Definition: The translation and localization process for businesses aligns language, culture, and technology—turning source content into market-ready experiences through discovery/scoping, translation, editing, DTP/engineering, linguistic & functional QA, and in-market validation.

What’s the Translation vs. Localization vs. Transcreation Difference?

Translation converts text from one language to another. Localization adapts content to cultural, linguistic, and regulatory norms (currency, images, idioms, formats) so it feels native. Transcreation creatively adapts high-impact messaging (e.g., slogans) to evoke the same intent in another language.

Founder Ralph Strozza presents at a TedX event at Northern Illinois University – do you translate, localize or transcreate this marketing campaign ad?

Do You Need Translation, Localization, or Both?

Example: Localizing an eLearning course can involve voiceover, captions, interactive modules, and downloadable workbooks—translated components are reassembled and QA’d into a single seamless experience.

Industries That Rely on Professional Translation & Localization

• Healthcare/Life Sciences: Regulatory content, patient comms, research.

• Legal: Contracts, patents, court filings.

• Manufacturing: Technical manuals, safety instructions, compliance.

• Technology/Software: UI strings, help centers, apps.

• eLearning: Multilingual training programs.

• Retail/eCommerce: Product pages, checkout flows, service scripts.

Why Cultural Adaptation Protects Your Brand

Language is inseparable from culture. Adapting idioms, imagery, color, and symbols prevents misinterpretation and builds trust. Validate with in-market reviewers; follow i18n best practices for formats and directionality (e.g., W3C i18n).

Common Process Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

• Relying on raw machine translation without human review.
• Skipping localization for customer-facing content (dates, currency, visuals).
• Ignoring text expansion and RTL layout needs in UI/UX (e.g., German length, Arabic/Hebrew direction). See NN/g guidance on international usability.
• Inconsistent terminology; no glossary or style guide.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Timelines depend on length, complexity, language pairs, and QA. A 1,000-word document may take 1–2 business days; multi-language multimedia projects can take weeks. Clear instructions, references, and preferred terminology accelerate delivery.

How Providers Ensure Quality and Accuracy

• Subject-matter linguists translate into their native language.
• Editing/proofreading by a second linguist for accuracy & consistency.
• Translation Memory (TM) reuses approved phrasing across assets.
• Client feedback loop aligns tone and brand preferences.
• Final QC (linguistic + functional checks) before delivery.

What Certifications Should You Look For?

Standards help ensure repeatable quality: ISO 17100 (translation services) and ISO 9001 (quality management). In regulated sectors, additional requirements (e.g., HIPAA context for healthcare) may apply.

What’s the Cost of Translation and How Is It Calculated?

Pricing reflects wordcount, language pairs, complexity, turnaround, DTP/engineering, and testing. Web/app and eLearning projects often require custom scoping. TM and consistent governance reduce cost over time by reusing approved content.

However, AI translation is offering new solutions for companies. Talk to Interpro to explore the AI solutions available to you. 

How Do You Keep Brand Voice Consistent?

Create a multilingual style guide and glossary with do-not-translate terms, approved phrasing, and tone guidance. Ask for a pilot/sample to confirm fit before full rollout. Interpro assigns dedicated linguists who learn your voice over time.

Professional Translation and Localization Matters

High-quality translation and localization expand reach, protect compliance, and improve customer experience. With the right partner and process, your content lands accurately and authentically in every market.

Talk to Interpro about your translation & localization plan.

8 Common Localization Issues

When localizing a translation, there are a number of potential issues that can arise. Interpro has translated over 350 million words for clients, and here are the top 10 common localization issues.

1. Cultural misunderstandings

This is perhaps the most common issue that can occur when localizing a translation. For example, a company that is localizing its website into Spanish might not realize that the word “vaca” means “cow” in Spanish, but it also has a slang meaning that is offensive to women.

2. Grammatical errors

Even if a translator is fluent in the target language, they may not be familiar with the local grammar rules. This can lead to grammatical errors in the localized text.

3. Phrasal idioms

Phrasal idioms are phrases that have a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. For example, the English phrase “break a leg” means “good luck.” If this phrase is translated literally into another language, it will likely not make sense to the target audience.

4. Cultural references 

Cultural references are references to people, places, or events that are specific to a particular culture. If a localized translation contains cultural references that are not familiar to the target audience, it will likely be ignored, create confusion or even offend.

5. Jargon 

Jargon is specialized language that is used by a particular group of people. If a localized translation contains jargon that is not familiar to the target audience, it will likely be confusing or even incomprehensible.

Spelling errors. Even if a translator is careful, they may still make spelling errors in the localized text. This can be especially problematic if the spelling of words is different in the target language.

6. Font issues 

The font used in a localized translation can also be a problem. If the font is not available or designed for a specific language, it may be replaced with a different font that is available or more readable in the target language.

7. Image issues 

Images can also be a problem when localizing a translation. If an image contains text, the text may not be translated correctly. Additionally, the image itself may not be appropriate or relevant for the target audience.

8. Testing issues 

It is important to test the localized translation thoroughly before it is released. This will help to ensure that there are no errors in the text and that the translation is culturally appropriate.

Cost issues. Localization can be a costly process. This is especially true if the translation needs to be done by a professional translator.

Publicly Documented Examples of Localization Errors 

Here are some examples of companies that have had public localization errors:

1. Heineken 

In 2007, Heineken launched a marketing campaign in China that featured the slogan “Heineken refreshes the parts other beers cannot reach.” However, the Chinese translation of the slogan was interpreted as “Heineken opens your legs.” This caused a great deal of controversy and embarrassment for Heineken.

2. Pepsi 

In 1995, Pepsi launched a marketing campaign in China that featured the slogan “Come alive with the Pepsi generation.” However, the Chinese translation of the slogan was “Pepsi brings your ancestors back from the dead.” Many Chinese consumers were deeply confused and upset by this.

3. Google

In 2009, Google launched a new feature for its Translate app that allowed users to translate text by speaking into the app. However, the feature was not well-tested and it caused a great deal of confusion and laughter when it was used to translate English into Spanish. For example, the English phrase “I’m feeling good” was translated into Spanish as “Estoy sintiendo bueno,” which literally means “I’m feeling good,” but it sounds like “I’m feeling a good.”

4. IKEA

In 2004, IKEA launched a children’s desk called “Fartfull.” However, even if in Swedish the word means “full speed”, in English this brought for sure a lot of giggling.

5. HSBC Bank

The company had to invest millions of dollars in a global rebranding after their slogan “Assume nothing” was translated as “Do nothing” in several non-English speaking markets.

6. Microsoft

The German debut of XBOX featured mistranslated store phrases that turned “Save (your progress)” into “Save (your money)” was not quite what players had in mind.

These are just a few examples of the many localization errors that have occurred over the years. By being aware of these potential problems, companies can help to ensure that their localized translations are accurate, culturally appropriate, and free of errors.

Why Localization Matters More Than Ever

Localization is no longer just an optional business strategy. It’s a necessity for reaching diverse audiences. Whether you are:

• Launching a global marketing campaign that requires cultural adaptation
• Modifying software to function correctly in multiple regions with technical adaptation
• Developing digital content that needs full integration with a platform localization strategy

Interpro Translation Solutions ensures that your content is accurate, engaging, and fully functional in any language.

Talk to Interpro about your translation & localization plan.

FAQs: Translation and Localization Process for Businesses

How do I decide between translation, localization, and transcreation?

Match approach to risk and intent: translation for accuracy, localization for cultural/UX fit, transcreation for creative impact.

What speeds up timelines without hurting quality?

Finalize source content, provide references and preferred terminology, and plan review windows.

Can machine translation help reduce cost?

It can in low-risk contexts when paired with human post-editing and your approval. Interpro never uses AI/MT without consent.

How do we maintain consistency across languages?

Use a glossary, style guide, and Translation Memory; keep a dedicated linguist team on your account.

What should I budget for beyond translation?

Allow for editing, QA, DTP/engineering, and in-market testing—especially for software/eLearning.

Explore Services

Consulting • Translation • eLearning • Video & Multimedia • Document

References

W3C Internationalization
Nielsen Norman Group
Snopes
The GuardianMental Floss

The post The Ultimate Guide to the Translation and Localization Process for Businesses appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Definition: Localization adapts language, culture, and functionality so your product or content feels native in every market, not merely translated.

Three Types of Localization: Cultural, Technical, and Platform

Localization is more than word-for-word translation. It adapts content to the communication needs of each audience. Based on Interpro’s hands-on experience since 1995, most clients blend three types of localization:

• Cultural Localization: Tone, imagery, idioms, and messaging align with local customs and expectations.

• Technical Localization: Formats, inputs, databases, and workflows match regional conventions and constraints.

• Platform Localization: Full-scale localization for web/apps, video, and eLearning (language + UX + interactivity).

1) Cultural Localization: Aligning with Local Norms and Expectations

Cultural localization ensures content feels native to each audience by adapting language, tone, imagery, and messaging. It’s sometimes called linguistic localization or cultural adaptation.

Key Aspects of Cultural Localization

• Adjusting tone and formality
• Replacing idioms, slang, and metaphors that don’t resonate
• Modifying visuals and colors to avoid cultural missteps
• Aligning messaging with regional values

Example: McDonald’s Global Menus

American McDonald’s Menu vs Japanese McDonald’s Menu

Global menus adapt to local tastes (e.g., vegetarian items in India, shrimp burgers in Japan, flatbread in the Middle East).

How Interpro Helps with Cultural Localization

We work with you to understand your goals and connect you with in-country translation and creative teams that can help make your marketing campaigns, eLearning courses, and product information resonate with your audience, improving engagement and trust.

2) Technical Localization: Functional Fit for Every Region

Technical localization aligns systems and content with regional conventions so products work as expected.

Key Aspects of Technical Localization

• Formatting numbers, dates, and currencies (see CLDR)
• Converting units of measurement
• Adapting forms, validation, addresses/phone formats
• Engineering for RTL, encoding, and locale data (see W3C i18n)

Example: Amazon’s Regional Payment Systems

Amazon localizes its checkout experience: U.S. customers use credit cards and PayPal, Indian users rely on Cash on Delivery, and Chinese users use Alipay or WeChat Pay.

Example: Online Form Field Differences

A form built for U.S. ZIP Codes must be updated to accept Canadian Postal Codes. Phone numbers, address formats, and even character count may differ.

