If you intend to take your business internationally, translating your web-based project to various languages is the first step to opening new doors. However, if you’re worried about the cost of hiring a translator and an editor, don’t be! Thanks to these tips on how to use translation to make your web-based project international, you can do it all yourself! Translating your business website may seem like a difficult task, but with these helpful tips, you’ll have no problem making your website available in any language you choose. First… Context for translators What are some of the benefits of using translation?
Be Aware of Cultural Differences
Cultural differences are complex, but if you focus on a few key items, you can avoid costly mistakes. For example, make sure that anything that has to do with legal matters is taken care of by a licensed lawyer in both countries. Even seemingly harmless items such as office supplies may have different shapes or colors depending on where you live and your supplier’s location. Also, be aware of holidays—if you plan to run an online sale during a national holiday in another country, for example, customers may have no idea what your company is doing. Keep these kinds of concerns in mind when deciding whether or not to expand internationally.
Understand the Language
Localization is all about getting your project into a format that works with other languages. Translation is just part of that process—and, in some cases, it’s not even necessary. When you’re creating a site for English speakers, for example, it’s not important that all your content is technically translated; what’s important is that you localize your content so users from other countries can understand how to use your web page. You do have to worry about text when localizing sites aimed at non-English speakers—but if you create something aimed at those people (as opposed to something marketed towards them), then you really should make sure there’s nothing stopping someone from another country from using it.
Study the Culture Section: Hire an Expert Translator
The most important advice is to make sure you have a native speaker who is also up on current slang and colloquialisms. You need a translator that is aware of cultural nuances and able to write for your intended audience. Be prepared with reference materials such as popular magazine articles, books or blogs that show how specific phrases are used in your field or industry. If you’re trying to get into that Japanese market, a translator may not be enough—you may want to hire someone specifically trained in Japanese business culture, too. Always ask translators how they plan on getting everything translated and proofread: sometimes it’s best if they can manage all aspects of translation themselves, but other times it’s best if they outsource some or all of it.
