In this technologically advanced world, everything is going digital. From connecting friends and family to shopping, all this can be done in just one click. And all credit goes to software and applications. But most of us are unaware of the effort developers make to create software that is perfect and liked by users.
Creating software or an app that is compelling to local audiences is competitively easy, but resonating with global audiences is difficult without the assistance of professional software translation services. Though you know the language and behavior of the local audience, designing your app accordingly is easy. However, things are different with a global audience; they have diverse preferences and demand software that is perfectly aligned with their linguistic and cultural intricacies.
What are Software Translation Services?
They have professional translators with technical expertise and knowledge of target regions’ specialized jargon. Using their talent, these translators make any software usable for the target audience by adapting it according to their priorities.
Translating software is a complex process. It is not like converting textual content from one language to another. Translating software includes tailoring all the elements in software the way your target users like them.
Key Elements in Software That Need Translation
While translating software for diverse audiences or regions, several elements need translation to ensure a seamless and culturally appropriate user experience. These include:
- User interface text
- Error messages and alerts
- Help documentation and FAQs
- Settings and preferences
- System messages and notifications
- Dialogs and pop-ups
- Date, time, and number formats
- User manuals and training materials
- Embedded text in graphics or images
- Legal and compliance notices
- Search keywords and tags
- Marketing and onboarding material
- SEO and social sharing metadata
How Do Translation Services Enhance the Global Usability of Software?
- Improving Clarity and Understanding
The software usually contains technical and complex terminology. Getting their hands on a new product requires users to understand its functionalities. However, it will be difficult for them if the software is available in a different language. Translation breaks down language barriers, improving clarity and understanding by allowing the audience to operate the app in their local language. This way, more users from around the globe easily access your product.
- Reducing Support Requests
Sometimes, users find themselves in a difficult situation while using the software, such as errors or glitches. To fix these, they contact the support team of the company and demand help from them. Tackling multilingual audiences or their complex questions can be daunting. Translation saves you from this by adapting the instructions and error messages. Following the instructions, users can easily self-resolve issues, which saves you support costs.
- Boosting User Engagement
Language is the medium through which users connect with software and find it engaging. But if the software is in a different language, they won’t bother using it. Translation enhances user engagement by allowing global audiences to set up the software the way they like it.
The Role of Localization in Creating Culturally Relevant Experiences
- Adapting Cultural References
The usability of software is highly dependent on cultural references used in its design and content, such as local slang and tone. Software localization services employ certified translators, well aware of the cultural nuance of the target region. They enhance the user experience, ensuring that the software elements are aligned with the audience’s cultural preferences.
- Using Regional Formats and Symbols
Audiences in different regions have diverse formatting, symbols, and styles in software content. As for payment options, localizing the currency symbols is important so that users feel confident with in-app purchases. Moreover, the format also varies with the language type; for example, right-to-left languages such as Arabic, Urdu, and Persian have different styles than languages with left-to-right formats.
- Visual and Functional Adaptation
Make sure that the software is easily accessible for your audience and design it accordingly. Like if your target audience is non-technical and unable to understand complex technical terms, it is crucial to adapt the visuals and functionalities accordingly.
Choosing the Right Software Translation Service
- Specialized Knowledge and Expertise
Software translation is a complex task that not every translator can perform. Therefore, find translation services with specialized knowledge and subject-matter expertise. They will make sure that all key elements of your software are linguistically accurate and culturally appropriate.
- Machine Translation vs. Human Translation
Do not make the mistake of completely relying on machine translation. It is efficient, but only for translating basic and short content. For technical and culturally sensitive content, MT isn’t a reliable option. Always keep professional translators in the loop. They proofread and edit the machine-translated content to make it culturally appropriate and accessible for the users.
Best Practices for Implementing Translation in Software
- Planning Translation from the Start
Translating software is a costly endeavor, especially in multiple languages. The best method to save money is to integrate the language packs from the beginning of the development process.
- Consistency with Glossaries and Style Guides
Though you are translating software into multiple languages, it is very crucial to ensure that the specific terms are consistent. It ensures the accurate delivery of your message across diverse languages.
- Testing Across Languages
Done with translating and localizing the software? Wait, it’s still not ready to launch in the global market. Do not just shoot in the dark. Pick random users from the target regions for the testing of your product to find out its chances of success in the global market. Use their feedback to improve the quality of the software and enhance usability for users worldwide.