How Interpro Helps with Technical Localization

Interpro can manage technical localization for you during the translation process. We ensure your systems and digital tools work seamlessly in each market so that users can input, interact, and engage without friction.

3) Platform Localization: Seamless Digital Experiences Across Languages

Platform localization integrates language, design, and interactivity for multimedia, eLearning, web, and apps.

Key Aspects of Platform Localization

• Translating and embedding VO, captions, and multimedia
• Adapting UI/UX and testing layouts, navigation, and formatting
• Integrating language files with LMS or web systems
• Supporting RTL and language expansion in design

Example: Netflix’s Global Strategy

Netflix localizes everything, from dubbing by native voice actors to translating UI elements and adjusting content libraries by region. Change the language on your Netflix account to check it out.

Example: Multilingual eLearning

Platform localization ensures voiceovers, quizzes, PDFs, and interactivity are fully functional across languages like Spanish or Arabic.

How Interpro Helps with Platform Localization

Interpro manages platform localization for you as part of our translation services. We specialize in turnkey solutions for eLearning, video and multimedia, managing the entire localization process so your audience receives a seamless experience.

Ready to localize with confidence?

Work with Interpro’s consultative team to scope the right blend of cultural, technical, and platform localization for your goals. We’ll ensure your content resonates, works technically, and delivers seamless digital experiences.

Talk to Interpro about your translation and localization plan.

FAQs: Three Types of Localization

What are the three types of localization?

Cultural, technical, and platform. Cultural ensures resonance; technical ensures formats and systems work; platform ensures full digital experiences feel native.

Why is cultural localization important?

It adapts tone, visuals, and messaging to local norms, reducing risk and improving engagement.

What’s the difference between technical and platform localization?

Technical focuses on functionality (formats, inputs, engineering). Platform spans end-to-end digital experiences across web, apps, video, and eLearning.

How can a business start?

Assess what you’re launching and where; prioritize by risk and impact; engage a provider that covers culture, engineering, and platform QA.

Explore Services

Consulting • Translation • eLearning • Video & Multimedia • Document

Resources

W3C i18n
Unicode CLDR
MDN: Localization

The post The Three Types of Localization (Cultural, Technical, Platform) appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Interpro’s Localization & Technology Expertise Since 1995

At Interpro, we’ve always specialized in creating tailored language services that integrate directly into your workflow to streamline your translation process. From learning management systems, to marketing platforms and digital tools, our expertise spans across all major industries to support your growth through localization. 

Below, we answer key questions decision-makers ask when evaluating translation providers and demonstrate how Interpro’s specialized services align with your needs.

Do You Offer eLearning Localization for Platforms Like Rise 360 and WordPress?

Yes. eLearning is a core specialization at Interpro. Our eLearning localization services ensure that digital courses, compliance training, and instructional programs are culturally adapted and linguistically accurate.

Why Choose Interpro? We:

• Translate interactive course modules for multilingual learners
• Adapt assessments, quizzes, and certifications for accessibility
• Integrate translations into LMS platforms
• Localize training videos with voiceover, captions, and subtitling

For SEIU 775 Benefits Group, we translate and localize online caregiver training modules within Rise 360 and WordPress, ensuring accessibility for Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and Vietnamese-speaking audiences.

Can You Integrate with Our Learning Management System (LMS)?

Absolutely. We work seamlessly with any LMS platform, allowing organizations to deliver consistent, high-quality multilingual training to employees, members, and clients.

Supported LMS Platforms:

• Cornerstone, Docebo, Artisan, Canvas, Moodle, and Blackboard, and more
• SCORM, xAPI, and AICC file formatting support
• Embedded subtitles, voiceover recordings, and on-screen text localization

We have experience localizing many educational courses and entire compliance training libraries across multiple LMS platforms, ensuring a seamless translation workflow and full functionality of final translated courses.

Translated educational course and PowerPoint by the Interpro team.

Do You Provide Video Translation Services (Subtitles, Voice-Over, Captions)?

Yes. Multimedia translation is essential for global training, marketing, and corporate communications. We provide turnkey video localization services that include:

• Professional and AI-generated voiceovers in multiple languages
• On-screen text translation and adaptation
• Closed captioning and subtitles for accessibility
• Dubbing and video lip-syncing for international audiences

For SEIU 775, we provide multilingual voiceovers and closed captions for their training videos, ensuring that caregivers canengage with instructional content in their preferred language.

Can You Translate Documents That Require Desktop Publishing (DTP)?

Yes. Multilingual document formatting is essential for maintaining the design and structure of translated materials. Our DTP specialists work with:

• Adobe InDesign, Captivate, and Illustrator
• Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDFs
• Marketing materials, brochures, and technical documentation

For Armstrong International, we translate technical product manuals while ensuring that charts, tables, and layouts remain consistent across multiple languages.

Do You Provide Website Translation and Localization?

Yes. We provide full-scale website localization, ensuring that your online presence is culturally adapted for international markets. Our website translation services include:

• SEO-friendly content localization
• Translation of HTML, PHP, JSON, and XML files
• CMS integration with WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla

Also for Armstrong International, we translated and maintain their WordPress website in 10 languages, optimizing search rankings and user engagement across diverse markets.

Armstrong International partnered with Interpro to translate their global website, and continues to work with the team on all their translation needs.

How Do You Handle Multimedia Content Like Animations and Graphics?

Our multimedia localization services cover everything from interactive graphics to complex animation overlays. This ensures that your visual content is as effective in a new language as it was in the original version.

Why Choose Interpro?

• Translation of infographics, charts, and interactive media 
• Subtitling and dubbing for motion graphics and animations
• Adaptation of text for graphics-heavy materials such as product manuals

For a healthcare eLearning client, we localized animated training modules, ensuring that on-screen text, voiceovers, and timing were fully synchronized.

Can You Work with Multilingual Surveys on Platforms Like Qualtrics?

Yes. We support multilingual survey translation to help organizations collect accurate, culturally-relevant responses.

Survey Platforms We Work With:

• Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, Typeform
• Complex survey translations including question logic adjustments
• Multilingual data analysis and response validation

For a government-funded language access initiative, we translated pre- and post-training surveys into eight languages, ensuring accurate data collection from diverse respondents.

Do You Offer Simultaneous and Consecutive Interpreting Services?

Yes. Interpro provides real-time language support for organizations that require live interpretation services.

Our Interpreting Services Include:

• Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) for webinars and virtual events
• Onsite event interpreting for conferences, corporate meetings, and training sessions
• Phone-based interpreting for multilingual business communications

For Interpro client Carewell, we provide live interpreting services for web meetings and instructor-led training, ensuring full participation from non-English-speaking attendees.

Can You Support Remote Interpreting for Meetings, Conferences, and Training?

Yes. We provide remote interpreting solutions that integrate seamlessly with:

• Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex, and Google Meet
• Hybrid event setups with onsite and virtual attendees
• Live multilingual chat and subtitle support

For a multinational corporation, we provided live interpreting in five languages for an international executive meeting, allowing for seamless cross-cultural discussions.

Do You Offer American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting?

Yes. We provide ASL alongside other remote and in-person interpreting services to ensure that deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals have equal access to education, legal, healthcare, and corporate communications.

Our ASL Services Include:

• Virtual and onsite ASL interpreting
• ASL video overlay for eLearning courses and instructional videos
• Certified ASL interpreters for legal and healthcare settings

For a union leadership development program, we provided ASL interpretation for a live training session, ensuring full inclusivity for all attendees.

Why Choose Interpro?

Interpro Translation Solutions provides end-to-end language services that support eLearning, legal compliance, international business, and member-driven organizations. Our team ensures that every translation meets the highest quality standards while integrating seamlessly with your existing workflows and technology platforms.

What Sets Us Apart?

• ISO-certified quality assurance processes
• Industry-specialized translators with subject matter expertise
• Turnkey localization solutions for eLearning, multimedia, and corporate training

Organizations choose Interpro for high-quality, scalable, and compliance-driven translation services that enhance accessibility, engagement, and international growth.

Need expert translation services? Let’s get started today.

The post Why Choose Interpro? Our Localization Expertise & Technology Capabilities appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Getting Started Translating Marketing Documents

As a CMO or communications strategy manager, you probably already have something in hand that you know you want to translate. Whether it’s internal communications to build better global teams or a campaign to test if global growth is right for you. 

But it’s not enough to say “translate this please”. We need to define the type of document translation you need. 

So what should you expect when asking for a marketing translation? That’s what we’ll cover in this article.

What Is Marketing Document Translation? 

Marketing document translation refers to the adaptation of promotional content such as brochures, websites, social media ads, email campaigns, product catalogs, and more into another language. 

But you’re far more likely to be considering professional localization or transcreation (which we’ll also cover in this article). The translation of marketing material is one of the most challenging areas of the translation and localization industry.

When you’re translating instructions or help documents, the goal is very clear. You’re not trying to be creative. You just need to explain how to use something in a way that makes sense in the new language. Translators need to have subject matter expertise and write clearly. These kinds of translations don’t have hidden messages or special meaning, just facts.

Marketing is very different. Marketing is about getting people to take a desired action. So, the goal of a brochure is not the same as a user guide. A brochure needs to catch attention, persuade, or trigger an emotion – while a user guide just needs to explain how something works.

How to Handle Creative Marketing Campaigns in Translation

So how should the translator handle it? Should they get creative or just stick to the words?

Usually, a translator’s job is to say the same thing in another language without adding or leaving anything out. They localize the content and keep the meaning, style, and cultural tone of the original text intact. But just following those rules doesn’t always work for marketing content. A basic word-for-word translation might not share the real message the company wants people to feel.

Interpro has partnered with many global marketing teams to localize global websites and supporting documentation. 

Translating branded material requires a special kind of subject matter expert who can preserve your brand’s tone, values, and intent while ensuring the content resonates with new cultural and linguistic contexts. This is where transcreation, a blend of creative translation and copywriting, often plays a critical role.

What is Transcreation? 

Transcreation is the adaptation of marketing content across languages in a way that preserves emotional resonance, intent, and brand voice. It often requires collaboration with your team and could involve a complete rewrite by a native-speaking marketer rather than a literal translation. It’s most applicable when direct translation would miss cultural nuance, humor, or persuasive impact.

Take a look at this Coca-Cola ad – this is localization and transcreation in action. It was likely originally developed in English and either localized or transcreated for the Colombian market. Notice how the visuals, tone, and cultural cues were adapted to resonate with local audiences.

