Since Interpro’s founding, we have incorporated state-of-the-art translation technology and localization engineers to provide our clients with the most effective all-around solutions that fit their budget and delivery times, without compromising the quality of the final deliverables. Whether it involves updating Translation Memory, utilizing the latest Neural Machine Translation (NMT) engine, or deploying a Large Language Model (LLM) generative AI, this means we help you solve your technical issues in your translation, localization, and interpreting projects.

Our Commitment to Continuous Technology Improvement: When you choose to partner with Interpro, we always stay on the cutting edge of the newest translation technology – so you don’t have to.

Advanced Translation Technology

Interpro’s specialists, methodology, and technology are built to support translating from any application, file type, or platform.

Interpro’s track record working with many different authoring programs, development tools, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Content Management Systems (CMS), programming languages, and other platforms for word processing, graphic design, audio and video production ensures consistently successful outcomes for our clients.

In addition to our team’s experience, Interpro’s processes and people create optimal language solutions you need with every project.

Supporting Any File Type, Platform, Application, or Format

From commercial platforms to proprietary tools you’ve created, our turnkey methodology allows the Interpro team to work with any file type you provide on any operating system like Windows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS, Android and IBM i OS.

Don’t see your File Type, Platform, Application, or Format listed?

Connect with an expert at Interpro! Chance are our team can help create you a solution.

The post Interpro’s Supported Applications and File Types appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Whatever your target languages or regional dialects, Interpro’s professional linguists can provide accurate, consistent translation, localization and interpreting for your audiences. Our expert foreign language translation services are available for virtually every modern language, with localization for specific vernaculars. We also provide translation services from any of these languages into English.

Subject Matter Experts In Every Language

We hand select our linguists from around the world based on our high standards for subject matter experts. Translators are always native speakers of the target language, residing in the culture where the language is spoken.

Translation and Localization for Your Language and Dialect

Some of the languages we work with are shown below, but we can provide expert services in many more. If you need translation or interpreting for a language that isn’t listed, just give us a call.

The post Interpro’s Supported Languages appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Serving multilingual audiences with accurate and culturally appropriate translation is not only the right thing to do, it’s also good for business. At Interpro, we want to provide you with answers about high-quality translation services because we pride ourselves on quality and professionalism. That includes providing translations that are certified in adherence to International Standards Organization (ISO) standards for Quality Management and Translation Services. As an ISO-certified translation company and an accredited member of The Association of Translation Companies (ATC), our teams follow rigorous steps to guarantee the accuracy and quality of our translations, and the attentiveness of our customer service.

Topics covered in this article:

• What is a certified translation?
• What is considered a certified translation?
• Why would I need a certified translation?
• What are more specific use cases for certified translations?
• What does a certified translator do?
• What is the difference between certified translation and official translation?
• What is the difference between a certified translation and a notarized translation?
• How do I know if my translation service is certified?
• What are the rules for certified translation?
• What are the most important considerations when hiring a certified translation company?
• What other attributes do certified translation companies possess?
• What are some of the risks of using a non-certified translation service?

What is a certified translation?

We cover the basics of “What is a Certified Translation?” but to summarize:

A certified translation is one that has been done by a professional translator who is certified by a recognized translation organization or agency, and is accompanied by a signed statement from the translation agency affirming that the translation is a true and accurate representation of the original source language content.

According to the American Translators Association, anyone in the United States can produce a translation. The individual translator can certify their translations, as can an employee of a translation company if they seek certification from a regulating governing body like the ATC. A translator may also certify someone else’s translation as long as they have reviewed it for accuracy and completeness, and it will not be changed after being certified.

What is considered a certified translation?

A certified translation is a translation of a document that is accompanied by a signed statement attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the translation. This statement is typically provided by a professional translator or a translation agency. The statement affirms that the translation is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge and ability.

Why would I need a certified translation?

Certified translations are often required for official purposes, including legal documents, academic transcripts, immigration forms, and business contracts. In these instances, accuracy and authenticity are paramount. The certification provides assurance that the translation accurately represents the original document.

What are more specific use cases for certified translations?

Certified translations help to avoid misunderstandings or legal complications. A few specific examples follow.

