The Localization Process

Preparation and assessment

The next step is to analyze the text in the source files by scope, type, language combination, and specific subject. Translators are selected at this stage.

The preparation phase paves the way for localization and determines which technical tools will be necessary. We are always happy to listen to your individual project specifications. To help us meet your needs as efficiently as possible, please provide us with the following information:

• Any existing foreign documents, previous translations, and/or translation memory files, that we can use as reference material to ensure consistent use of terminology.
• Images, diagrams, drawings, and other materials are often helpful to our understanding of the broader context behind the text to be translated.
• Having all specifications and guidelines relating to the individual project or product on hand during localization can help us ensure that even extremely sophisticated technical information is translated accurately.
• Access authorization, usernames and passwords, as well as any instructions needed for use of the technical systems you wish to utilize to transfer your files.

Alignment with a translation memory system

Thanks to our many years of translation experience, we have access to a wide range of terminology that we can use for comparison purposes where needed.

The tools we use include translation memory systems, which greatly simplify the terminology comparison and translation processes.

Vocabulary and terminology are saved following the initial translation process and then form the basis of new translations. This not only enhances translation quality, but also ensures consistency of terminology within the text itself. This can also help speed up the entire translation process. Yet another advantage is the creation of an expanded database that can be used for other translations for the same customer. We can also incorporate an established translation memory into our system.

Localization

During this stage, our translators begin the localization and translation processes, transferring the text into the target foreign language. Use of reference material provided for terminology and any terminology lists that the customer may have supplied forms an essential cornerstone of this step in the process. Our translators typically have a minimum of three to five years of experience in translating texts into another language and often specialize in a particular field of expertise.

Quality assurance

Quality assurance is an important part of the localization process. During this stage, we check whether the user interface, online help, and documentation have been localized and/or translated as necessary. In some cases, it may still be necessary to resize menus and buttons for certain software solutions and websites. This is also discussed and agreed with the customer beforehand.

Upon request, files can also be checked for consistency and functionality by a second linguist. The second linguist checks that the content has been translated accurately into the target language, proofreads the text for any grammar or spelling errors, and checks for consistent use of terminology.

Delivery

Translated documents can be delivered in hard copy, by FTP , and/or on CD-ROM, or we can e-mail data directly to your inbox. We also keep a backup copy on file so that we have the data at our fingertips anytime you need it in the future.

Customer satisfaction

Customer feedback is critical to our quality control process. We view project assessments as a vital way to determine how well we perform in project management and how you view the quality of our services.