Translating marketing material is trickier than it looks. A joke or catchy phrase in one language can sound silly or even rude in another. Slogans and taglines often can’t be translated at all because they depend on culture, wordplay, or local references that don’t exist in other countries. Things like metaphors or rhymes may need to be completely reimagined in the new language. 

When we see creative marketing materials, that’s when we ask: is a regular translator the right person for this kind of creative work?

Transcreation Applications in Marketing:

You may be seeking transcreation services for the following materials:

• Social Media Campaigns: Rewriting taglines, captions, and hashtags so they’re culturally relevant and grab attention in the target language.
• Email Marketing: Adapt subject lines, CTAs, and body content to reflect relevant offers for the target audience, voice, tone, and preferences of local readers.
• Websites: Reworking hero copy, value propositions, headlines, and even visuals to appeal to cultural buying behaviors and expectations.
• Internal Culture Campaigns: Translating company values or DEI messaging in a way that resonates with global teams, not just linguistically but emotionally and contextually.
• Ad Copy & Slogans: Replacing or rewriting slogans that rely on wordplay, idioms, or emotional appeal so they make sense and have the same persuasive power in another market.
• Product packaging, brochures, and catalogs for international distributors

To clarify:

• Standard translation conveys meaning accurately, focusing on word-for-word conversion.
• Marketing translation and localization ensures that meaning is emotionally relevant and culturally aligned, and the brand visuals and voice stay consistent across marketing channels.
• Transcreation goes even further, recreating content to evoke the same impact, emotion, and action in each target market, often requiring a total rewrite rather than a direct translation.

Transcreation Examples in Marketing

Slogan transcreation example: “Crack Open a Smile”

“Crack Open a Smile” may become “Happiness in Every Sip” in one language and “Taste Joyfully” in another to retain its original sentiment.

It might land well in English, but directly translating it to another language could confuse or even alienate the target audience. In transcreation, that phrase is reimagined to retain its original intention but make sense in the new language. 

Graphics localization example: Visit Orlando 

One of Interpro’s clients did transcreation of marketing brochures that included:

• Visual representation: Making sure the audience sees themselves reflected in the content increases relatability and trust.
• Cultural relevance: Certain images, colors, gestures, or expressions may carry different connotations across cultures.
• Emotional resonance: The goal is to recreate a brand that resonates with emotional impact for a different audience, which often requires changes to images, layout, tone, and phrasing. 

Interpro has helped countless clients tailor their documents for diverse U.S. audiences or global marketing campaigns. We connect you with the right subject matter expert to ensure your message is understood and impactful.

This image is a perfect example of transcreation in practice. Rather than simply translating the text of a vacation guide, the publishers adapted the entire experience for different cultural audiences. The Chinese-language version features imagery and messaging tailored to resonate with Asian families, while the Spanish-language version highlights visuals more relatable to Hispanic audiences. 

When seeking language services, you’ll want to consider the level of translation, localization, or transcreation you’ll need. A provider like Interpro can provide consultative advice on what level of localization will be the best fit, depending on your marketing goals.

How Your Translation Partner Seriously Impacts a Successful Global Growth Strategy 

A well-documented example of global branding gone wrong is KFC’s mistranslation of its slogan “Finger Lickin’ Good” in China. When KFC entered the Chinese market in the late 1980s, the slogan was translated literally, resulting in the phrase “Eat your fingers off.” This translation not only confused consumers but also damaged KFC’s brand image in China, forcing the company to quickly correct the error and adjust its marketing approach.

Investing in high-quality marketing translation helps you:

• Protect your brand from misinterpretation and reputational damage
• Build trust with local audiences who feel understood and respected
• Increase conversions and engagement by aligning content with cultural values

In fact, research shows that 76% of consumers prefer to buy products in their native language, and over 40% say they won’t even consider purchasing from websites in other languages.

But how do you make sure your brand doesn’t end up like KFC’s?

Successful global expansion requires teamwork and collaboration from many subject matter experts. The translator does their best job, shares helpful notes or suggestions, and brings ideas to the table. But only the client knows their brand, their audience, and how they want to be seen. They’re the ones who should make the final creative choices. But you need a partner that can bring that creativity to life in other languages.

We frequently collaborate with clients to create tools to elevate your brand. We suggest:

• Provide a detailed creative brief to help the team understand the complexity of the marketing materials.
• Providing past marketing references.
• Creating tools like translation glossaries or style guides to educate the translation team on your brand. 
• Share feedback on the translation and send back the edited version. When clients and translators work together, the results are better and both sides are more excited to work on the next project.

We’ve seen this time and time again – businesses that invest in translation and localization the way they invest in their brand pays off in global expansion. Armstrong International is a clear example of an Interpro client experiencing global growth through localization. 

Key Takeaways: Marketing Translation Challenges (And How to Solve Them)

Your translation partner should be able to offer expert guidance on how to navigate considerations like these:

1. Cultural Nuances Marketing thrives on emotional resonance: humor, idioms, and wordplay. These often don’t translate directly. A campaign slogan that’s witty in English might sound flat or inappropriate in another language. To solve this, we use transcreation, working with in-country linguists who deeply understand both language and culture.
2. Design Limitations In DTP-heavy formats like InDesign, even small changes in word length can cause major layout shifts. Right-to-left languages like Arabic require mirrored formatting. We collaborate early with client design teams to adjust layouts and prevent costly redesigns post-translation.
3. Missing Source Files Clients sometimes only have PDFs and not the original design files. In these cases we can recreate the PDF to be editable, but doing this adds substantial time and cost. Planning ahead ensures your translation partner receives native files like .INDD or .PSD to streamline the process.
4. Regulatory and Legal Language Industries like healthcare, finance, and education require marketing copy to meet strict legal and compliance standards. Our certified translators are also subject matter experts who ensure these materials remain accurate and legally sound.
5. International Content Strategy: SEO and search behavior isn’t universal. A keyword that drives traffic in the U.S. might not even register with users in Mexico or Germany. China uses a completely different search engine from the states. You’ll need to localize your strategy along with the content. 
6. Transcreate key messages: CTAs, headlines, and taglines often need more than direct translation to preserve persuasive impact. Native speakers familiar with local trends and consumer behavior can fine-tune messaging for effectiveness.
7. Create a brand glossary and tone guide: This ensures brand consistency across campaigns globally and prevents misalignment during the localization process.
8. Involve your language partner early: Don’t wait until after the design is finalized. Collaboration from the start avoids rework and delays

Need Help? Interpro offers complimentary marketing translation consultations because we know you need advice on how to get started before you get started. Let’s ensure your brand speaks clearly, confidently, and culturally in every market you serve.

Real Marketing Translation Example: Carewell

Carewell provides healthcare training to multilingual communities. They’ve partnered with Interpro to translate complex InDesign documents and promotional assets. Our team helped them translate marketing documents across many different languages, in addition to videos, educational courses, and their website.

Interpro’s client, Carewell, translates many healthcare and promotional document materials for their audience. 

“Working with Interpro made a world of difference,” said Nicole Fullerton, Customer Innovations Manager.“ They understand how to maintain message integrity while adapting to each audience. We’ve seen stronger engagement from caregivers and better performance across the board.”

Great marketing translation requires a partner who:

• Specializes in marketing, creative, and transcreation services
• Offers DTP and file engineering for complex layouts and file types
• Has a multi-layered quality assurance processes 
• Takes a collaborative approach from initial strategy to final delivery

Launch Your Next Global Campaign with Localization Experts

We know translating and localizing marketing campaigns isn’t easy. The advice we provide is based on a successful track record translating thousands of projects over more than thirty years, and we have the expertise to help your business expand into new markets. 

Want a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the professional translation experience? Book a free consultation and sample translation to see how we provide localization strategy advice and approach your branded materials.

The post How to Translate Marketing Documents as a Global Growth Strategy appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

In today’s global marketplace, telling your brand’s story across cultural and linguistic boundaries can be challenging. As a leader in the language services industry, Interpro Translation Solutions knows the key isn’t just translation—it’s localization. Let’s explore why both are critical when analyzing how to choose a translation company.

Topics covered in this article:

• What are the differences between translation and localization?
• What is translation?
• What is localization?
• Translation vs Localization Example
• Commonly Localized Elements
• Why Localization Matters in Business
• Localization Examples by Industry
• Next Steps: Translation is One Part of the Localization Process

What are the differences between translation and localization?

Translation and localization may seem similar, but they serve different purposes. Translation transforms the text, but localization transforms the content entirely.

Translation converts text from one language to another and aspires to language accuracy, while localization adapts content to fit the cultural norms and preferences of the target audience to ensure cultural relevance.

What is Translation?

In its simplest form, translation means taking your message and changing it into another language, so people from different parts of the world can understand it. It’s all about making sure the words match from one language to another.

What is Localization?

Localization goes a step further; it’s about making sure your message feels right at home in another culture. This means not just changing your words into another language but also considering local customs, humor, the audience, and tone of voice.

In essence, while translation handles the linguistic part of the communication, localization ensures the message is culturally and contextually tailored to the audience, making the entire experience feel native to them.

Another way to think about it: Both translation and localization are essential for talking to the world—the first makes sure you’re heard, and the second makes sure you’re understood.

While translation opens the door to a new language, localization invites people in, makes them comfortable, and helps them understand your brand in a way that feels specially tailored for them.

To learn about localization further, read What is Localization and Why is it Important?

Translation vs. Localization Example

Here’s a table translating “hello”:

But do you want a formal greeting or an informal greeting? Depending on your brand and target audience, this is a simple example of localization and changing the content based on your intended message.

Here’s the same table with both informal and formal localizations and how this very simple tone shift would change the translation:

Commonly Localized Elements

Localization also takes into account colors, imagery, idioms and so many other nuances that may not translate well and could adjust these to better appeal to the local market.

Here are some elements that commonly need to be localized:

• Language nuances, jokes, slang, idioms
• Date
• Time
• Measurement units (metric vs. imperial)
• Currency
• Phone numbers
• Websites
• SEO, keywords, metadata, tags, product descriptions
• Graphic Text
• Icons
• Colors
• Tone/directness
• Legal compliance to laws and regulations
• Right-to-left (RTL) language support
• Space and formatting
• Non-English script support (Russian, Japanese, Greek, Hindi, etc)

This is why Interpro offers localization consulting with expert advice for any project in any industry. This service is all about making sure your content fits the language and culture of its new audience, including the specific words and sensitivities of different sectors.

