LANGUAGES

What is Localisation?


This is the photo of the European flag.

Localisation is a Translation and an Adaptation.

Translation

Many companies define Localisation as a Translation process. When you use a CD-ROM, it was probably developed in the USA and translated in your language. This works well for computer sofware.

Adaptation

For educational software, Localisation is a content Adaptation, not a Translation. It has to be country-specific:
  • National Curriculums
  • Learning and Teaching styles
  • Language and culture (flags, foods, songs, etc.)

Limits

You can�t always localise educational content. For example, you can�t translate language activities such as rhyming. You have to create new content. In-country specialists review the products. They advise on the best practices.

Internationalisation

Internationalisation happens when the same content is used across countries. This works for non-specific content like manuals and helps. To be cost-effective, companies use Translation Memory Tools and develop flexible localisation tools.
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Last updated July 2002
© 2002 by Nathalie Peret
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