Trends for E-Learning Translation Services in 2023

In recent years, the field of e-learning has witnessed remarkable growth, and this trend is set to continue in the years to come. According to Facts & Factors, the global eLearning market size was worth around USD 210.1 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to around USD 848.12 billion by 2030 with an approximate CAGR of 17.54%. As education and training become increasingly globalized, the demand for effective translation services in e-learning has become more crucial than ever. 1. More Brands Reaching Global Audiences through eLearning Translation and Localization Services One of the primary trends we are witnessing in the eLearning translation services sector is that more brands are actively trying to engage global audiences through their platforms. With the rise of online education and the accessibility of e-learning platforms, brands recognize the opportunity to expand their reach beyond borders. 2. Focus on Localization and Adaptation In 2023, eLearning translation companies will focus on adapting content beyond simple translations. This involves considering factors such as images, symbols, videos, and interactive elements to ensure the eLearning content aligns with local cultures, educational systems, and languages. 3. Multimedia Localization: Adapting Videos, Audio, and Interactive Content eLearning content now incorporates multimedia elements such as videos, audio recordings, and animations. Localization services will adapt both visual and audio content to match the target language and cultural context, improving learner engagement and comprehension. 4. Mobile Learning and Mobile Translation With the increasing use of smartphones, mobile learning (m-learning) is gaining momentum. Localization services will cater to mobile eLearning apps, ensuring the content and user interface are linguistically and culturally appropriate for various regions. 5. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Translation AI-driven translation tools and machine translation algorithms are advancing rapidly. In 2023, AI and MT will be integrated into the eLearning translation process to streamline translation tasks, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. However, human expertise will still be crucial for capturing language nuances. 6. Quality Assurance and Testing of eLearning Localization Ensuring the quality of translated content is vital for successful learning outcomes. In 2023, companies will use comprehensive testing and quality assurance processes to maintain high standards in localized content and verify accuracy. 7. Distance Learning Courses Translated Right Distance learning is increasingly popular. eLearning translation services will be critical in adapting distance eLearning courses to diverse languages and cultures, fostering inclusivity and ensuring equal educational opportunities for learners worldwide. What Are the Challenges of eLearning Content Translation? Maintaining linguistic accuracy while adapting eLearning content to different cultures is challenging. Multimedia elements like animations and simulations also require careful localization. Agile translation workflows are needed to keep up with the rapidly changing eLearning content landscape. eLearning Localization and Quality Control To overcome translation challenges, ensuring rigorous quality control is essential for effective eLearning localization. This includes ensuring content is accurate, culturally appropriate, and optimized for various learning platforms. What Types of eLearning Translation Services Are Available? eLearning translation services encompass a variety of solutions, including the translation of course materials, localization of user interfaces, multimedia content adaptation, voiceovers, dubbing services, and testing. What Types of eLearning Content Does Lingual Consultancy (LC) Translate? Lingual Consultancy (LC) offers customized eLearning translation and localization solutions, including course materials, assessments, multimedia elements, voice-overs, user interfaces, and much more. How Much Does eLearning Translation Cost? The cost of eLearning translation services depends on several factors such as content volume, language pairings, and subject matter complexity. It’s best to consult with our team to get accurate cost estimates. Conclusion As eLearning continues to grow globally, the demand for translation and localization services will soar in 2023. Embracing advanced translation technologies and services will help bridge cultural gaps and make education accessible worldwide. Brands that invest in localization are likely to gain a competitive edge in the years to come.

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Video Game Localization: Tailoring Games to Local Markets