Why Localization Matters in Business

Localization is crucial for scaling a business globally because it enhances communication. It makes your message clear and culturally appropriate, helping international audiences understand, connect, and trust your brand.

Building trust can increase sales and brand loyalty by showing respect for local cultures and languages, and improve user experience by adapting products and services to meet local preferences. Additionally, localization boosts market reach by addressing language barriers and local nuances, increases competitive advantage by differentiating your brand from competitors, and ensures compliance with local legal and regulatory standards.

Franchise Company Example: McDonald’s is a prime example of a company that has used localization to successfully grow internationally. In different countries, McDonald’s tailors its menu to local tastes and preferences. For instance, in India, where beef is not widely consumed for religious reasons, McDonald’s offers the Chicken Maharaja Mac and the McAloo Tikki burger. In Japan, they have introduced items like the Teriyaki McBurger. This localization strategy has helped McDonald’s resonate with local customers, driving global expansion and increasing market share in diverse regions.

Single Document Example: While translation might accurately convert an English user manual into Spanish, localization would ensure that the measurements in the manual are converted to the metric system if it’s being used in a country that prefers metric units. It would also ensure the customer service line goes to local business that speaks the language.

Interpro is a company that illustrates the comprehensive approach to localization, offering services to help clients’ content resonate within each specific cultural and linguistic framework. We engage native speakers with an in-depth understanding of local customs to ensure their translations are not only accurate but also culturally relevant.

Furthermore, we offer our clients specialized translation and localization services for a wide range of applications, including eLearning materials, documents, videos, websites, and software. Here are just some that we assist with:

Localization Examples by Industry

Interpro places a strong emphasis on the industry-specific requirements that necessitate a deep understanding of localization.

Associations & Nonprofit Localization

Interpro enhances outreach by localizing content to resonate with diverse communities while preserving the core message.

For example, a global nonprofit organization used Interpro’s services to translate their website materials into multiple languages. Localization included adapting educational content and communication to reflect local cultural values and traditions, ensuring that their message was both respectful and compelling across different regions. This approach led to increased engagement and understanding among members.

eLearning & Education Localization

Interpro transforms educational content to align with local learning styles and cultural contexts.

For instance, an international eLearning platform worked with Interpro to localize their training modules for various markets. This involved not only translating text but also adapting examples, idioms, and scenarios to be culturally relevant. By incorporating local educational practices and sensitivities, the platform improved learner engagement and satisfaction, leading to better educational outcomes and broader acceptance in new regions.

Healthcare & Medical Localization

Interpro prioritizes precision and cultural sensitivity in medical translations to ensure patient safety and compliance.

For example, a benefits company used Interpro to translate patient benefits and clinical documentation. Localization involved adapting medical terms and instructions to match local medical practices and regulatory requirements. This meticulous approach prevented potential misunderstandings and ensured that patients received accurate and culturally appropriate information, thereby safeguarding health outcomes and enhancing regulatory compliance.

Human Resources Localization

Interpro customizes HR materials to meet local legal and cultural expectations.

For instance, a multinational corporation relied on Interpro to translate and localize their employee handbooks and training programs. Localization included adjusting workplace policies and benefits descriptions to align with local labor laws and cultural norms. This ensured that employees in different regions received clear, compliant, and culturally relevant HR information, which helped improve employee satisfaction and reduce legal risks.

Manufacturing Localization

Interpro adapts technical documentation and operational instructions to local standards and practices.

For example, a global manufacturing company worked with Interpro to localize their equipment manuals and safety guidelines for various international markets. Localization involved translating technical terms and units of measurement, as well as adapting safety protocols to comply with local regulations. This enabled the company to maintain consistent quality and safety standards while efficiently serving diverse global markets.

eCommerce Localization

Interpro localizes online shopping experiences to cater to regional preferences and behaviors.

For example, an international eCommerce platform used Interpro to translate and localize their website and product descriptions. Localization included adapting currency formats, payment methods, and marketing messages to align with local shopping habits and preferences. This approach enhanced user experience, increased conversion rates, and boosted sales across different regions by making the online shopping experience more relevant and accessible.

Travel Localization

Interpro tailors travel content to reflect local customs and preferences.

For instance, a global travel agency partnered with Interpro to localize their promotional materials, travel guides, and booking platforms. Localization involved translating travel recommendations and itineraries into local languages while considering cultural norms and tourism trends. This ensured that the content resonated with travelers from different regions, enhancing their engagement and satisfaction with the agency’s offerings and services.

These examples showcase the depth of cultural understanding required in localization. Interpro’s focus on such diversity highlights its dedication to delivering content that is not just linguistically accurate but also culturally relevant and sensitive.

What About AI Translation & Localization?

While human translation remains the gold standard, tight timelines or constrained budgets can come into play. That’s where AI translation services emerge as an attractive alternative.

But can this technology effectively localize content? Sometimes.

Interpro has stepped forward with innovative AI Translation Services that marry the efficiency of artificial intelligence with the nuanced understanding of human experts. This hybrid approach provides a more time and cost-effective solution for language needs while acknowledging the limitations of AI in capturing the subtleties of cultural localization.

AI translation is less error-prone when applied to more straightforward content types, such as instructions, technical specifications, and user manuals. However, with content that has more emotional depth or marketing messages aimed at specific cultural groups, the technology is limited due to its lack of localization capabilities. Learn more about implementing AI translation into your company’s processes.

Next Steps: Translation is One Part of the Localization Process

Translation is the process of converting text from one language to another, preserving the meaning and context as much as possible. On the other hand, localization goes beyond mere translation; it involves adapting a product or content to a particular locale’s language and cultural context. This means considering regional differences, cultural nuances, customs, and even local regulations.

If you’re wondering how to choose a translation company, it’s critical to understand that the company should not just provide translation services but be a localization agency at the core of their processes. Localization is one of the most important aspects to ensure communication success.

Here’s a list of next step action points for choosing a translation company:

1. Verify Translators are Native Speakers with Cultural and Industry Expertise: Ensure the company employs native speakers who live in the target language’s country and are professional translators specializing in localizing your industry’s content.
2. Check Quality Assurance Processes: Look for a company that uses different native speakers for translation and proofreading to guarantee accuracy and cultural alignment. Look for things like certified translations, ISO certifications, workmanship guarantees, and extensive quality assurance processes.
3. Consider a Localization Consultation with Interpro: These are free for any company looking for a translation partner and will ensure you understand the localization requirements for your specific project. We can help you determine if you need localization assistance (and how much localization is required).

Knowing the difference between localization and translation is key for global brand success. Interpro emphasizes the importance of going beyond basic translation to fully grasp cultural nuances, specific industry language, and the newest technology. We also take pride in our tailored services, expert advice, and high-quality commitment.

By paying attention to the details of localization, we help brands like yours connect meaningfully with people worldwide. After all, in the global marketplace, it’s more than just talking the language—it’s about speaking it in a way that’s culturally insightful and sensitive.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Localization vs. Translation: Do You Know the Difference? appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

In our increasingly globalized marketplace, communicating across languages and cultures is beneficial and vital for success. Interpro Translation Solutions deeply understands this. We’ve pioneered a meticulous translation process to ensure your project’s translation and localization needs aren’t just met but exceeded. The result? Efficiency, accuracy, and simplicity from project inception to final delivery.

Topics covered in this article:

• Step 1: Start with a Complimentary Localization Strategy Session
• Step 2: Questions to Ask Before Beginning the Translation Process
• Step 3: Project Kickoff Call
• Step 4: Rigorous Translation-Revision-Proofreading (TRP) Process
• Step 5: Quality Assurance & Final Delivery
• Next Steps to Launch Your Translation Project

Step 1: Start with a Complimentary Localization Strategy Session

While this step isn’t required, the Interpro team highly recommends it. We approach the translation process as a people-first process, which means making sure you’re comfortable, happy, and excited to partner with our expert team.

That’s why we will host a complimentary localization strategy session with you before diving into your project. During this call, you’ll help us understand your project’s scope, language requirements, budget, and timeline. This session allows us to ensure we are the right partner for your specific needs tailor our services to your specific needs, and address any questions you may have right up front.

Here are the key elements we focus on to guarantee a smooth localization experience:

• We’re committed to addressing all your questions about the translation process. No question is too small—every detail matters.
• Understanding how much localization is required, including whether special formatting (like Multilingual Desktop Publishing) is necessary, sets the foundation for your project.
• We clarify the project’s scope, ensuring you know which languages (or language variants) are involved and the tone and style that will resonate with your target audience.
• Any legal or compliance issues will be identified, with solutions provided to mitigate risks.
• Knowing the expected timeline helps you plan effectively and manage expectations.
• We’ll outline the format for the final translated materials, so you know what to expect.
• Understanding how feedback works and your role in resolving any issues fosters collaboration and improves the outcome.
• Finally, we’ll deliver a comprehensive quote with a maximum price, ensuring no surprises along the way.

Step 2: Questions to Ask Before Beginning the Translation Process

Here are some example questions that can be answered – and we encourage you to ask! If you’re currently looking for a translation, we cover how you can be prepared to interview a translation agency more in-depth.

Technical Capabilities and Experience Questions:

• Do you have native speakers for the specific languages required?
• Is AI used to translate? Or do you use a team of all human linguists?
• How does your team ensure the quality and cultural relevance of translations?
• Are you familiar with the platforms and authoring tools we use?
• What common barriers should we be prepared to handle with this project? And how does your team handle them?
• Can your team handle the technical aspects like formatting, multimedia elements, or platform-specific integrations?
• What quality control processes are in place? How does the team handle proofreading, editing, and ensuring accuracy in both content and tone?

Project Specific Questions:

• What experience does the agency have in translating [insert your industry]?
• Can you provide case studies or references from similar projects?
• What is your estimated timeline for completing a project of this size? Can you meet our deadlines?
• How do you ensure that the translations are culturally appropriate and sensitive? Do your team have a process for localizing content beyond just language translation?
• Do you see any difficult localization problems in our project that would need further collaboration from our team?
• How much input will we have during the translation process? Will we be able to review and approve translations before finalization?
• How do your linguists handle revisions and feedback? Is there a clear process for making changes requested by our internal team after completing the initial translation?
• Who will be managing our project? What is their experience, and how will they communicate progress and handle any issues that arise?
• How do they ensure the confidentiality of our materials? What measures are in place to protect sensitive information?
• Do you offer ongoing support after the initial translation, such as updates or revisions to the translated content?

