Translation and localization often feel interchangeable; however these two terms have two distinct meanings, applications and purposes.
Despite their differences, translation and localization do share some important similarities, as they:
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Aim to communicate. They both look to facilitate communication between different cultures and languages. Both translation and localization make sure that the message is well understood and appreciated by the target audience.
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Require language skills. Translators and localizers alike must have a deep grasp of the languages they work with. We’re not talking only vocabulary and grammar, but also -and almost equally important- understanding cultural nuances that surely will affect how the message is received.
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Prioritise accuracy. Precision is key in both processes. An error in a translated or localized product can lead to misunderstanding or misinterpreting the original message, which can even have significant consequences (specially in business or legal contexts).
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Adjust to the target audience. Both approaches need to adapt to the target users. This means that translators and localizers alike ought to consider who’s the audience and how they relate to the content.
Translation
Translation is the process of converting text from one language to another. The main goal here is to keep the original meaning of the content and to ensure that the message is transmitted accurately. This classic approach is common when translating general documents, books or articles, to name a few.
Being specially focused on language and grammar, translation is critical in contexts such as:
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Literature – to make a literary work available in different cultures, but making sure no content, meaning or intention is lost.
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Technical manuals and data sheets – it’s imperative to translate these as faithfully and precisely as possible.
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Web content – translation allows posts, products and general information to be available for users from around the globe (however, the user interface would need to be localized).
Localization
Localization, on the other hand, goes well beyond the simple translation process. It aims to adapt a product or content to a specific market so that it resonates with a specific audience, all while keeping in mind not only the language, but also the cultural, social, legal and technical differences.
When localizing a project, the translator normally deals with cultural adjustments (maybe modifying cultural references, images or examples not appropriate for the new target audience), formatting changes (formats in dates, currency and measurement units will need to be adapted) and specific regulations (the content needs to comply with all local laws and regulations).
Localization is specially important in projects as the following:
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Apps & software – it’s essential to maintain them intuitive and easy to use in different regions.
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Video games – same as other software environments, video games require localization.
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Marketing – advertising campaigns don’t need to be faithful, but effective. Localizing them allows us to keep them relevant in different markets.
So, despite being different processes, both translation and localization are essential in a more and more globalised world. Differences and similarities aside, understanding the importance of leveraging a translation/localization process for their products and contents is critical for organisations, businesses and content creators who are looking to expand their reach and connect with diverse audiences.