As global business enterprises become more prevalent, understanding their customers around the world becomes more important than ever. This is especially important if you want to remain competitive in the international market, but also if you are operating in a language that’s not your native one. Translation services can sometimes sell us short, because translations change the meaning of what we’re trying to communicate. In order for your site content to resonate with readers who speak another language, it needs to be localized properly—more accurately translated and culturally adapted according to their preferences.
Contents of this blog include:
General introduction to language localization and translation
Different Types of Language Localization Services
Examples of languages being localized
General Introduction to Language Localization and Translation
Language localization services provide a way for digital products to be adapted for different regions and languages. Translation services allow for text to be translated from one language to another. These two types of services are often used together, as translation then updates the content with regional and cultural information.
There are many different types of language localization services, including automatic language detection and recognition, optical character recognition (OCR), voice recognition and transcription, machine translation (MT), and lexical resource management (LRM). Many of these services use sophisticated algorithms to find regional or cultural information within a text and translate it accordingly.
However, while both translation and localization services can be used to create international versions of products, they have several key differences. Translation often involves the creation of new texts from the source language into another language, while localization typically involves adapting existing content for a specific region or culture. Translation is more likely to change the style or format of original texts, while localization is more likely to change the meaning or context.
Different Types of Language Localization Services
There are three main types of language localization services: translation, transcription, and interpreting. Translation services render the original text into another language, while transcribing services produce a copy of the source text with correct grammar and punctuation. Interpreting services provide live interpretation or translation for events or meetings.
Localization is important for a variety of reasons. For businesses, it enhances global exposure and helps attract new customers. For individuals, it allows them to access information in their own language without having to learn another one. Additionally, various localization features can make your site or app more user-friendly.
When choosing a localization service, consider your needs and goals. Some companies offer bundled services that provide multiple services (such as translation, transcription, and interpretation). Other options offer more specialized solutions (such as multilingual voiceover, content integration and testing). It’s important to choose the right option for your project so that you receive the best possible results.
Examples of languages being localized
Localization services ensure that a product or service is suitable for a specific local market. This can involve anything from adapting the content to local customs and traditions, to changing the price of a product to match local currency. Localization is a vital part of any business that wants to succeed in a global market, and there are many examples of businesses that have utilized localization to great effect. One such example is Coca-Cola, who localized their products for the Chinese market by redesigning their logo to incorporate lucky symbols. As a result, Coca-Cola became one of the most popular soft drinks in China. Another example is IKEA, who localized their product names to make them more pronounceable for Chinese consumers. This helped IKEA to build trust with local customers and become one of the leading furniture retailers in China. Localization is an essential tool for any business that wants to tap into new markets and reach new customers. By understanding local customs and traditions, businesses can create products and services that are truly tailored to local needs.
Andovar, your go-to localization partner
Andovar is your go-to localization partner when it comes to getting your content and materials translated into different languages. We offer a full range of localization services, from simple document translation to more complex multilingual website development. No matter what your needs are, we can help you reach your target audience in their native language. We have over 10,000 experienced translators who are experts in a variety of industries, so you can be confident that your content will be accurately and culturally appropriate. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you grow your world!
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