• Legal Documents. Contracts, court orders, affidavits, and patents may need to be translated for legal proceedings or submission to government agencies, or documents that ensure that all parties involved can rely on the accuracy of the translated documents.
• Immigration Purposes. When applying for visas, residency, or citizenship in a country where the official language is different from your native language, you may need to provide proof of accuracy for any translated personal documents, such as birth certificates and marriage certificates.
• Academic Transcripts. If you are applying to educational institutions abroad or seeking recognition of your academic qualifications in another country, you may need certified translations of academic transcripts, diplomas, and other educational documents.
• Business Documents. Companies often require proof of accuracy of business contracts, financial statements, patents, and other corporate documents for international transactions, partnerships, or regulatory compliance.
• Medical Records. In situations where you are seeking medical treatment or insurance coverage in another country, medical records may be necessary.
• Official Government Forms. When filling out official government forms in a language other than your own, you may need proof that translated supporting documents are accurate such as identification cards, tax records, and employment letters may be required.

What does a certified translator do?

A certified translator has been authorized or recognized by a relevant institution or organization to provide translations that are certified. A certified translator translates written content from one language to another while maintaining the accuracy, clarity, and integrity of the original text. They accomplish this by adhering to translation and other industry standards. Another responsibility may be reviewing translated documents to certify them. The certified translator may be a specialist in a certain field, such as law, medicine, finance, or technology. They are responsible for engaging in continuing education to maintain relevant skills. Overall, certified translators play a crucial role in facilitating communication across language barriers.

What is the difference between a certified translation and an official translation?

Official translation usually means the translation needs to be completed by a registered professional translator or professional translation company. When an official translation is required, the translator will write their credentials on the translation and stamp it. A translation that is certified is a step up from official translation. It is also carried out by professional translators, but the translation is then certified. This means the translations are bound together in a pack and stamped just like an official translation but with the addition of a certification letter. This letter contains the details of the translator or translation company, their professional credentials, and a statement of certification.

What is the difference between a certified translation and a notarized translation?

Some end users of certified translations may request or require that “the translation be notarized.” This is actually a misnomer as the translation cannot be notarized. A notary public only legally acknowledges the identity of the individual signing the certification statement. While the terminology is inaccurate, it is helpful to know that this is commonly used by end users and clients.

How do I know if my translation service is certified?

To determine if a translation service is certified, you can consider the following steps.

• Check their credentials and accreditation;
• Read customer reviews and testimonials; and
• Evaluate industry experience by vetting their reputation and specialization.

By following these steps and conducting due diligence, you can determine whether a translation service is certified and capable of providing high-quality, accurate translations.

What are the rules for certified translation?

The rules can vary depending on the country, industry, and specific requirements of the document being translated. However, some general principles and guidelines apply to ensure that translations meet established standards of accuracy, authenticity, and reliability.

• Accuracy. Certified translators must ensure that the translated text accurately reflects the content of the original document. This includes conveying the meaning, tone, and intent of the original text while adhering to the grammatical rules and conventions of the target language.
• Completeness. Documents should include all the information contained in the original document without omitting or altering any content. Translators must translate all text, including headings, footnotes, signatures, and any other relevant information.
• Authentication. In some cases, the translation may require additional authentication to validate the certification statement. This can involve having the translator’s signature notarized by a licensed notary public.
• Quality Assurance. A translation service often has processes in place to review and verify the accuracy and quality of the translations before certification. This may include proofreading, editing, and review by a second translator to ensure consistency and accuracy.

What are the most important considerations when hiring a certified translation company?

Several important considerations can help you choose the right service provider for your needs. Some of the most critical factors to consider include certification and accreditation, expertise and specialization, best-in-class quality assurance processes, turnaround time and flexibility, customer reviews and testimonials, transparent pricing and fees, and customer support and communication skills.

What other attributes do certified translation companies possess?

Certified translation company requirements vary by country, industry, and certification body. Some of the considerations may involve:

• a specified number of years of experience
• an audit on financial stability
• quality management processes
• client references
• supplier references
• appropriate professional indemnity insurance

What are some of the risks of using a non-certified translation service?

Not all translations are created equal, and not every Language Service Provider is a certified translation company.

Using a non-certified service can pose several business risks. These include inaccuracy, legal validity implications, loss of credibility, confidentiality breaches, missed deadlines, lack of accountability or recourse, limited expertise, and poor communication or responsiveness.

