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localization

By Robert Sheldon

What is localization?

Localization is the process of adapting and customizing a product to meet the needs of a specific market, as identified by its language, culture, expectations, local standards and legal requirements. Localization can apply to any type of merchandise or service that targets multiple audiences with different cultural backgrounds. The term localization is often represented as l10n, where 10 is the number of letters between the word's opening L and closing N.

Localization and translation are sometimes confused or treated as one and the same. However, localization transcends simply translating text into the local language. When localizing a product, an organization must address a wide range of issues to ensure the product is properly prepared for its target market, even if it's accompanied by an internationally recognizable brand.

A localized product should appear to have been developed specifically for the local culture. It should account for the many subtleties that distinguish one culture from another. To this end, the localization process must consider several factors:

Besides all the factors already mentioned, organizations must consider iterations such as time zones, national holidays, gender roles, geographic references, and how names and branding will translate to the target language and culture.

GILT: globalization, internationalization, localization, translation

Localization is frequently part of a larger globalization effort encompassing internationalization and translation. Globalization, internationalization, localization and translation, commonly referred to as GILT, together provide a structure for efficiently getting a product to a wider market.

Internationalization and localization are two distinct concepts, just like localization and translation.

The figure below shows the four GILT components and how they're related within a hierarchy under the globalization umbrella.

While the figure shows only two products, a globalization effort can include many products. What's important is how the four GILT elements fit together and the specific role each plays in delivering a product:

Each process is often represented by a numeronym, a type of abbreviation that includes one or more numbers. The numeronym includes the first letter, last letter and the number of letters in between. For example, globalization is often represented as g11n, where 11 is the number of letters between the word's opening G and its closing N.

Explore a developer guide to software localization. Learn how companies are rethinking global supply chains to avoid disruption and reap the benefits of globalization.

19 Dec 2023

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