Focus - Software and Hardware

Software Localization

One of our backbones - localizing software, hardware, user guides, help systems, and more.

Localization is a complex process ranging from preparing the source code to be localizable to testing the final product and all its components. The key to successful localization is to make the product appear as if it was created in the language and the locale of the user without compromising the functionality.

When a new product is created or an existing one is updated it is good practice to decide if the product will be made for other markets as well. Making sure that the product is ready for Localization (L10n) and Internationalization (I18n) is essential for the success of the product.

Unlike with many other projects, localization should not happen after the product is final and has been released to one market. The localization process can - and should - be integrated into the development. Some advantages of this approach include:

  • Testing of source and localized versions can happen simultaneously;
  • Testing localized versions can reveal functional or usability issues that would otherwise remain undetected and that would cause problems when using a non-localized product in foreign markets.
  • Product can be released simultaneously into multiple markets.
  • Customers can purchase a product that is made for their specific market.

This approach can save substantial amounts of time and money.

Read about BeatBabel's approach to Software Localization.