Industry Example: Highly Specific eLearning Translation Questions:

These consultation calls can also answer any of your highly specific questions, no matter your industry. We provided some commonly asked eLearning translation and localization questions as an example of how detailed a strategy session can get. We aim to ensure that all your concerns are addressed and that our team understands your requirements so we can deliver the product you expect.

These are some questions we often get from our new eLearning clients:

• Platform Compatibility: How does your agency ensure that localized content remains fully compatible with our eLearning platforms, including SCORM and xAPI standards? Can you provide examples of how you’ve handled complex interactions or assessments in different languages?
• Learner Engagement: How do you adapt multimedia elements like videos, animations, and interactive quizzes to maintain learner engagement across different languages and cultures? Are voice overs and subtitles localized or merely translated?
• Cultural Relevance: How do you approach localizing culturally sensitive content, such as examples, case studies, and scenarios that might need to be adapted or replaced for different cultural contexts?
• User Interface (UI) Localization: What is your process for localizing the user interface of our eLearning courses? How do you handle right-to-left languages, character expansion in text, and other UI adjustments to ensure a seamless user experience?
• Assessment Integrity: How do you ensure that assessments and quizzes maintain integrity and fairness after localization? Do you adapt question formats, scoring methods, or feedback mechanisms to suit different educational norms or expectations in various regions?

eLearning Translation Resources

If you’re starting the eLearning localization process, we have lots of resources to help you get prepared:

• Lost in Translation? How to Find the Perfect eLearning Translation Company
• eLearning Translation Crash Course: Introduction and Benefits
• How to do eLearning Localization Right
• Our eLearning Localization Services

Step 3: Project Kickoff Call

Once the translation and localization strategy is in place and you’re comfortable with the quote and the entire translation process, we will dedicate a Project Manager (PM) to your account. Your Interpro PM will serve as a bridge between you and our expert translators, safeguarding your project’s quality, timeline, and specifications. Your dedicated PM will be your point of contact, delving deeper into the purpose, audience, and goals of your content.

Your Project Manager will arrange a kickoff call with your translation team:

• Your company’s internal stakeholders for the project
• Your account manager who started your strategy calls
• Your backup Project Manager (in case your primary PM takes a vacation)
• A Multilingual DTP specialist (if needed for the project)
• A Subject Matter Expert (SME) for specific industry knowledge (if applicable)

The kickoff call stage ensures the team is fully aligned with your expectations. This kickoff call is not about introducing new information but rather ensuring that the entire project is understood and on the same page. During the call, we’ll confirm that everyone understands the following:

• Your brand’s voice, including on-brand and off-brand elements and special project requirements.
• Any industry-specific terminology that’s essential for accurate translation.
• The content’s format and how it should be delivered.
• The project timeline, including key milestones from start to finish.

If any additional translation tools will be developed for the project, such as a Translation Style Guide or Glossary.

Adapting to Your File Formats

At Interpro, we understand that content comes in various shapes and sizes. So, we eliminate the extra step of having you convert your files into a standard format. Whether your content is in a JSON, InDesign, or Storyline format, we work with the material as is, ensuring the final product is returned in the same format and ready for use. This approach significantly reduces the risk of errors by preserving your information’s original context and layout.

We have experience with all the common applications and file types, but always reach out if you have questions for more custom authoring platforms. Our engineering team has successfully handled every platform we’ve encountered.

Step 4: Rigorous Translation-Revision-Proofreading (TRP) Process

Interpro adopts a stringent TRP process, with each stage executed by different specialists to guarantee the highest accuracy and fidelity to the original text. This multi-tiered approach ensures that translations are accurate and resonate with the target audience’s cultural and linguistic nuances. The process begins with:

1. Service Match – Determining the optimal translation approach, whether human or AI-driven.
2. Translator Match – Assigning a native-speaking translator with expertise in your content’s subject matter and a deep understanding of the target culture.
3. Proofreader Match – Ensuring a separate native-speaking proofreader reviews the content, reinforcing accuracy and adherence to brand standards.

Once your TRP team is selected and the initial translation is complete, your project will go through the following steps:

1. Revision – Just as you might miss your own writing errors in English, the same applies to other languages! It’s difficult to proofread your own work, regardless of the language. To err is human, after all. (Alexander Pope)
2. Proofreading – The agency should also match the translator with another native speaker who’s a trained proofreader. This will ensure your content is as accurate and on-brand as possible.
3. Finalization – Once the content has been translated and proofread, it’s ready for final delivery to you in the same file format you delivered to our team.

Before Finalization, your project will undergo quality assurance. We explain this process in more detail in Step 5.

Adjusting the Project Based on Your Needs

We know the translation process can be complicated and confusing, especially if you’re working with complicated projects like websites or eLearning. We’ve outlined how we adjust the translation process based on your specific requirements.

Step 5: Quality Assurance & Final Delivery

Choosing a translation company with high quality standards for your translation project is crucial to success. We use a detailed and systematic approach to ensure that every translation meets our high standards of accuracy and consistency.

Quality Assurance isn’t something that happens only at the end of the project. It’s a process that is layered in with the other translation steps and begins from the first call to understanding your translation needs and ends after the final delivery.

How to Layer Quality Assurance Into the Translation Process:

Initial Review: After translation, the content undergoes an initial review to check for accuracy and adherence to the project’s requirements. This step ensures that the translation aligns with the intended message and maintains the original content’s meaning.

Proofreading: A separate, experienced proofreader reviews the translated content. This stage focuses on correcting any grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors while ensuring the translation’s style and tone match your brand’s voice.

Final Quality Check and Validation: Our team performs a comprehensive final quality check to confirm that all revisions have been correctly implemented and that the final output is flawless. This includes verifying formatting and ensuring that the translation is culturally appropriate and sensitive to the target audience.

Client Feedback: If needed, we incorporate any client feedback and make final adjustments to ensure the translation meets your expectations and requirements. This feedback is also used to improve future translation projects.

Beyond these steps, Interpro uses the following certifications, industry standards, and best practices to ensure you’re getting the highest level of accuracy and quality:

Certified Translations

When you choose a translation company like Interpro that offers certified translations, you ensure that your translated documents meet official standards of accuracy and reliability. Certified translations come with an official stamp or certification from the translation agency, confirming that the work adheres to recognized industry standards.

Certified translations are particularly important for legal, official, and professional documents where accuracy is crucial. They assure that the translations have been completed per the Association of Translation Companies (ATC) guidelines and ISO standards, which helps maintain high-quality translation services.

ISO Certifications for Translation and Quality

Choosing a translation company with ISO certifications ensures you receive top-notch quality in everything – from the actual translation quality to the customer service. ISO certifications like ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17100:2015 signify that the company adheres to rigorous international standards for quality management and translation services.

By selecting a company with these certifications, you can be confident that their processes and outputs meet the highest industry standards.

Interpro’s Workmanship Guarantee

Interpro has an unwavering commitment to quality at every stage of the translation process. We back all our work with a Workmanship Guarantee and proudly offer certified translation for any service.

Upon the completion of TRP, we review your content again and then prepare it for delivery, ensuring that it meets Interpro’s high-quality standards and your expectations.

Final Note: Adjusting the Project Based on Your Needs

We know the translation process can be complicated and confusing, especially if you’re working with complicated projects like websites or eLearning. We’ve outlined how we adjust the translation process based on your specific requirements.

Here are some common high-level considerations that may change depending on the type of translation project:

Multilingual DTP Process

The Multilingual Desktop Publishing (DTP) Process enhances document translation. It ensures you have visually appealing and brand-consistent publications across different languages. The process includes careful examination of your content before formatting, adjusting for language expansion or shrinkage, reformatting modified indexes and references, and localizing images and graphics.

The DTP process also makes sure you have the appropriate layout; corrects formatting issues like colors and fonts (substituting fonts if necessary); and adapts the direction of text for right-to-left languages.

The process concludes with a thorough post-DTP quality assurance to guarantee that we’ve accurately formatted your final, translated materials to match the source documents, so you can simply deploy and go.

eLearning Localization Process

The eLearning Localization process offers the perfect learning experience for diverse audiences through effective translation and localization carried out by our specialized team. In this comprehensive process, Interpro handles the translation of course scripts, workbooks, and event materials. We also handle subtitle, caption, and voice over translation for videos. Finally, we provide interpreting services for live or recorded training sessions.

To start, our professional linguists will translate your course script. Next, it will go through a review and approval step. The team then sets pronunciation and recording guidelines before proceeding with the professional recording of voice overs and subtitles. Depending on the project’s needs, options for text-to-speech and synthetic voice overs are also available. The process makes sure that the audio and text sync with the video, and that the onscreen interactions align with the target language’s voice over.

Our expert team then conducts localization validation for all interactive elements like quizzes and assessments. The last step involves publishing the fully localized course according to specific publication settings, aiming to deliver a precise and enriching learning experience.

Video Translation Process

The Video Translation process prepares video content with the same attention to detail, translating scripts, recording professional voice overs, and ensuring subtitles and audio sync with the visual experience to retain your message’s impact across languages and cultures.

Website Localization Process

The Website Translation process tailors multilingual solutions for international websites. Our clients first provide their website files to us. Then, we analyze the files to scope the project and offer a price quote and schedule. Next, our professional linguists translate, revise, and proofread your content. They then upload the translated files to a staging site for quality assurance (QA), meticulously checking each page against the source site. After making any necessary modifications and completing a final QA, Interpro delivers the localized files to you.

Software Translation Process

Interpro excels in Software Localization, tackling resource files, dialogs and messages for a native user experience. First, our clients provide us with resource files or strings. Interpro will provide a price, timeline, and quote. Once you give the green light, our professional linguists get to work localizing various components, such as dialogs, messages and reports. Finally, our expert team validates the translated software, implements necessary modifications, and delivers the files in the target language for deployment in global markets.

Interpreting Process

Our Interpreting Process cater to various formats to ensure your multilingual communication is always clear and professional:

• remote simultaneous interpretation with real-time engagement for web meetings and other virtual events.
• on-site interpretation for a more traditional setting like conferences or Instructor Led Training.