Video Game Localization: Tailoring Games to Local Markets

In the world of video games, reaching a global audience is a key objective for developers and publishers. With millions of players spanning across different regions and cultures, it is crucial to ensure that games are accessible and enjoyable for players worldwide. This is where video game localization comes into play. In this article, we will explore the importance of video game localization and the strategies involved in tailoring games to different locations/regions. The Popularity of Video Games Around the World Video games have become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences across the world. With advancements in technology, the accessibility of gaming platforms, and the rise of online gaming communities, the popularity of video games has transcended cultural and geographical boundaries. From blockbuster franchises to indie gems, video games have a universal appeal, attracting players of all ages and backgrounds. The global video game industry is steadily rising, with no signs of slowing down. One of the key factors contributing to the popularity of video games is their immersive nature. A video game offers interactive experiences that engage players mentally, emotionally, and socially. Whether it’s exploring vast virtual worlds, solving puzzles, or competing against others online, video games provide a level of engagement, immersion, and escapism that is unmatched by other forms of media. Why Is Video Game Localization Important? Video game localization is of high importance for game developers and publishers seeking to tap into international markets. Let’s explore why video game localization is crucial for success in the global gaming industry. 1. Overcoming Language Barriers Even if many global players speak English, not all players are fluent, and language barriers can hinder the gaming experience. By translating in-game dialogue, texts, menus, and instructions into local languages, developers can ensure players can fully comprehend and enjoy the game. 2. Expanding Your Audience By localizing your game, you cater to players from different regions, making the game more accessible and appealing. It allows developers to expand their audience base and build stronger connections with players from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the game’s global success. 3. Opening New Revenue Streams Localization helps developers reach new markets, attracting more players and increasing revenue opportunities. By adapting a game to specific regions, developers can tap into previously untapped player bases, thus boosting the game’s commercial success and lifespan. How to Localize Your Game The localization process involves several key steps that developers need to follow to ensure a smooth and successful transition of the game for global markets. 1. Planning Your Game Localization Project Begin by conducting market research to identify target regions and evaluate cultural expectations. Assess the game’s content, decide which elements require localization, and determine how much translation and cultural adaptation are necessary. A solid plan will ensure smooth execution during the localization process. 2. Adapting to Cultural Expectations Ensure that cultural differences are respected and incorporated into the game. Modify names, settings, cultural references, and symbols to align with the target culture. This increases player engagement by creating an authentic and relatable experience for players in each region. 3. Translating Localized Assets Translating in-game texts, dialogues, and other elements requires hiring professional translators experienced in video game localization. Maintaining consistency in terminology and ensuring contextually accurate translations is essential for a successful localized game. 4. Testing the Localized Game Assemble all the localized assets and conduct thorough testing. This involves checking for linguistic accuracy, audio synchronization, and gameplay functionality to ensure that everything works seamlessly in the new language and cultural context. Best Practices for Quality Game Localization To ensure high-quality localization, developers should follow the best practices outlined below. 1. Collaboration Work closely with translators, cultural experts, and local players to achieve the most accurate and culturally relevant translations. Providing the team with sufficient context and resources will guarantee that the game resonates well with local audiences. 2. Localization-Friendly Design and Code Design your game in a way that allows easy integration of localized text and assets. Avoid hard-coding text and use external files to store content, which makes localization updates easier and more efficient during the game development process. 3. Language Quality Assurance (LQA) Conduct Language Quality Assurance (LQA) testing to ensure the translated game content maintains accuracy, consistency, and integrity. It’s advisable to have local players and translators play-test the game to identify potential issues before release. Conclusion As the gaming industry continues to expand globally, effective localization will play a key role in creating immersive and engaging experiences for players from all cultures and regions. Game developers must prioritize localization to ensure their games are enjoyed by as many players as possible. If you’re seeking professional game localization services, Lingual Consultancy is here to help. We work with passionate gaming professionals who specialize in video game translation to ensure your games are accurately localized for any region.

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How to Find the Best Website Translation Services for Your Needs