If your goal is to receive high-quality translations, we recommend these steps:

1. Understand the basics of choosing a translation company with ISO certifications for translation and quality management. A translation certification demonstrates the company has a reliable translation process. But the quality management certification ensures the company is aiming to continually improve and exceed your expectations every time.
2. Know the difference between localization vs. translation. It makes a difference, and not every translation company is localizing your content for your specific audience’s needs.
3. If you’re ready to start translating, schedule a complimentary localization consultation with our team. When it comes to translation services, each project is a little different. To create the best possible experience, Interpro provides certified translations for a range of services available in any modern language and customizes the translation process to be efficient for you.

Be confident in your translations and contact us with any additional questions about professional, accurate translation services.

Other blogs about translation and localization:

The post The Ultimate Guide to Certified Translation FAQs appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

More and more companies are expanding their global reach and their workforces are becoming more diverse. The need for authentic cultural competency is now a highly coveted organizational value. And this means that the translation of materials in multiple languages is often a business necessity. But not just any translation will do. You need a high-quality, certified translation to ensure professionalism and accuracy.

Topics covered in this article:

• What is a certified translation?
• What counts as a certified translation?
• What are the benefits of certification?
• What are the types of certified translations?
  • Individual Certified Translators
  • Certified Translation Companies
  • Industry-Specific Certified Translations
• Ensuring Quality Translations

What is a Certified Translation?

A certified translation is one that has been done by a professional translator who is certified by a recognized translation organization or agency. This type of translation is accompanied by a signed statement from the translation agency, affirming that the translation is a true and accurate representation of the original source language content.

Certified translations are often required for official or legal purposes. Translated immigration applications, academic transcripts, and legal contracts may need to be certified. The certification signifies that the translation is reliable and accurate. Different countries and institutions may have specific requirements for certified translations. It’s important to check with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance.

What Counts as a Certified Translation?

To be considered a certified translation, the document must include the signed statement. Additionally, the translated document may include a stamp or seal from the translator or the translation agency.

What Are the Benefits of Certification?

Bad translations are bad for business. Many of us have been there: one missing accent mark or incorrect word can make the difference between clarity and a cultural misstep. It could be an irreparable mistake in terms of reputation and trust — or even the law.

Certified translations ensure accuracy, reliability, and integrity. They are completed by experienced translators who have a deep understanding of both the source and target languages. Additional benefits include acceptance by regulatory bodies, legal compliance, as well as continual professionalism.

What are the Types of Certified Translations?

Certified translations can come from a certified translator or a certified translation company.

Individual Certified Translators

In this instance, the translator is certified. This typically involves certification from a recognized translation association, such as the American Translators Association.

Certified Translation Companies

A translation company can also be certified. For example, as an Accredited Member of ATC, Interpro provides translations that are certified with ATC’s Certification Stamp. Being an Accredited ATC Member demonstrates that Interpro has passed the ATC’s strict membership vetting process, including audits on financial stability, quality management processes, client and supplier references, and also carries appropriate professional indemnity insurance.

Industry-Specific Certified Translations

In many cases, specific compliance requirements for translations are mandated by industries themselves. Such industries may include educational institutions, governmental bodies, manufacturing, health and medical fields, or legal agencies, for example. Professionals in these industries should work with compliance experts to establish and promote translation standards. They can then work with a certified translation agency employing subject-matter experts in their particular industry.

Ensuring  Quality Translations

If you need certified translations, you probably want the peace of mind that comes with a certified translation stamp. But the ultimate goal is a high-quality translation that your audience will understand and connect with.

Interpro offers world-class translation and interpreting services in any modern language that helps organizations with multilingual audiences. We ensure your business is well-positioned to handle a range of crucial and sensitive translation needs. We are a certified translation company through the Association of Translation Companies (ATC).

To ensure quality translations, we recommend these steps:

1. Learn more about common certified translation FAQs.
2. Understand localization vs. translation. It makes a difference, and not every translation company is localizing your content for your specific audience’s needs.
3. Find a translation company with ISO certifications for translation and quality management. A translation certification demonstrates the company has a reliable translation process. But the quality management certification ensures the company is aiming to continually improve and exceed your expectations every time.
4. If you’re ready to start translating, schedule a complimentary localization consultation with our team. We’ll create a game plan with you to ensure you receive high-quality, localized, certified translations.

