Most of the businesses are now trying to expand across
geographical borders and thus, international business demands localization or
simply translation of content into a language spoken by another nation. As we
all know, website is the first face of a company and thus, a clear and simple
understandability of any website is a must. Now, every human being, preferably,
wants to read a content written in his/her native language. Thus, a website written
in the native language of a prospective client is far more beneficial and
‘sales oriented’ than written in a third language. Thus, the need for website
translation. Similarly, a software
localized into users native language is far more ‘user friendly’.
Website localization is not merely document translation. The
source for website localization is normally html / php or any other web format
which must be understood by the translator or a technical expert in an agency
who can then explain the translator. Another very important point in website
translation is that the translation must be done keeping in mind the culture
and common jargons of the target language. This helps the reader ‘relate’ to
the website. Thus, a company offering website translation services
should have on-board technical experts and should employ native translators who
not only know the target language but also understand its culture.
Any software these days is being converted into multiple
languages. Again, here a tech know how is very important as the software code
has many sections that need to be left as they are and some need translation.
Besides the cultural importance (cited above), another important point in
software translation is the attractiveness or ‘catchyness’ of the phrase used
as many a time one or two word UI content needs to be translated. Thus,
offering software localization services involves creativity besides a
technical understanding of software.
In a nutshell, a person using the software or viewing a
website should be able to feel – at – home. If this happens, then the purpose
is served!