The first step in our event interpreting process is for clients to communicate the event type, dates and required languages. Interpro then assists in selecting the best interpretation solution, whether Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) or On-Site Interpretation. We match the event with interpreters who have the appropriate language skills and subject matter expertise. Interpro then introduces clients to the interpreters and technical support team. For Remote Simultaneous Interpretation, the Interpro team performs a test run using the chosen interpreting technology platform. They can also record and translate the event’s interpretation if notified in advance.

Next Steps to Launch Your Translation Project

With the exception of our rigorous quality translation steps, the Interpro translation process and localization process are inherently flexible. We designed them to specifically adapt to the diverse needs of our clients. With Interpro, you can expect a partnership with a translation company that not only delivers linguistically and culturally accurate translations but also aligns closely with your global communication goals.

The post The Ultimate Guide on Understanding the Translation Process appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

In today’s increasingly diverse and inclusive world, ensuring that materials are accessible to everyone has never been more important. That’s where Section 508 steps in, providing guidelines to promote equal access for individuals with disabilities. So, grab your cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the intricate world of translation compliance. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to ensure accessibility in translated content.

Key topics covered in this article:

• Translation Language Requirements for Section 508 vs ADA Compliance
• Section 508 Compliance for Translation and Localization Services
• Reduce Language Barriers with POUR (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust)
• Translation Compliance Best Practices for Common Accessibility Challenges
• Tools and Resources for Ensuring Section 508 Accessibility

Translation Language Requirements for Section 508 vs ADA Compliance

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and Section 508 compliance both aim to ensure accessibility and non-discrimination, but neither have specific requirements for providing translated materials for non-English-speaking individuals.

However, the ADA and Section 508 are like our accessibility superheroes, with the goal of ensuring everyone can access information regardless of ability. It’s not just about websites and docs meeting a few requirements; it’s about the bigger goal of ensuring equal opportunity access to important information. Depending on your organization’s industry and audience, there can be other governing bodies or regulations for your organization that require your translated materials to meet ADA or Section 508 requirements.

According to this article on Section 508 vs ADA compliance:

The ADA is a civil rights law ensuring equal access for people with disabilities across various public and private sectors. An ADA compliant translation is used specifically to ensure that an individual can still access information despite a communication disability that affects their ability to comprehend, detect, or apply language and speech. This includes vision, hearing, or speech disabilities.

Section 508 mandates that federal agencies make their web-based and digital information accessible to individuals with disabilities. It also applies to organizations that receive federal funding or are involved in federal contracts.

To Summarize: Accessibility after translation for Section 508 or ADA compliance might not be required directly by these bodies, but may be required for your organization or if your goal is to ensure information access without language barriers for people with disabilities.

We always recommend working with your legal counsel and your compliance team to set a standard for your organization’s language requirements. While the ADA and Section 508 are the cornerstones for accessibility in the United States, there are many more diverse laws and guidelines globally. Language requirements for multilingual content can vary based on your industry, global audience’s location, government requirements, and more.

We also believe that as digital tools such as websites, digital documents, and AI translation technologies continue to develop, these compliance requirements will grow and become more strict to include requirements for organizations with multilingual audiences.

The rest of this article will mostly focus on Section 508 compliance because it has direct requirements for information to be accessible to people with disabilities specifically for websites, online content, and digital documents. Whereas the ADA ensures broader everyday business practices are accessible to the general public, including those with disabilities.

As language professionals, we ensure your materials are accessible even after translation. This guarantees that your translated content meets Section 508 requirements as determined by your organization and legal counsel, ensuring compliance in every language.

Section 508 Compliance for Translation and Localization Services

So, why does Section 508 compliance matter for translated content? Imagine trying to access crucial information in a language you don’t understand and then throwing in a disability on top of that—talk about a tough situation, right?

Did you know that on average, 13.2 million people in the US have at least one disability that Section 508 is meant to assist? When thinking about localizing your digital content, factoring Section 508 compliance into the equation means you could be reaching 20% more of your target audience than you might have missed otherwise.

Therefore, we recommend your localized digital content, website, or mobile applications in other languages meet Section 508 compliance by being accessible to users of all levels of ability.

Reduce Language Barriers with POUR (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust)

Now, let’s talk about the four principles of accessibility, also known as POUR: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Think of it like building a sturdy bridge that connects people with disabilities to vital information.

Here’s what each principle means:

• Perceivable: Make sure all users can perceive the information, regardless of their senses. For example, providing alt text for images ensures that screen readers can convey the information to users who are visually impaired.
• Operable: Ensure that the content is easy to navigate and interact with, especially for those with motor disabilities. This might involve providing keyboard shortcuts or making interactive elements accessible.
• Understandable: Keep the content clear and easy to understand, especially for users with cognitive limitations. This could mean using plain language, avoiding jargon, and providing explanations for complex concepts.
• Robust: Ensure the content remains accessible as technology advances, working well with assistive technologies. Regular testing and updates can help ensure that translated materials remain accessible over time.

Translation Compliance Best Practices for Common Accessibility Challenges

Translating content while keeping it accessible can sometimes feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube – challenging, but totally doable if you know the right moves to make!

An example of a common challenge is providing text alternatives for images and multimedia content. This is super important for individuals who rely on screen readers to access information.

Another common challenge is language and cultural differences, which can make translating content challenging. Recognizing these cultural differences during translation is crucial for creating accessible translations.

Let’s cover some top-notch best practices for ensuring Section 508 compliance in translated materials.

Best Practices for Accessible Translations

1. Clearly define accessibility requirements: Accessibility covers a broad range of topics. It is not enough to say “I need the PDF to be accessible”. Sharing detailed requirements such as “ensure schematic markup is applied after translation” allows a language provider to ensure the requirement is understood, translated, and included in linguistic QA review cycles.
2. Collaborate with accessibility experts: Your compliance and legal counsel should be involved early in the translation process to identify and tackle potential accessibility issues. For example, involve them in the design phase to ensure that content structure and layout are conducive to accessibility.
3. Use accessible file formats: Think-tagged PDFs or HTML formats that support assistive technologies. Ensure that documents are properly structured and include metadata for improved navigation.
4. Keep language clear and simple: Say goodbye to jargon and complicated sentences. Keep it plain and straightforward to make sure everyone can understand. Providing explanations or definitions for specialized terminology can also help improve clarity.
5. Ensure translated web content is screen reader-friendly: Test, test, and test some more to ensure compatibility and proper reading order. Oh, and don’t forget to use descriptive alt text for images! Providing skip navigation links and landmarks can also facilitate navigation for screen reader users.
6. Include subtitles or transcripts: Make sure to include subtitles or transcripts for all those videos you’re translating. It’s like adding subtitles to a foreign movie – essential for those who need it! Be sure to synchronize subtitles properly and format them for easy readability.
7. Choose plain language and localize as necessary: Tailor your content to fit cultural and linguistic preferences while keeping it crystal clear. Consider individuals with cognitive disabilities or different language backgrounds and be mindful of cultural sensitivities and regional language differences. Providing accurate and culturally appropriate translations can improve accessibility for diverse audiences.
8. Verify compatibility with assistive technologies: Make sure your translated content plays nicely with assistive technologies used by individuals with motor impairments. Test, tweak, and test again until everything works like a charm. Providing keyboard shortcuts and ensuring interactive elements are accessible via keyboard navigation can enhance accessibility for users with motor disabilities.

Tools and Resources for Ensuring Section 508 Accessibility

Alright, let’s talk about tools and resources.

Explore a variety of accessibility testing tools and guidelines to identify and tackle accessibility issues like a pro. Follow government checklists as part of the localization process to ensure your digital content ticks all the Section 508 boxes. You can learn more about Section 508 and digital accessibility from the Environmental Protection Agency’s resources at this link.

And don’t forget to brush up on key accessibility guidelines and standards, like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), to ensure your translated materials are top-notch.

In summary, prioritizing Section 508 compliance in translations isn’t just about breaking language barriers—it’s about breaking down barriers to information for everyone. By understanding the importance of Section 508 accessibility, embracing best practices, and staying up to date with emerging technologies, we can ensure everyone has a seat at the table.

Ready to make your translated materials accessible?

At Interpro, we’re here to help translate your materials to meet Section 508 standards. We understand the importance of accessibility and believe in the power of language to connect people.

Next Steps:

1. It’s essential that you work closely with your internal teams to determine what Section 508 standards your translated content needs to meet.
2. Schedule a complimentary localization consultation with our team. We’ll create a game plan with you to ensure that our translation process matches your accessibility requirements in the target language(s).

Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of language or ability, can access important information without barriers.

The post Section 508 and ADA Translation Compliance: A Guide to Accessibility appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

What is localization and why is it important?

Localization—also called global localization—is the process of adapting content to meet a country or region’s language, culture, and other specific requirements. This process can be applied to nearly any content format, from websites and videos to business documents and publications. Localization differs from translation because it goes beyond translating words. It captures cultural, linguistic, and contextual elements to resonate with a new target audience.

Localization is widely used by companies targeting international markets, yet it can also be helpful for cross-cultural communications within the United States. American residents speak more than 300 different languages in homes and communities nationwide.

The goal of localization is for the translated adaptation to be so smooth the target audience does not realize it is based on an English source. Localizing content enables brands to build trust and increase audience engagement authentically. It’s a way to show that the business values the audience’s unique needs and experiences.

What Does a Localization Company Do?

Many people often wonder “what will a localization company do for me? What’s the benefit?”

A localization company will help your business communicate with audiences in different cultures authentically and genuinely. Throughout the localization process, the localization agency ensures your message is translated accurately, and your brand is represented as intended in the new language. Top localization agencies pair translators and subject matter experts to transform your content efficiently and effectively.

A localization agency reviews every aspect of your source content. From the actual language to the tone and message, localization experts consider what needs to be conveyed instead of strictly translating words. Cultural appropriateness is evaluated, including using images, colors, and colloquialisms.

Are you hosting a multilingual event? If it is taking place internationally, event dates, time formats, and promotional information should be localized. Learn more about interpreting or multilingual event solutions here.

At Interpro, our localization project teams include project managers, linguists/translators, subject matter experts, and quality assurance reviewers. Each team works together on our clients’ projects and collaborates with the client on appropriate solutions.

Whether you’re ready to work with a localization company now, or are just beginning the research process, these are our best localization tips from our experts to get you started!

Best Localization Tips Used by Top Companies

The 28 localization tips are bolded below and come from our expert language professionals to help you craft unique messages for your audience’s languages and cultures.