As you research different translation options, consider the peace of mind that comes with working with an established, quality-oriented company like Interpro. A company with a quality focus and partnership-oriented approach will benefit your business through improved client relationships and translation success.

The post What is a Certified Translation? Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

Having your website available in multiple languages is more important now than ever before. While English-language speakers still make up the largest share of users on the internet, that percentage is shrinking. The language that once captured nearly 80% of content on the web has now shrunk to just over 25% of users. Translating JSON content allows businesses to connect with the other 75% of their potential audiences.

A website is much more than what you see when you type in the web address. Behind every website are pages of codes that describe everything from the layout to the format to the content on the screen. While your average website visitor may not be able to see it, a lot is going on behind the scenes. JSON is one of many data interchange formats that help to bring a website to life.

In this article, we’ll break down what JSON files are, why JSON translation is beneficial, and why it makes sense to partner with an experienced, professional translation company to get the job done right the first time.

What is a JSON file?

JSON stands for JavaScript Object Notation, and is one of the most popular data-interchange formats being used today. It is a syntax for storing and exchanging information between systems over the internet, most commonly between a server and a web application, using attribute-value pairs.

Here’s another way of looking at JSON, in simpler terms.

Say your friend wants an object that you have. Mailing the item itself would be one way to achieve your goal, but that could take a while. Alternatively, you could describe that item’s attributes, which would allow your friend to recreate the same object without actually receiving it. This is how data are transmitted via JSON.

Though it was originally derived from JavaScript, JSON is actually a language-independent data format, meaning that virtually all modern programming languages support the structure in one way or another.

JSON works well for several reasons:

• Unlike other types of formats, JSON is both easily human and machine-readable.
• JSON has support for Unicode, which allows information, regardless of human language, to be transferred and displayed properly. Some formats don’t support non-Latin-based characters.
• JSON feeds can be loaded asynchronously much easier than XML or RSS.
• The syntax and parsing requirements are strict, which allows it to remain efficient, simple, and consistent.

What is JSON used for?

JSON has many applications, but one of the largest is its role in content management systems.

Content management systems (CMS) allow people to edit text, photos, and other files on websites – all without the need to possess extensive technical knowledge. In fact, more than half of all websites are built using a CMS. The user can construct their desired website using a user-friendly, intuitive interface, while the CMS applications handle coding, database queries, and back-end infrastructure. Frequently, content management systems use JSON to store and organize site content.

The JSON translation process

JSON translation involves translating the data contained in the JSON files from one natural language to another, thus making a website accessible to a wider audience. The process is similar to XML file translation.

JSON translation isn’t as simple as exporting a file and translating the text word for word. This is because JSON files contain two types of information: contextual data and structural data. Structural data should not be translated, as doing so can result in a non-functional website. It takes a skilled eye to differentiate between the two types of data and, for that reason, it is advisable that experienced professionals handle JSON translation.

Finding the right localization partner is key.

As with any type of translation project, the success in JSON translation is directly dependent on who your localization partner is. Your translation company should have skilled linguists providing accurate translations working in tandem with in-house localization engineering expertise.

If your website is consumer-facing, accurate translation builds confidence and legitimacy in your brand. Similarly, websites that are built for internal use also benefit from clear and correct translations. Employees will be able to fully understand the website’s content and navigation, boosting inclusivity, efficiency, and minimizing frustration levels.

Effective engineering

The second key to ensuring a successful JSON translation project is coordination with an experienced engineer. An in-house expert will make sure that there are no structural changes to the file that could negatively impact a website’s integrity by erroneously modifying code. Localization engineers prepare files in a way so that only translatable text is made accessible to linguists.

Together, these two elements make for an effective turnkey solution resulting in fully translated, import-ready JSON deliverables.  The process should also include quality assurance ensuring nothing “breaks” post-delivery. Once translated files are delivered, they should be ready for immediate use.

Multilingual websites expand your global reach. Exponentially.

