Website Localization
Website localization is a multi-faceted process that requires careful planning to avoid unnecessary costs and delays. Without proper preparation, it can quickly become time-consuming and expensive. The more groundwork you lay beforehand, the smoother and more efficient the localization process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Website Localization?
Website localization is adapting a website’s content, design, and functionality to meet a target audience’s linguistic, cultural, and technical expectations and needs.
Many companies unfamiliar with localization assume they can simply translate their websites into other languages with a machine translation plugin. But true website localization goes far beyond translating text. A great user experience depends on multiple factors, including date and time formats, input fields, images, colors, layout, fonts, validation, and overall functionality. You risk dissatisfied customers even with a flawless translation if the site isn’t correctly adapted for different regions.
How is Translation Different from Localization?
Website localization goes beyond translation. It involves modifying images, date formats, currency, SEO strategies, and UX elements to ensure a seamless and culturally relevant user experience. Localization also involves complying with regional regulations and optimizing performance for devices and internet speeds.
Why Choose Website Localization?
According to the CSA’s 2006 “Can’t Read, Won’t Buy” report, 65% of people prefer content in their language; if they can’t read what they’re being served, they won’t buy the product or service.
The ability to target more audiences leads to a broader understanding of your business and its offerings. Your business should make a good impression on potential customers, which means meeting them where they feel comfortable and understood.
Improved Engagement
Users who understand the information being fed to them are more likely to engage with content.
Increased Conversions
More engagement means…a higher conversion rate! If you give customers something they can engage with, you’ll attract more interested customers.
Enhance Brand Credibility
A global brand is more credible, which is why a strong international strategy is crucial.
What to Consider When Localizing Your Website
Define the Core Strategies & Goals
Establish clear objectives before beginning the process.
Refine Your Localization Strategy
Start broad, then narrow down your approach.
Set A Budget
Consider cost-saving measures like partial translations for select pages.
Understand Your Audience
Identify visitor demographics and educational background to tailor content.
Decide How To Handle Untranslated Content
Notify users or mark English-only sections.
Plan For Multilingual Customer Support
Provide detailed product/service info to reduce inquiries.
Monitor Site Updates
Assess update frequency to maintain a realistic budget.
Use Unicode
Ensures proper text handling and prevents translation errors.
Separate Code From Text
Makes translations more efficient.
Allow Space For Text Expansion
Translations may require 20-30% more space.
Externalize Styles
Use stylesheets for font and layout adjustments.
Minimize Embedded Text In Images
If necessary, isolate text into layers for easier translation.
Write With Localization In Mind
Keep language simple and avoid culturally specific references.
Use A Style Guide
Maintain consistency in tone and voice across translations.
Optimize SEO For Multiple Languages
Outline keywords to develop an effective strategy.
Create A Glossary
Standardize terminology across all translations.
Verify Toll-Free Numbers
Ensure numbers (e.g., 1-800) are accessible or provide alternatives.
Localize Multimedia
Use voice-overs or translated subtitles for consistency.
Maintain Global Branding
Standardize images, colors, and logos across regions.
Customize Region-Specific Content
Be mindful of culturally sensitive images and messaging.
Comply With Privacy Laws
Ensure data collection practices adhere to regional regulations.
Improve Language Selection Options
Detect users’ language settings and offer an easy selection box.