Interpro is proud to have a highly qualified network of linguistic professionals worldwide. Because we have been in the translation and localization industry since 1995, we feel safe to say these are some of the best tips used by top localization companies worldwide.

The solutions to these challenges would differ depending on the audience (international, local multilingual, etc.), subject matter, and language. For hands-on solutions to developing your specific content, consider hiring a localization consultant.

Localization Best Practices for Writing Content

The most effective way to prepare your source text for localization is by using clear and concise language. By choosing simple and common words, your localization service provider will be better able to craft a similar example in another language or culture. For example, use “many” instead of “a large number of.”

Unsurprisingly, numbers are easily translated into a new language. Taking the above example, you could use exact numbers instead of ambiguous expressions. Where appropriate, using numbers can provide clear reference points for multicultural audiences. However, there are exceptions such as currency, imperial vs. metric systems, and date formats that may need changed.

Avoiding idioms, slang, jargon, colloquialisms, and contractions is also essential for language inclusion. While interesting within text, these illustrative expressions rarely translate well into other cultures. A real-world client example involves the saying “easy as pie.” Interpro’s French subject matter experts reported that this would not translate clearly. Our team worked with the client to find an appropriate phrase to convey the same message. The result? “Easy as saying hello” conveys the same message for many cultures, including French.

Localization Tips for Design and Layout

Creating visually appealing content that can be localized easily is not as challenging as it may sound! Some tips, like eliminating text embedded in images, are self-explanatory. But other best practices will be easier to illustrate through examples.

When planning your layout, make sure you leave space for text expansion. The layout of the designed document will need to shift and accommodate the new character count as text tends to expand during translation.

It’s also best not to include manual cross-references in your layout, as the content may shift to different pages in various languages.

Other best practices are not using hard or soft returns to break lines of text. Similarly, do not use spaces or tabs to line up paragraphs with a hanging indent. Setting up tabs within your software program will allow for automatic indentations even as the language changes.

What is cultural localization?

Cultural localization is ensuring your content is localized to avoid offending based on the cultural standards common for people who speak the language.

For example:

When including images in your designs, some research may be necessary to avoid offending a multicultural audience. For instance, research your audience’s cultural customs and holidays. If you and your team are not familiar with the holidays, make sure to put in the research to avoid offense.

We have eight more localization tips on avoiding offending your multilingual audience.

Another example of adapting content to a culture is the multiple uses of the color red in China, where red usually symbolizes good luck. You might think that writing someone’s name in red ink would imply prosperous results, but instead, it is offensive. Writing someone’s name in red is usually used for a deceased person.

Even though 20% of the world’s daily communications are in English, body language varies significantly in meaning by language. Ensure you evaluate any images you want to include in your source document to ensure they don’t have unintended meanings.

Take, for example, the “OK” symbol: holding your thumb and pointer finger together with the remaining fingers sticking up. In the United States, this gesture is a sign of approval, agreement, and understanding. Yet, it can be highly offensive in Brazil, especially during an argument. In France, it means “zero” or “worthless.” Even in China, Japan, and Korea—where it can mean money— saying “money” instead of “ok” doesn’t make sense.

Localization Tips and Best Practices for Video

Creating video content with localization in mind is a well-thought-out strategy. Many simple yet important considerations can make a massive difference to your localization company. These include:

• Using subtitles and professional voice-over;
• Ensuring that the script matches the voice-over;
• Maintaining a rate of speech slow enough to accommodate a viewer reading subtitles;
• Limiting text and important visuals appearing in the bottom third of the frame;
• Using off-screen voice-over and/or limiting the use of on-screen speakers; and
• Keeping the number of assets to a minimum

Frequently Asked Questions About Localization

How do you know when localization is working?

The best way to evaluate the effectiveness of a localization project is to ask the target audience.

Direct feedback from your employees or clients that speak the language will illustrate how successfully the intended message was translated. Some businesses will receive feedback from their customer service departments. Others can measure marketing response rates on various channels where campaigns were published or use surveys to get more qualitative information.

Another solution many businesses opt for is to have Company A perform the translation and Company B perform localization proofreading and revision. Interpro offers both and can help assist you and create a localization game plan either way.

What resources are available to consider cultural customs?

When you partner with a translation and localization company, we are your best resource!

Because localization is so granular to the language, dialect, culture, and location of the audience, there is no “one resource”.

Interpro has opted to create a network of individuals who are experts in a single language, and are emmersed in the country speaking the target language. So our resources are real human beings that live the culture and speak the language fluently.

However, our translators and subject matter experts research specific information during each project. Our team always asks clients for reference documents so that they can flag and advise on potential issues. We work with each client to find appropriate solutions for each target audience. An offensive image, for example, might be better changed to a sketch or a diagram.

We’ve found this is the best way to have the most accurate, culturally appropriate translation possible.

Do abbreviations pose any localization concerns?

Abbreviations and English acronyms should remain in English.

During the localization process, we sometimes employ what is called the bilingual format. This technique explains the abbreviation or acronym in parentheses in the target language. In some languages, there are acronym equivalents that can be used. But in general,using a bilingual format is the best approach for most situations.

Are there any best practices for creating survey scales to be localized?

When developing a survey that will be localized, it’s best to incorporate numbered scales. A range of descriptors—like “agree” and “somewhat agree”—can go with the numbers, but they will be extra information rather than the primary content. Remember, numbers are easily translated!

Are there any localization recommendations on translating specific policies, such as employer benefits, manufacturing manuals, or other official documentation?

There are no standard terms or phrases to avoid. Referencing the “ok” example again – one rule doesn’t work for all languages, dialects, and cultures.

But again, in general, we recommend a bilingual format. If you plan for the content to be for audiences that speak multiple languages, some terms will not get translated because they are English terms that have become standards in their industries.

Should you develop a new source presentation for each anticipated localized version?

There is no need to create separate content for each language or culture you would like to reach. Despite the possibility of text expansion or different images, we work from your singular source document—in this case, the presentation. Our linguists and localization experts will review the presentation and make recommendation and improvements. One improvement, for example, can be the consideration of swapping out imagery to be more inclusive to the target audience. Our team will work with you for possible solutions to ensure the localized presentation is as meaningful as possible. For example, splitting a slide into two parts might be an improvement to the slide readability, if the client is open to it. In most cases, there is not a need to edit a source presentation before localization.

What tools do you recommend using to assess for simple or plain language when developing materials for localization?

There are online resources available to check your writing for simplicity. Free resources include the National Archives list of Top 10 Principles for Plain Language and the CDC’s Plain Language Materials and Resources. The many versions of the Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Calculator evaluate the readability of your content—some for free. Other readability calculators and formulas exist, including the Hemingway Editor, based on the simplicity of the author’s works. Some resources available for purchase, such as Readable, can help simplify your writing on the fly.

What are the best practices for the localization of ads?

Translating advertising content is one of the most challenging tasks faced by linguists. Cleverness is great, but creating the same effect in the target language is tricky. This requires balancing maintaining the original content’s core message and creative elements while adapting the cultural and linguistic elements.

When deciding whether to focus on cleverness or clarity in marketing content, consider the target audience first. Certain tones of voice or ways of speaking (i.e., sarcasm) may not translate well. Next, consider your brand’s personality, voice, and values. Finally, define your campaign objectives. Your messaging will be far different whether your goal is to generate brand awareness or convey specific information.

We hope these localization tips helped you on your journey to localizing your content!

Schedule a Free Localization Strategy Session

Investing in a localization agency can help ensure that your carefully crafted message is correctly understood, no matter the language or subject matter. For the most professional, consistent translations, we recommend using a professional translation agency with ISO Certifications, quality analysis processes, and historical proof of delivering consistent, accurate translations.

Interpro has an expert team that delivers accurate translations according to schedule. Our proven expertise in multilingual content for businesses quickly provides accurate translations to reach your goal.

Find solutions to your localization questions. Schedule a Complimentary Localization Strategy Session and get started with an Interpro localization specialist.

The post What is Localization? A Comprehensive Guide to Localization and its Benefits appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Seeking eLearning translation solutions but are unsure where to begin? Have you been tasked with translating eLearning courses for a multilingual audience?

In today’s interconnected world, eLearning has revolutionized how we acquire knowledge and skills. However, to unlock its potential and connect with a diverse audience, eLearning courses must be effectively translated and localized. Throughout the article, we will delve into eLearning localization, highlight its benefits, address common challenges, offer tips for file preparation, outline the components that may require translation, and present diverse translation solutions tailored to different types of eLearning courses.

Topics covered in this article:

• What is eLearning Localization?
• Benefits of eLearning Localization
• Why Invest in eLearning Localization?
• Localizing Common eLearning Platforms
• Challenges of eLearning Localization
• How to Prep eLearning Files for Translation
• Components That May Need to Be Translated for eLearning Courses
• Translation Solutions for Different Types of eLearning Courses

What is eLearning Localization?

eLearning localization is the process of adapting educational courses to meet the linguistic, cultural, and contextual requirements of diverse target audiences. This comprehensive process involves not only translating text but also adapting voiceover narrations, videos, documents, assessments, and user interfaces to ensure they are culturally relevant and appropriate. By localizing eLearning content, organizations can significantly enhance learner engagement, comprehension, and overall learning outcomes, providing a more effective and inclusive educational experience for learners from different cultural backgrounds.

The Benefits of eLearning Localization

eLearning localization benefits organizations aiming to expand their reach and cater to multilingual audiences. We have an introduction to eLearning translation here, but generally speaking:

• Accessibility & Wider Audience Reach Localized eLearning courses are accessible on-demand, allowing learners to study at their own pace in their native language, thus reaching a global audience and accommodating diverse schedules. By making courses accessible in multiple languages, organizations can reach a wider audience and tap into new markets. This fosters inclusivity, enhances engagement during the course, and encourages knowledge retention after completion.
• Increased Learning Retention, Comprehension, and Engagement Learning in one’s native language through localized eLearning enhances information retention, comprehension, and engagement, leading to better completion rates and more consistent learning outcomes across an organization.
• Scalability & Cost Effectiveness Localized eLearning courses are a cost-effective solution for businesses, reducing the need for multiple language instructors and saving employee time, while also being scalable to accommodate any number of learners. eLearning translation opens doors to global markets, empowering organizations to reach new customers and boost their revenue streams.