JSON translation may be just one component in your website’s overall translation and localization strategy. By making your website accessible to other languages, your website has increased potential to:

• Reach a wider audience and attract new customers. By offering your website in another language, you will open up your site to visitors who may not speak English, or who are more comfortable viewing websites in their native language.
• Demonstrate that you are putting your audience first. Whether you are targeting customers, association members, or employees, providing your audience with information in their native language is a great way to show that you care.
• Gain relevance in other search engines. Homegrown search engines are emerging in other countries to meet the needs and habits of their populations. Providing your website in different languages is key to tapping into these markets.

Conclusion

JSON is a commonly used data-interchange format. Thanks to its straightforward, easily readable style, it has become one of the most preferred ways to store and organize website content. JSON translation is an important element to successful website translations; which makes your website accessible across language boundaries. For an accurately translated and functional multilingual website, it always makes good business sense to partner with an experienced translation company that can provide linguistic proficiency coupled with in-house engineering expertise.

The post JSON Translation: What It Is and How It Can Help Your Business appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

There are two equally critical components involved in software localization: the linguistic component and the technology component. Professional software localization addresses both aspects in order to ensure that the final deliverable is a product that developers are anxious to share with their target audiences around the world.

Software Localization: what’s important to know

Software localization is not merely a sophisticated synonym for software translation. Rather, software localization addresses both: 1) natural language translation as well as 2) localization of the complete User eXperience (UX). It results in a product that enables a user to work in his/her native language, along with local cultural references region-specific functionality.

Software localization is not a trivial task. Working with a company that offers a turnkey solution – such as Interpro – will streamline the process. Your organization may not be familiar with all the nuances involved, so let’s discuss five must-know factors that will have you feeling confident about the software localization process.

1. Expertise offers flexibility

Professional software localization companies grow their expertise over the years. That knowledge and skill-set extend into the technology. In today’s digital age, it is vital to have a thorough understanding of current programming languages and the platforms they run on. By cultivating this knowledge, professional teams are able to provide their clients with software localization services for an extensive range of programming languages and file types, functioning on a multitude of operating system environments. That means that your software can be web-based, desktop, mainframe/mid-range, or mobile.

Additionally, localization professionals know that the terminology deployed in the user interface (UI), Online Help system, and online and printed support materials must all be consistent in order for the application to be used effectively. After an in-depth review of the literals comprising the UI, a glossary is created based on key terminology. This glossary offers continuity across all product components, crucial in avoiding confusion or even user error due to inconsistencies.

2. Context truly is king

We are often told that content is king. No matter how regal the content is, without context, translating words in a vacuum can result in a meaningless concept, or even worse – just flat out wrong translation. Without supporting context, the translation may even prove to be offensive to the user.

Lack of context is often the result of the limited amount of space available for literals on a UI screen or panel and makes for one of the supreme challenges inherent in software localization. Indeed, it is not uncommon for literals to consist of one or a few letters. “OT”, for example, can be either “Overtime” or “On Time”, depending on the context. When context is lacking, so may be the translation. Software localization professionals are accustomed to working with this kind of limitation and can utilize their experience to handle this problem.

3. One size does not fit all

Working with a company having a software localization practice, such as Interpro, offers another key benefit. Decades of experience combined with our personalized approach to providing a better localization experience, we can adjust our approach to fit any client situation. Whatever the development methodology your organization has adopted, be it waterfall, agile, or something in between, we can accommodate you.

Being able to adapt has numerous benefits. When software updates are released to global markets, we keep up to match your pace and your delivery requirements. We understand cycles and sprints, and boast a skilled localization organization to optimize the process workflow. This flexible environment along with our Client-First emphasis allow you to stay on track with your business goals and objectives.

4. Quality Assurance is key

Your software application is a global product. Rather than delivering components on a piecemeal basis, you need to ensure that your product launches are in sync with your business plan. That means that you need to deliver quality, and you need to deliver it fast. Professional software localization delivers on both fronts.

Quality Assurance (QA) is essential. Although each phase of the software localization process (e.g. glossary development, translation, editing, proofreading) has built-in quality controls, a final assessment of the localized product gives us an opportunity to uncover and address any remaining issues that may have somehow slipped through the cracks.

What are we looking for when we QA a localized software UI? Some of these areas include verifying that:

• each literal and system message have been translated accurately and consistently,
• the length of on-screen content has not been exceeded, and
• graphical images, color choices, symbols and layout are culturally appropriate.

Overall, the quality assurance phase in a software localization process ensures that the final product reflects the look and feel of the source language application, while being adapted for the target locale.

