
- Delivering accurate info to the clients. It is very pleasant when the representatives of the company and potential clients understand each other to the greatest extent. This is also possible thanks to software localization.
Naturally, there are also some other positive effects of software localization. They will be visible to the business as soon as the process is finished.
A Reliable Software Localization Provider: Features to Keep in Mind
Software localization requires enough previous experience, and the company certainly has to be characterized by plenty of positive reviews. You can look for these reviews in various spots but it is essential to check them in advance. However, it is not only the aspect of former clients’ opinions that has to be considered. You need to look at some other factors as well.
The Site of the Provider
It should give you full info on the service you are about to receive. Ideally, you must be able to find an appropriate section and complete description of the assistance you will demand. There may be most frequent questions from former clients and answers to them. The info can be given in any form but it should be correct and cover all aspects of the service you intend to order.
The Opportunity to Request a Quote
When the clients are presented with such an option, it means that the company wants to meet their demands and help them determine the budget from the very start. This is very convenient.
It is awesome when you are able to request a quote without leaving your house: it may be enough to follow the necessary section on the platform of the service provider. You might have to indicate your name, email, correct address, and phone number when making such a request. Plus, it is very important to describe what you need in detail.
Clear Timing of the Service You Want to Get
Once you have a consultation on software localization services, you want to be sure when the process will be finished. A good company will always tell you what to expect from collaboration in detail. Normally, the assistance is going to consist of a few steps, and you need to be aware of them.
As for the real necessity to order software localization services, there are quite a few areas of businesses that may require this process. E-commerce and the companies suggesting online courses are probably the best examples here.
All in all, software localization services are crucial for those who want to expand to the international markets. However, it is very important to find the right service provider to achieve all of the goals.
