Software Localization

The process of adapting software for sale in Japan encompasses the four processes of Internationalization, Localization, Translation and Globalization.

Internationalization is the process of preparing software and supporting text for localization. It is sometimes called localization-enablement, and generally takes place during software development. Internationalization often consists of putting text strings into resource files for translation during a later phase. This preparation makes the translator's job easier and helps prevent accidental changes to the software's source code during the translation process. It also eliminates the need to share sensitive source code with a third party. Internationalization can also include writing documentation in a consistent or simplified style using standardized terminology to make translation easier and more accurate. Failure to spend adequate time on this step increases later localization costs.

Localization is the next step of adapting the internationalized software to the specific Japanese market. This process includes icon validation, UI resizing, double-byte enablement, and changes to character encoding, date and time formats, sorting rules, etc.

Translation is an integral part of the localization process, and often involves the heaviest investment of time and finances. If they exist, resource files with language strings are sent to translators for translation. Once translated, the strings are reintegrated into the software. When a double-byte language such as Japanese is involved, further changes to the software may be needed before the language can be properly displayed in the final software version.

Globalization refers generally to the entire process of Internationalization, Localization, Translation.

Intellingua will guide you through the complexities of this process and create a detailed timeline and project flowchart for each project. We will keep you constantly informed on the status of each step and do our best to explain each component of localization, from online help and documentation translation, software setup and training, use of CAT (Computer Assisted Translation) and MT (Machine Translation) tools, localized version functional testing, identification of RC files (Bitmaps-SHG files, resizing, etc.) through final media generation.

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