5. Validate functionality

Software validation is without a doubt the most important component in the software localization process, especially for a first-time localization project. What good is a perfect translation if the functionality of the localized product does not mirror that of the source application? As part of the localization process, software validation ensures that, in the target language application, application functionality is identical to the source language functionality.

During software validation, a software localization specialist who is a native speaker of the target language tests product functionality using a client-provided test script and test data. Results are shared with the software developer, and any anomalies are isolated, resolved, and retested until fixed.

The benefits of a well-executed validation should be considered as when a bug or an inconsistency is detected, it is addressed and resolved before product launch, saving time and money, and most importantly, preventing damage to your brand.

Software Localization ROI

Your organization has most likely spent significant resources developing, marketing, and supporting your software application. Localizing your product, when done correctly, allows you to increase revenue, market share, and user satisfaction by providing a product that is relevant in multiple geographies.

The post Software Localization: 5 Points to Consider for Your Next Project appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

While each project can be a bit different, the following 5 tips for a successful internal localization review can be applied almost universally.

1. Plan early on

While this may seem like basic knowledge, clients frequently tell us about the headaches involved in managing internal review workflows within their translation process. The problems often occurred when an IR process was introduced too late in the game. Planning early on to include rounds of linguistic internal review in the translation process is crucial. During the quotation stage or at the project kickoff stage at the very latest, your localization partner should inquire as to whether or not an internal linguistic review of translated content will be taking place. This is particularly important for projects that include a voice-over recording component. A project will normally be on hold while the client is performing an internal linguistic review of the script before recording in the studio.

2. Consider Glossary Development

Glossary Development should be considered as one of the first steps in a localization workflow. The Glossary Development process allows Interpro to establish an English and corresponding target-language equivalent of the most frequently-occurring terms in your content, to then be reviewed and approved by your internal reviewers. This is done prior to starting the content translation phase of the project. Having an approved glossary upfront will minimize the total internal review time since the terminology will already have been approved. It serves as a foundation to ensure consistency of preferential translations for key terms across all of your translated materials.

3. Assign one reviewer per language

This step is very important, as too many cooks spoil the pot. Even if multiple linguistic reviewers are available and want to be involved, designate one person to have the final say. There can be multiple ways to translate the same concept – all of them correct, but someone has to have the final word to maintain consistency. Ensure that there is one master reviewer responsible for each language’s terms for the entire project. If for some reason they are not  available, ensure that whoever is reviewing content is made aware of the previously-approved  glossary, and not to stray away from approved terms and preferences.

4. Agree on a timeline

A timeline must be planned upfront and agreed upon. This means working closely with your  localization partner to make sure that everyone is on the same page, and that you know when you can expect to receive translations for review. You can then communicate this information to your internal review resources to alert them as to when they can plan their review. At Interpro, we typically deliver the translated content in a dual column source/target format, accompanied by helpful instructions concerning how changes should be made. It would also be helpful to give yourself some buffer when dealing with your internal reviewers, as some languages may take longer to review than others. The internal review process should be seen as a subset of the larger project, and must be managed as such. 

5. Embrace this as an effective part of the workflow

In conclusion, embrace the internal review process as a part of your overall localization workflow, and not as a burden. Reviewers/volunteers are usually doing this outside of their normal responsibilities, oftentimes after hours. It should truly be seen as a team effort which benefits your entire organization, not as an afterthought.

The post Internal Localization Review: Tips for a Seamless Process appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

The main features of XML include:

• Ideal for handling data with a complex structure or atypical data
• Allows for the description of data using mark up language
• Allows for the interchange of data between systems by using a text-based format
• Human-friendly and computer-friendly format
• Handles data in a tree structure having one-and only one-root element
• Excellent for long-term data storage and data reusability

XML’s roots actually go all the way back to the 1970s, as it was developed to be a lighter version of the Standard Generalized Markup Language (SGML).  Now, many years later, XML has itself spawned associated technologies such as Extensible Stylesheet Language (XSL), Document Type Definition (DTD), XML Schema Definition (XSD), XPath, and XQuery, to name a few.  Today, XML is commonly used to exchange data over the Internet.

