Software localisation is the overall translation of a piece of software. This piece of software that is being translated can be anything from a smart phone application to a specific computer program. The translation that is done on the software usually involves the process of converting it totally from one language into another kind of language overall.
Software of the variety types mentioned here do usually have little hidden sections of code or text that is visible. In different software localisation projects, is only usually involves only the translation of the text parts and that is it. Any and all of the definitions that go along with localisation are what is applied to the area of software localisation too.
Software localisation is something that goes way beyond just mere translation of software. It is something that provides a big solution for companies or individuals who desire to do away with cultural barriers in order to make themselves and their products known to a bigger target audience as a rule. This process helps the software to adapt very well to suit every aspect that does exist within a specific target type of market. Some of these aspects do include language, specific culture that is defined, and also any technical requirements that must be met in addition.
This form of translation is very different from traditional translation in a number of ways. Some of these ways do include the fact that any form of traditional translation is something that is carried out after the document source has been carried out and is finalized. Software translation indicates not only the translation but also the adaptation of the software or a web item that does include the software itself and any form of product documentation that does go along with the software too.
Any software projects for localisation themselves is usually carried out while the product itself is still being developed. This is because it allows the process to be able to ship out the source product in various languages before the product is even released on the market.
Any software products that have been given the localized treatment properly should be a product that has a certain look and feel about it that was created especially for a specific target market. It is a complex process that does take time and does not happen overnight or easily. Therefore, each step must be followed to the letter, and adaptation to local cultures must be successful in the end.
