Software Localization and Translation

The following are the 5 reasons why product localization falters.

1. Improper or incomplete internationalization of the software
   Your software localization services provider should have the basic internationalization knowledge to identify if you followed the correct practices.
   
   
2. Lack of process
   Every company should establish a software localization process that permits easy file processing and translation reuse. A collection of project reference materials - style guides, translation databases, glossaries for each language in your target market - is also essential.
   
   
3. Crippling budgets
   Professional language translation services and software localization are costly, and will require a financial commitment, first for the initial effort and then to maintain on an ongoing basis. Before setting the budgets for localization, try to estimate what would be the cost of a failed attempt.
   
   
4. Crippling schedules
   Give software localization projects the time they deserve, even if that comes at the expense of time-to-market. A short delay in a successful product release should always be favored over a timely release of a potentially failed product.
   
   
5. Inexperienced staff
   Your software localization services provider should provide experienced translators armed with an excellent command of the source and target languages as well as a good knowledge of your product's subject area. They should also complement them with competent layout and engineering staff and delegate authority to a capable project manager who's tasked with delivering results on time, on budget, and within pre-established quality standards.

Avoiding these mistakes will increase your success rate by orders of magnitude. 

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