Key Localisation Testing Processes for Websites and Software

Key Localisation Testing Processes for Websites and Software

As you might already know, localisation is the process of adapting a product, document, brand, or service to a new market.  This market can typically be described as being culturally different from the brand’s original market, with varying linguistic requirements.

To cut a long story, localisation is what you do when you want to sell your products and services to markets outside of your national or domestic markets. To penetrate such a market, you will need to translate and transcreate your content. This involves making necessary changes to your software applications and websites as well.

But, how do you know if your website or software application is up to par with local requirements? Well, that’s where localisation testing comes in. Bear in mind the cultural and linguistic rules of the target market. Localisation testing helps you determine whether or not certain aspects of your software or website conform to these rules.

The Process

The localisation testing process is determined according to the outcomes of globalisation testing. The outcome of the globalisation test can verify the functional support offered to the target market. Localisation testing is strictly carried out on the localised version of the website or application.

The testing primarily focuses on the areas that are affected by language, culture, region, UI, and content. Other than that, the localisation testing process also covers functionality, setup and upgrade tests, which are carried out in a localised environment.

Then, you also have critical business scenario tests, hardware compatibility tests, and application compatibility tests. These tests are carried out with respect to the target market.

The localisation test for linguistics and UI usually covers:

• Linguistic accusation verification
• Resource attributes verification
• Application/site resources validation,
• Typographical errors
• Usability of UI,
• System/input/display environment standards adherence confirmation
• Cultural appropriateness of messages
• Consistency checking for messages/online help/printed documentation, etc.

Politically sensitive content is deleted, and other basic parameters, such as spelling rules, date formats, video content, language, accent, sorting rules, and address formats are also checked.

The Benefits

Carrying out localisation testing helps businesses identify defects at an earlier point in time. By doing so, this can protect them from future failure or crisis. Other than that, it helps them deliver an optimized product/service right away – one that offers a unique and top-notch user experience.

The first impression is always the best one, and website localization and localisation testing ensures that businesses make the first impression. Once a business manages to impress a new market, it’s smooth sailing from that point in time. Eventually, opportunities to spread across other locations will start to show up.

Choosing the Right Interpreter

Choosing the Right Interpreter

Localization doesn’t always end with translation. Sometimes, you require some real-time communication, which creates the need for an interpreter. But, how do you know if the interpreter you’re choosing is worth the money you’re going to spend on them?

Well, we have a few tips to help you out.

Consider Their Qualifications

A Language Services Provider can be “judged” based on how good or bad its linguists are.  The same principle applies to interpreters. So, you need to look for someone with a perfect grasp of the language. Also, they need to be aware of and in agreement with the interpretation of the code of ethics.

Another factor to focus on is the interpreter’s area of expertise. There are interprets who specialize in various fields such as health care, medicine, and law, etc. if you need someone who can specifically speak for your industry, then an interpreter who’s worked in your area before would be a good option. In other words, it is better to choose a subject matter expert.

Also, make sure your interpreter also possesses the necessary “soft skills,” such as the ability to listen and adhere to cultural expectations.

Reputation

Reputation, at least as far as professions go, can give you a good idea of how good or bad someone is at their job. An interpreter or interpreting service that has a good reputation is obviously doing something right.

In order to check for reputation, you can request your chosen interpreter to provide a reference. You can try asking these references about the interpreter’s work and whether or not they were satisfied.

Do They Use Technology?

Technological solutions aimed at the translation and interpretation industry have developed significantly in the last few years. For instance, we have VRI or Video Remote Interpreting, which is a technology aimed specifically at interpreters.

The technology overcomes the challenges that plague in-person interpretations. For instance, the interpreter isn’t always required to be present at a particular location to help out. With VRI, interpreters can help translate at any time and from anywhere.

Other than that, you also have over-the-phone options.

The key goal is to look for an interpreter or interpretation services that offers all three options – VRI, over-the-phone, and in-person interpretation. That way, you can opt for any of the three or even all three based on your need.

Choosing an interpreter is no different from choosing a translator. The rules are still the same. You need someone with expertise, knowledge, and technological know-how to help you out. So, make sure your chosen interpreter ticks all those boxes.

By

 Elite Asia Marketing Team

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September 24, 2018