Website Localisation: Addressing Your Concerns

ILT's Booth at Excel Center Going Global 2024

Following our engaging presence at GG2024, we've carefully considered the thoughtful feedback shared by our visitors. Your questions and concerns raised with regard to Website Localization have sparked important conversations within our team, and today we want to address them directly and transparently. 

  • We already use machine translation - isn't that sufficient?
    Machine translation can be a useful tool for internal documents or getting the gist of a text. However, for customer-facing content, it often lacks the nuance and cultural sensitivity of human translation. This can lead to misinterpretations, awkward phrasing, and even offensive errors, ultimately damaging your brand's credibility. Professional localization ensures accurate, culturally appropriate translations that resonate with your target audience.

  • Our target market is primarily English-speaking. Do we really need localization?
    Even if your primary market is English-speaking, there may be a significant portion of non-native speakers who could better engage with your content in their native language. Localization opens doors to new demographics and markets, giving you a competitive edge and increasing your potential customer base. A pilot project targeting a specific language group can demonstrate the impact of localization on your business.

  • We've tried localization before, and it didn't yield significant results. Why would it be different now?
    Past localization attempts might have fallen short due to various factors like poor execution, inadequate metrics, incomplete implementation, or even unsuitable timing. Modern localization practices, advanced tools, and a carefully planned strategy can address those past challenges and deliver measurable ROI. We can analyse your previous experience and propose a tailored approach that aligns with your specific business goals.

  • Won't maintaining multiple language versions of our content be expensive and resource-intensive?
    While ongoing maintenance is a valid concern, modern localization tools and processes significantly reduce the long-term cost and effort. Translation Memory technology leverages previously translated content, reducing repetitive work and costs. Automated content management systems streamline workflows and minimize manual intervention. By implementing a phased approach and prioritizing key content, you can manage costs effectively.

  • We lack the internal resources to manage localized content. How can we handle the added workload?
    Managing localization doesn't have to burden your internal team. We offer turnkey solutions that require minimal internal resources. Our project management tools and dashboards provide transparency and control, while our dedicated support team assists you at every step. We also offer training and managed services to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

  • How can we ensure high-quality translations across languages we don't speak ourselves?
    We understand the importance of accuracy and cultural sensitivity. Our rigorous quality control process involves professional linguists specializing in specific language pairs and subject areas. We employ multiple rounds of revision, including in-country reviews by native speakers. We also offer third-party verification options and detailed quality reports to guarantee the highest standards.

  • Frequent content updates are crucial for us. Won't localization slow down our process?
    Modern localization solutions are designed to keep pace with your agility. Automated content detection systems identify new content requiring translation in real-time. Continuous localization workflows ensure that translated content is updated promptly. Translation Memory technology leverages existing translations for faster turnaround times and cost savings, enabling you to maintain your speed-to-market advantage.

  • Our website/platform isn't currently equipped for multiple languages. What are our options?
    We can assess your current platform and provide recommendations for multilingual compatibility. This may involve upgrades, plugins, or integration with localization-friendly content management systems. We offer technical consultation and support to ensure a seamless transition. A phased implementation plan can prioritize essential elements and minimize disruption to your existing infrastructure.

manusim

Global market entry strategist specializing in multilingual communications and International Product Management. Background in linguistics, law, and marketing. Former SAP localizator and ECJ lawyer-linguist. Founder of consultancy aiding SMEs in international communication. HubSpot advisor for localization strategies.

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