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Localization is the process of adapting and fine-tuning various aspects of your
product or service to the exact needs of a specific target audience. It should be
thought of as an investment, not an expense. A2Z Global can help you develop and
implement a localization plan to ensure that your investment pays off.
More explicitly, software localization is the conversion of the User Interface
(UI) and supporting materials of a product from its original language, to fit the
language and cultural nuances of a target locale. It is much more than the simple
translation of the written elements of a software package or a product.
Localization of software was once thought to be something that came after the
long and tedious process of design and development, after all the bugs were painstakingly
removed. Now, most companies realize that it is far cheaper and easier to integrate
localization into the earliest planning stages of a product.
Localization can be a complex process, however, one requiring a mix of technical,
linguistic, quality assurance and managerial skills that few companies can afford
to develop and keep in-house. Today, even the largest software companies choose
to outsource this specialized service.
"Overflow capacity in unstable demand environments for nonstandard products
and services has universally been effective and beneficial where there is a long
term contractual outsourcing relationship between the creator and the supporter."
A2Z Global teams have localized software for many corporations throughout the world
utilizing experts for:
- Project planning and management
- Cultural and linguistic adaptation
- On-line help and documentation translation
We have invested heavily in all the major hardware platforms and operating systems,
including DOS, Windows 95/98/2000/XP, Windows NT, Unix and Macintosh. Computer-aided
translation tools (our own as well as standard industry tools) are used to reduce
costs, insure uniformity and minimize time-to-market. Most projects will involve
three major areas:
- The user interface
- On-line help and CBT
- User documentation
All of these require the development of appropriate glossaries, translation, proofreading
and editing, resizing and reformatting, compiling, graphic editing and the replacement
of screen captures. Linguistic and functionality tests are implemented, as well
as tests to assure compliance with appropriate quality and technology standards.
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