A key element of software localisation is making sure your UX and content are translated so they fit the market where the software will be used. It goes a little further than just translating the words in your software; often you’ll experience demands from a regional legislative perspective which have an impact on your content.
Most developers would recommend taking language and multi-language requirements into account from the very start of a project, so you can adapt it to new markets with minimal effort.
- From the outset, ensure your master copy is straightforward and consistent. The easier it is to read and understand, the easier it will be to translate.
- Think about the space your content occupies on the screen. Beyond readability, some languages will need more space when they’re translated.
- Make sure your software uses a character encoding that works for multiple languages and that your font includes relevant extra characters for other languages. UTF-8 for example.
- Don’t forget about dates, numbers and currencies.
- Keep an updated database of terms that a translator can refer to.
- If possible, use a professional agency with translators skilled in your business area. And always test the product before going live.
