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Translation is not enough: What you need is localization

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While using the eLearning process to train your workforce, proper localization is a very important factor. You must effectively translate every part and also localize it according to the regional context. The course must remain lively and not be made too dry as well. So, translation is not enough. You need to go for eLearning localization.

What is translation?

Translation simply refers to changing the language from the source language to any given language. The words are just changed. The end product need not necessarily convey the same meaning as the original piece.

What is localization?

A linguistic translation is achieved from localization. The piece is translated, and also all other aspects of the language are taken in to account. Slangs, metaphors, ad colloquialisms, are all incorporated in the process. Translators who effectively localize must know each and every part of the language along with the contexts.

Why prefer localization?

Enough knowledge about the local culture and dialects is most important. The linguistics chosen for the eLearning translation must be able to localize the sentences so that the users get the exact meaning of the course.  Just translating the language will not be enough it needs to be put in the correct localized manner to fit in to the context.

The localization Process

Neutralizing the source language is the first step for localization. All cultural slangs and metaphors are all removed in this process. Only the basics of the language remain. After that, this is translated to the required target language. In the neutralizing process, all kinds of phrasing and interesting stories are taken out from the piece. This makes the course too boring and dry. So, it is important to add them after you finish the translation process. It makes the course quite interesting, and keeps the end users hooked on.

Different phrases and expressions are misunderstood when you translate. So, you must look for a local equivalent that conveys the correct message. Puns, exaggerations, and colloquialisms are things that you may not get the exact translation for. In such cases, use a contextual middle ground to effectively pass the message.

There are certain clients who specify the use of some marketing terms to be used in the course content as they are. They must not be altered, and used exactly as given. Proper explanation is a must in such cases. It is necessary to convey the exact meaning to the users. A good translation company must be able to do this effectively. The main idea is to pass the message to the users as effectively as possible.

Turnkey solution

An eLearning translation memory is helpful in making your process faster. Keep a translation memory for all your projects. Efficiency is increased, and costs are reduced. For language translation, use this translation glossary in your project and achieve consistency all throughout your project. You can either create one for your new project, or use an existing one for all the projects you undertake.

2 Responses

  1. for those involved in software localization projects

    To those involved in software localization projects, I wholeheartedly recommend the translation management platform https://poeditor.com/ 

    It is a very good tool for collaborative translation and localization work, with a friendly interface and many features to simplify the translator's job, like Translation Memory, for example.

    Who's not using POEditor is missing out on a valuable resource.

     

  2. Translation Company

    I thinks translation companies are doing good job for providing us such important services. Morningside Translations are always be useful for us. And I need to be improved it. But thanks for this good post, it definitely help me. Thanks.

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