Why Invest in eLearning Localization?

eLearning localization is not just a luxury. It’s a necessity for organizations aiming to expand their global reach. Localizing eLearning courses allows for effective communication and knowledge transfer and helps employees overcome language and cultural barriers.

Localization ensures that learners can fully engage with the content, understand complex concepts, and apply what they learn in real-world scenarios. By investing in eLearning localization, organizations demonstrate their commitment to providing meaningful and impactful learning experiences to a diverse learner base.

Why is localization a game-changer to successful translations? This article will help you gain some insights into the importance of localization efforts.

Localizing Common eLearning Platforms

Before getting into the details of content localization, it’s essential to be familiar with some popular eLearning platforms widely used for course development. Storyline, Rise, Captivate, and Vyond, offer powerful tools and functionalities for creating engaging and interactive eLearning content. Understanding the capabilities of these platforms will help you better strategize and plan for the translation and localization of courses.

Localization always involves adapting content to meet the linguistic and cultural needs of diverse learners. However, each eLearning platform will have it’s own nuances that your translation company should understand.

For example, translating a course on Moodle involves not only converting written material into the target language but also ensuring that all multimedia elements, such as videos and audio recordings, are culturally appropriate and accurately localized. This might involve recording new voiceovers with native speakers and adjusting visual elements to reflect the cultural context of the target audience.

Additionally, every eLearning platform will have a different user interface, navigation, and interactive elements. It’s important to make the content intuitive and familiar in every langugage, reducing cognitive load, and allowing learners to focus more on the content. By localizing these platforms, organizations can improve learner engagement, comprehension, and satisfaction, ultimately leading to better educational outcomes and a more inclusive learning environment.

Challenges of eLearning Localization

While eLearning localization offers numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges. Understanding these challenges will help you navigate the translation process more effectively:

1. Complicated Translation Process

The eLearning Translation Process can be one of the most complicated, with text, graphics, buttons, menus, supporting PDFs, narrations, voice overs, subtitles, dubbing, captions, assessments, quizzes, games, cultural adaptations… the list goes on and on. Finding experienced and skilled translators and localizers who understand the intricacies of e-learning content is just the beginning of the translation process.

2. Experienced translators and localizers

When translating and localizing an eLearning course, certain aspects might need to be reworked or adapted to suit the target audience. This can be daunting and require effort to overcome any resistance or concerns about starting from scratch.

We often recommend finding a translation agency that is ISO Certified with a proven project management process they can share with you.

3. Managing the sheer size of a project or course

Translating an individual file isn’t impossible. (We should know, we do it all the time.) But eLearning courses can be extensive and complex, requiring careful management of various components such as multimedia files, assessments, interactive elements, and more. A single video can have captions, on-screen text, voiceover, and several other components that may need to be translated. (And eLearning courses usually have multiple videos.) Dealing with the extensive scope of a project or course can be a significant challenge.

4. Preventing leaked content

In the process of eLearning localization, ensuring that confidential or copyrighted content does not get leaked or shared improperly becomes a crucial concern. Safeguarding the integrity and security of the content throughout the localization process is essential.

To address this, organizations should turn to experienced translators and localizers who possess the necessary expertise, safeguards, and cultural knowledge. These professionals ensure accurate and to prevent content leaks and maintain confidentiality.

If you’re worried about sensitive or confidential content, our process is to use an NDA. We also never recommend placing sensitive content into machine translation software such as ChatGPT.

5. Strategic Investment from Leadership

Organizations should view eLearning localization as a strategic investment that yields long-term benefits. However, deciding where to invest – which courses you’ll translate and the languages you’ll translate them into – is not easy.

We recommend starting with gathering data from your audience with a survey. Sometimes this is easier said than done, but working with a language expert can help you determine how to make the most out of your translation investment.

Partnering with the right translation team is crucial in other ways as well. You can consider different types of translation agencies depending on your translation needs. Some agencies offer more affordable machine translation but lack the localization quality that an eLearning translation needs to create successful learners.

Look for professionals who provide detailed quotes, have  references who can speak to the professionals’ ability to deliver projects on time, and possess ISO certifications to guarantee quality and prevent costly errors. Investing in a reliable translation partner ensures a smooth and efficient translation process, saving time and resources.

6. Verification of Translation Quality

One of the challenges in eLearning translation is that it’s often difficult to assess is a project’s quality until the very end of the project. Espeically if you are producing

To mitigate this risk, work with a translation partner who provides a clear plan and regular updates throughout the translation process. This enables stakeholders to monitor the progress and quality of the translation, ensuring that any necessary adjustments are made promptly.

Many companies are opting to translate microlearning as a solution to address these challenges effectively. Microlearning refers to short, bite-sized learning modules focusing on specific and crucial topics. By first translating the most important microlearning content, organizations can assess translation quality and address any issues before tackling larger eLearning courses.

And now, let’s examine the intricacies of the eLearning translation workflow.

How to Prep eLearning Files for Translation

To streamline the translation process, eLearning files need prep work. Here are some best practices to consider:

1. Source Files: Instead of copying and pasting content into a Word document, best practice is to provide complete English source files that your translation team can edit. For an eLearning course, examples could include PowerPoint presentations, Premiere Pro video files, or InDesign files – instead of MP4 and PDF. It isn’t impossible to work with exported file types, but access to the source files allows translators to work more efficiently and maintain consistency across the translated content.

2. Planning and Research: Effective eLearning localization requires careful planning and execution. This includes researching the cultural norms, language usage, and instructional design preferences of the target audience. Understanding the target audience’s learning preferences and incorporating culturally-relevant examples and scenarios will enhance the effectiveness of the localized eLearning course.

Resources to help with research:

• What is Localization? [28 Practical Localization Tips, Examples, & FAQs]
• Translation Glossary vs Translation Style Guide: What’s the difference? Do you need them?
• 8 Tips for Writing with a Multilingual & Cross Cultural Audience in Mind
• How to Choose a Translation Company (Ultimate Guide + 4 Must-Haves)

3. Get an Accurate Quotation: This leads back to #1 (providing source files) but providing the detailed files is a crucial step for an accurate eLearning course translation quote. As we covered previously, they are a financial investment. Providing source files when getting a quote for translation services is essential to receive an accurate quotation from translation service providers. Quoting from output files alone (like MP4 or PDF files) can lead to an increased quote once the source files are received, confusion, delivery delays, and surprise costs.

(And because you’re providing these source files, that’s again why we recommend an NDA.)

Components That May Need to Be Translated for eLearning Courses

eLearning courses consist of various components that may require translation. Each component will undergo Translation, Revision, and Proofreading (TRP) to ensure accurate translations and localization quality. Understanding these components will help you better navigate the localization process. Some common components include:

1. Text: Translating written content, including course scripts, instructional text, reading materials, assessments, and on-screen text.
2. Multimedia Elements: Translating and recording solutions for multimedia elements may include audio narration, voice overs, video subtitles, dubbing, voice acting, and captions in the target languages necessary. Syncing the translated audio with the course content ensures a seamless learning experience.
3. Visual Elements: Visual elements such as images, graphics, charts, diagrams, and icons need to be localized to align with the cultural context of the target audience. This may involve adapting visuals, replacing culturally-specific examples, or modifying user interactions to match the target audience’s preferences.
4. Interactive Elements: Navigational menus, buttons, labels, tool tips, forms, simulations, games, drag-and-drop activities, and clickable diagrams.
5. Videos: If the eLearning course includes videos, translating subtitles or captions is a common approach to make the content accessible to multilingual learners. Alternatively, voiceover translations can be used to provide a localized audio track.
6. Documents: Document translation is usually an easier process, but it’s an important consideration that can be forgotten. Documents such as resource materials, user manuals, FAQs, job aids, work books, privacy policies, terms of use, legal disclaimers, and other supplementary materials should be translated alongside the eLearning course to provide comprehensive learning resources in their native language.
7. Assessments: Quiz questions and answers, feedback and explanations, surveys, test instructions
8. Technical Components: Such as software code and scripts, email confirmations, error messages, and system notifications

But components vary dependent on the eLearning platform – or if you need to translate a custom LMS. Be sure whatever your requirements, choose a translation company that can work with the file types you have.

Translation Solutions for Different Types of eLearning Courses

Different types of eLearning courses require tailored translation solutions to ensure effective localization. Here are some solutions for different types of eLearning courses:

1. Subtitling, Captioning, or Voiceover: This is one of the more traditional video translation solutions. Adding translated subtitles and captions alongside the visuals or providing voiceover recordings in the target language and for videos only. It allow learners to read or hear the content in their preferred language while retaining the original message.
2. Instructor-Led Training (ILT) or Virtual ILT (VILT): Specific to the learning and education industry, this newer newer video solution provides a faster turnaround time than traditional video translation. For instructor-led training or virtual training sessions, record the training in English with Google Meet, Teams, or Zoom. Then translating and localizing the recording can be an efficient, more affordable approach to video transaltion. Remote interpreting services can also provide real-time translation during webinars or virtual meetings.
3. Video Overlay: A video overlay technique can be employed in cases where the course primarily consists of videos, and the eLearning course owner needs the video translation fast and more affordable than traditional translation. It’s very similar to ILT/VILT, except the original video does not have to be a recording of a presentation. The video can be authored on any platform. This involves superimposing a video of an interpreter translating the content over the video itself without translating any of the embedded content in the video.
4. Cloud-Based Platforms with Custom Translation Services: Many popular eLearning platforms, such as YouTube, Rise, Udemy, Coursera, Kajabi, WordPress, and HubSpot, offer built-in translation services. While these platforms often provide automatic translation features, it is important to note that they may not fully address localization needs. While we encourage you to take advantage of these automatic translations if they work for you, we find the best outcome often involved combining custom translation services integrated within these platforms. This is the best way to ensure accurate and culturally appropriate translations.
5. Custom Learning Management Systems (LMS Translation): If your organization uses a custom, home-grown Learning Management System (LMS), our experts are equipped to work directly with your platform. We can tailor translation services to fit the unique structure and functionality of your LMS, ensuring that all content and user interfaces are accurately and effectively localized.

Embracing eLearning localization as a strategic investment allows organizations to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, paving the way for effective knowledge transfer and meaningful learning opportunities on a global scale. By understanding the challenges involved, adequately preparing files, considering essential components for translation, and selecting appropriate translation solutions, organizations can optimize learning outcomes and foster inclusive and impactful learning experiences.

Continue Learning about eLearning Translation and Localization:

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