Localization, although quite advanced in European nations and USA, is still in nascent stages in the Asian countries. Sometimes, our clients ask us to tell the difference between localization and translation, other times they want us to make a comment on how the cultural differences in the world have affected the localization industry. We have been asked the very pertinent questions about ROI (Return on investments) and of course, sometimes we must part with our wisdom on the future of the industry. Since the questions are so many, we have decided to answer them in our blogs. That way we share with our clients and industry experts and learn a thing or two in the process, about the exciting world of Localization.
Localization is the fusion of language and technology that gives birth to a new product which is adaptable across linguistic and cultural barriers.
It all started or rather was a natural outcome of the waves that the evolution of the computer industry generated way back in the 60’s.
As the Industry giants like the Sun Microsystems, Microsoft Corp and others started crossing international boundaries to become more of global players with their hardware and software ammunition,it became very essential over time that their products appeal to the consumers, that is the local population.
Albeit English is an International language, there are vast geographical areas where only the local language dominates all walks of life.How many amongst us though being fluent in english prefer the contentment of reading/writing in our own mother tongues?
Translation of product collateral either print or online into the native or local language took great strides and also gradually overcame the “feels and looks foreign” syndrome. Companies started getting wider acceptance and could establish their presence more easily.
Localization has come a long way today and is an integral part of most companies’ annual spend.It has a huge return on investment for them too. It is globally a 16 billion + dollar industry with the best of talent viz Native translators,Content writers, Single Language Vendors, Multiple Language Vendors involved across time zones.
Stay tuned for more or catch up with us on Our Website
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
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