Localizing software is a complicated process. Complexities even get tougher when the deadline is tight and there is a small budget. Achieving development and localization goals can be a struggle. It is imperative that the right plan is chosen and that there is proper execution of the plan. This helps to achieve localization plans quite timely. The software localization process is extensive and hence gets challenging to achieve. Also, it is a technical process. Starting from translation and localizing each and every step demands great concentration. Many experienced translators and localization experts also have to navigate through the challenges of software localization due to the technicalities and complexities this process comes with.
Doing the research and going through the process vigilantly is imperative to achieve optimum results of professional software localization services. The process can get ambiguous if not handled properly. Therefore, software developers should ensure that they only hire experts and experienced teams for this task to avoid mistakes and technical glitches. They also need to sit with their localization teams to make sure that they understand the basics of the process. This way they can keep an eye on and supervise the whole procedure in a better way taking part where needed. The localization experts can also make mistakes due to the complex nature of the task.
Here are the important mistakes that localization experts often make and businesses as well as the team of translators and localization experts should sit down to work on them to avoid these mistakes.
Localizing in bits and pieces
While dealing with software localization, it is significant to localize all aspects of the software product, including every part of it. This may include a user interface, text, cultural elements, and images. Localizing only a few parts of software for the sake of saving some bucks or saving time can be a serious mistake. People might find your software clumsy and not relatable. Many developers make this mistake but they need to understand that localizing a few chunks or localizing in bits and pieces is of no good.
Excessive use of machine translation
Machine translation is undoubtedly a valuable tool these days and is contributing greatly to accurate translation. However, when it comes to software and app localization, it can’t get the context right. It still needs more time to produce accurate translations and has to struggle to deal with software or apps, particularly for Android app localization services. The software and all translations have a lot of programming language to deal with which can only be interpreted by human translators. Therefore, while localizing the software, it is extremely vital to use only human translators. However, many businesses fall for machine translation, and committing this mistake often leads to ineffective localization.
Overlooking the need for regular updates
Whether it is about software or Android app localization services, all these apps and software demand regular updates and maintenance. These applications are likely to have certain bugs and glitches. Fixing these issues in the regular updates makes it evident that the software runs properly. Many software developers often lose track after localizing and launching apps and software which makes all the efforts go down the drain. Software and applications demand regular updates and should be checked accordingly. Businesses should ensure that they don’t commit this mistake and that their software is up-to-date and accurate for users.
Ignoring target market preferences
You, as a software developer, can resonate with the needs of your target market rightly when you involve people from your target audience in your process. Professional software localization services help you strike the right chord with intended audiences. However, many businesses and app owners find it unnecessary to involve people from intended audiences. This is a serious mistake. Involving people from the target region allows you to get feedback and their suggestions can help you improve for the better. Moreover, it can also contribute to localizing the software in a way that is most favorable to the target users.
Not working with a qualified localization service provider
While working on a technical process, such as dealing with an OS such as Android app localization services, it is extremely crucial to work with a team that knows their craft and understands the process fully. Many developers make this mistake and they often assign this task to their in-house employees or to external acquaintances. This is not the right approach. Not working with a qualified localization service provider can be risky as well as useless. All the inexperienced and immature efforts turn futile and eventually, developers have to hire experienced people. Hence, opting for a qualified and skilled team can be greatly beneficial for one and all.
Not testing localized software
After completing professional software localization services testing its basic version is extremely crucial. Testing it helps to understand the system and get through it swiftly. However, many businesses and localization experts often commit the mistake of not testing the localized software which causes unexpected problems. Checking the software to ensure it is easily understandable and good to use is a fundamental step. This also allows you to scan it for any errors or technical issues. Therefore, the software developers, along with their localization team, should make sure they don’t fall for this error.
Conclusion
Software and app localization is a technical and challenging process. It is imperative that only a professional team handle the localization. Not considering experienced and expert resources can be risky. Many translators and developers end up making certain mistakes and these are a few of them.