As a markup language, novices may at first confuse XML with HTML, but the resemblance ends at the markup syntax.  HTML has strictly defined tags, whereas XML is extensible, and the tags are user-defined.  This extensibility is the source of XML’s power: the familiar syntax allows the files to be read by virtually any computer system, while the definition of the tags conveys the needed data to the program which requires it. Since it is plain text, XML can be read by humans, although it is not typically intended to be without its Stylesheet.

XML files are natively encoded as UTF-8, so they support any character set that can be entered electronically. This makes the XML format ideal for natural language translation, as many non Latin-based characters are not supported in traditional ASCII encoding. In fact, XML is often used in software localization by placing User Interface (UI) strings in a resx file, or in a “strings.xml” file.  These techniques allow a program to support multilingual UI without having to recompile the source code, and additional languages can be added at any time by simply adding a new string file in another language.

Although XML is an ideal file format for translation, not all translators can work with XML files.  Structural data inside the tags must remain untouched, as must some elements and attributes.  When translating XML files, it is imperative that translators process only translatable content. Some translation tools come with ready-made filters which define what needs to be translated and what needs to remain intact. Additionally, tools will allow for customization of filters as needed.

The following is a brief example of English (source) extracted from an XML file, followed by the same content having been translated into Russian, German, and Simplified Chinese:

English

Russian

German

Simplified Chinese

Using XML to exchange information has become universally popular, and XML translation is the process by which the information contained within XML files is converted into any world language, regardless of character set. Interpro is experienced and knowledgeable with XML formats, and provides turnkey XML translation services that ensure XML content will be correctly localized and fully functional.

The post The Versatility of XML in XML Translation appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.

To help expand your business into foreign markets, we’ve put together a list of five steps you need to know.

1. Research International Markets

There is no doubt about it, you have to do homework before selling in international markets– learn about your new potential customers, what types of products they will buy, and what their buying behavior is like. You can gather some information by checking your current customer database to see if there are already some international buyers in the mix. If you do, gather market research in the areas where they live since you already have success in that region. There are also many tools available to help you with research. Try the following sites to get started:

• Export.gov
• U.S. Small Business Administration

2. Handle Legal Needs

Once you’ve established the foreign locales to sell in, obtain the appropriate documentation to do business in those countries. You may have to obtain a business license for the specific countries or other documentation to be compliant legally. Again, this will require some research. Different countries have different requirements. Export.gov has some good information about legal considerations when selling internationally.

3. Develop a Fulfillment Strategy

Next, come up with an order fulfillment plan. Fulfilling international orders is different than doing so domestically. You may want to consider using suppliers that are located in the countries where you sell to simplify the process. This will cut down on shipping time, which is a big deal for online shoppers. Alibaba is one of the largest online suppliers and they partner with importers and exporters in 200 countries. TradeKey, Kompass and Global Sources are good sources for directories of global suppliers.

Additionally, as part of the fulfillment process, find shipping providers that are local to the areas where you sell. Researching local shipping providers will help determine what is best for both you and your customers.

4. Set Competitive Pricing

Pricing for online stores is always a challenge. You have to be competitive but also make a profit. It’s no different when selling internationally, but it requires knowledge of what pricing is like in the countries where you plan to sell.

The main consideration is knowing how people value their money in the areas you plan to sell products. For example, spending $50 for an online purchase in the U.S. may be normal, but for a buyer in India, $50 may be a bigger portion of the buyer’s income so they may not be able to afford it.

The key to successful international pricing is adjusting your prices in different markets to stay competitive locally. This might mean certain products can be sold in certain areas because it just isn’t profitable.

5. Market Products for Local Audiences

Marketing for international sales also has to be localized. You may be selling in areas where you must reach buyers who don’t speak English. Even though you may have various detailed photos of products in your listings, many non-English speaking consumers will not buy products from sites they cannot read. That means you need to provide foreign customers with websites and marketing that are in their native languages. Companies like Interpro Translation Solutions can help you with multilingual marketing.

Final Thoughts on International eCommerce Expansion

Even though selling online internationally can be challenging, it’s a business decision that is worth making. There are endless opportunities and being successful isn’t as hard as you may think. Following the above steps, doing research, and coming up with solid strategies for marketing and fulfillment, will help your global expansion.

The post Going Global? 5 Easy Steps to Expand Your Online Business Internationally appeared first on Interpro Translation Solutions.