How translation and localization companies make global impact

Expanding any business to international markets is a huge challenge that requires the assistance of translation and localization companies. Breaking the language barrier is only the first challenge, and understanding cultural differences is the next. When these two tasks are combined, any company aiming to globalize its product or service is on its way to success.

Working with a language services provider can bring your business closer to new markets. You should strongly consider investing in local content because it’s an indispensable step in reaching out to your target community. You can translate your materials to English, but it ultimately limits your chances of connecting to a wider audience. You need to partner with experts who can localize your content. 

Translation versus localization

Most people interchange these two terms and even marketers use them to mean the other. However, their translation and localization have separate meanings. It's crucial to differentiate the two so that you can identify which service gives plenty of benefits to your company.

Translation refers to the process of changing a word or text to a different language. In contrast, localization offers a wider reach since it encompasses visual, cultural, and technological aspects of translation. Simply put, translating from one language to another is just one task included in the localization process. 

In a business sense, translation is a complex method of interpreting content from a source language to the target language. It observes the rules of grammar and syntax of the target language without compromising the quality of the translation.

Localization goes beyond rewriting texts since it involves the adaptation of the message so that the local audience can understand it. Companies often avail themselves of this service for websites, software, games, mobile apps, voice overs, and more. 

For example, if you want to build an office in Mexico and Spain, there are a few things about their lingo to consider. While Spanish is the official language of both countries, there are differences in the meaning and usage of words. It’s comparable to English variations in the US, Canada, and the UK.

Elements of localization

If you want to develop multilingual websites or content, you should rely on translation and localization companies for the task. They will make sure these elements are in place:

• Language and regionalism. Your content should speak directly to your target audience. Therefore, you must use specific phrases or concepts that they understand. It helps your potential customers see that you know how to speak their language.
• Cultural elements. Images, symbols, colors, styles, and more can help you create content that respects cultural differences. 
• Ease of navigation. Some languages are written a certain way or have special characters. You must create pages that fit accordingly to make them more presentable and easier to follow.
• Transactional elements. You need to pattern transactional elements like date and time, measurements, currencies, etc. in the format that the target language uses.
• Contracts and agreements. If you want to do business abroad, you must conform to local regulations to avoid legal violations.

How can translation and localization companies help?

Forward-thinking companies should always take one step ahead of the competition, and that means reaching out to customers first. Translating and localizing product and service guides, websites, content, and more, allow you to do just that. You should include it in preparation for entering a new market, whether it's in a new city, region, or country. 

If you plan to market a global product, it's a must to consider localizing your materials from the start. For instance, if you sell software, localization can help you compete with local products and tools that already exist. You need to translate and localize your content before you offer it to the audience. 

Translation and localization are practical tasks that help you save time, money, and effort. You can prepare your media and content ahead of time to make them easier to localize. This process is called internationalization.

Why should you use them in your business strategy?

Your end users benefit greatly from translated and localized content. This strategy demonstrates how your business prioritizes its culture and local language. It shows them that you want to provide a solution for their problems and needs. The specially localized build for the target audience helps them form a positive impression and interest in your company.

Businesses that want to expand globally cannot skip this step. You should tailor your communication and documentation to include their language and culture. You should include these language services in your product development strategies and business model to maximize your investment in translation.

The Takeaway

If you want your enterprise to grow, you cannot miss out on the wave of opportunities that translation and localization companies can provide. A company with the right competence can help you publish optimized content with market-relevant localization to reach your target audience effectively. Our team are the language experts you need for the job!