Also known as internationalization, localization can be regarded as a process employed to adapt the company’s software to the various linguistic, technical and regional requirements of a particular target market. The companies achieve this by incorporating certain components into their software that allows it to perform locale-specific functions in order to expand the business’s reach among the target audiences.
As a process, localization is pretty large scale and involves the contribution of an entire set of individuals and departments including testers, developers, the marketing team, the product team, localization project managers, and so on. In essence, the localization process focuses on enhancing the profitability of the company and generating additional revenues by reaching out far and wide. Since localization typically aligns a product or service to the general requirements of a particular region or culture, it is known to generate better results across domestic markets.
Who are the localization engineers?
Touted as one of the most crucial designations in the localization industry, localization engineers are required to perform a wide range of roles and take up varied responsibilities. A localization engineer is majorly the first point of contact for the clients to submit their requests and clarify any doubts regarding the process and what it really takes to adapt a product or service to a specific market. Apart from guiding the client on the best tools for localizing their app after reviewing their request in detail, the engineers are also involved with configuring and creating translation tools. The engineers are essentially a part of a larger network of individuals known as the localization team that comprises a program manager, a few localization engineers, and several localizers.
What the localization team must discuss
There are a few major aspects of localization that the localization team must discuss in detail for an effective result. Have a look:
Cautious Planning
Planning ahead for the entire localization process is critical in ensuring that there is minimal wastage of effort and time, and that any possible pitfalls can be taken care of in the initial stages of the project only. The teams must design a realistic framework of steps to be followed, gather the resources and consult localization experts to create a product or service that can be immediately introduced in the target market.
Realistic Budgeting
Any process is profitable only if a practical budget has been allocated that takes care of all the resource requirements adequately. Apart from engaging with your localization partner, the teams must discuss the allocation needs for the project well in advance. The budget must not only take care of the current engagements but also cater to any updates or modifications that might need to be incorporated in the future.
Effective Scheduling
As with any other process, it is important to properly define the different tasks and responsibilities of the various individuals or departments and create a schedule complete with deadlines and submission dates. Scheduling is essential to ensure that the process is streamlined and the workflows smoothly from one stage to another. Also, the schedule must be designed flexibly to accommodate the changing requirements of the various localization stages.
Healthy communication
It has often been found that the creative departments such as those including copywriters or product designers generally do not second the prospect of localization. However, it is absolutely essential to keep your content owners within the loop so as to make the best use of their in-depth knowledge and understanding of the product design. Also, communication with all related departments and teams is critical to a smooth workflow and an environment conducive to progress and growth.