How to Find the Best Website Translation Services for Your Needs

In today’s globalized world, having a multilingual website is crucial for reaching a broader audience and expanding your business internationally. With over 73% of customers preferring to purchase a product or service from a site in their native language, website translation services have become essential for businesses aiming to increase their global reach. To find the right website translation company for your needs, consider the factors outlined below. Introduction to Website Translation Website translation for businesses has become a necessity for companies looking to compete in global markets. When you translate your website, you make it accessible to an entirely new audience. Effective translation ensures that your website content is accurately converted to meet the linguistic and cultural expectations of your target audience. Choosing the best translation service provider is key to achieving this. Why Website Translation is Crucial for Your Business Website translation services help you communicate directly with customers in their native language, making it easier for them to understand your products and services. People are more likely to make purchases from a site that speaks their language. By ensuring accurate and culturally appropriate translation, businesses can see a boost in user engagement and conversion rates. The Importance of Professional Translation Services While machine translations such as Google Translate might seem like a quick solution, they often miss key cultural nuances. This is where professional translation services come in, ensuring that all content is not only translated but also localized for the target audience. Localization involves adapting content to reflect local language, culture, and customs, which helps to preserve the message and tone of the original content. Translating a Website — Key Benefits When you decide to invest in website translation services, the benefits go far beyond simply speaking to your audience in their language. Translating your website can help you build trust, reach new markets, and enhance user satisfaction, all of which can lead to higher revenue and customer loyalty. Reaching International Markets and Clients By hiring the right website translation company, you can ensure that your website is ready to serve customers across different countries and regions. Whether you’re expanding into Europe, Asia, or Latin America, professional translation services will help you communicate more effectively with your international clients, ultimately growing your customer base and boosting sales. Enhancing User Experience with Professional Translation When your website content is translated professionally, it ensures that the user experience is seamless. Website localization services don’t just translate text—they adapt the entire site to meet the cultural and social expectations of the audience. This makes your website feel more familiar and inviting, leading to increased engagement and longer visits. What to Consider When You Search for the Best Online Translation Services Finding the best website translation services can be overwhelming. There are many factors to consider to ensure that the translation provider you choose meets your needs. Below are the most important aspects to look for when evaluating potential service providers. 1. Expertise and Experience When searching for professional translation services, look for providers who specialize in website localization services. This ensures that they not only translate the text but also understand the cultural context of your target audience. Experienced translation companies will have a portfolio of successfully localized websites, showcasing their capability to handle different languages and markets. 2. Range of Services A high-quality website translation company will offer more than just language translation. They should provide a full suite of services, such as SEO website translation services, video translation, and multilingual desktop publishing (DTP). These services ensure that your website is not only translated accurately but also optimized for search engines in each language, helping you maintain visibility on a global scale. 3. Ensure the Translation Company Has Rigorous Quality Assurance To maintain the highest standards, ensure the website translation company you select has a strict quality assurance process. Look for a provider that uses proofreaders and editors, as well as industry-standard certifications like ISO 9001, to guarantee error-free translations that align with your brand’s voice. 4. Technology and Tools Modern website translation services should utilize translation management systems (TMS) and computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools. These technologies help streamline the translation process, ensure consistency across multiple languages, and maintain high quality across large-scale projects. 5. Confidentiality and Security Website translation often involves sensitive content, such as customer data and business strategies. Confidentiality and security are paramount, so choose a translation provider that ensures secure file transfers and adheres to data protection regulations like GDPR to protect your business and customers. 6. Customer Support Responsive customer support is crucial when working with a website translation company. A provider with multilingual support will be able to address your concerns and needs promptly, ensuring the project proceeds smoothly and on time. 7. Client Reviews and Testimonials Before choosing a professional translation service, read client reviews and testimonials. Look for feedback from businesses in your industry to ensure the provider has a proven track record of delivering high-quality translations on time. These testimonials offer insight into the provider’s reliability and customer service. 8. Pricing and Turnaround Time Cost and turnaround time are always important factors to consider. However, when evaluating website translation services, be careful not to compromise quality for lower prices. Look for a provider that offers competitive rates while maintaining high standards of quality and meeting your project deadlines. Conclusion: Finding the Right Website Translation Services With many website translation services available, choosing the best one for your needs requires careful consideration. By keeping the factors outlined in this guide in mind, you can make an informed decision. At Lingual Consultancy, we offer reliable and professional website translation services with competitive pricing and fast turnaround times.

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How Important is it to Translate PCR/COVID-19 Test Results?

How Important is it to Translate PCR/COVID-19 Test Results?

Since the spread of the COVID-19 global pandemic, international travel has been highly restricted and challenging. While travel is still possible, it comes with strict health requirements, especially if you exhibit flu-like symptoms associated with COVID-19. Some countries remain inaccessible except for citizens and permanent residents, while others allow travelers with mandatory quarantine periods. As infection rates fluctuate, COVID-19 travel regulations change frequently. One critical requirement in many destinations is presenting a negative PCR test result, which, in some cases, must be translated into the official language of the country you’re visiting. Importance of COVID-19 Test Results Why Are PCR Test Results Crucial for Travel? Today, a negative COVID-19 test result is as essential as a passport for international travel. Many countries will not allow entry without a valid PCR test result. If you take the test in your home country, you may only need an English translation. However, some destinations require translations into other languages such as French, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, or Portuguese. The necessity of presenting negative test results depends on each country’s regulations. If you are traveling from a high-risk country, providing a negative PCR test result—often in the local language—is mandatory. Language Requirements for Test Result Translation Upon arrival at an international airport, authorities often require translated PCR test results. If your test result is in a language different from the official language of the destination country, you must have it translated by a certified professional. For example, if you arrive at a Greek airport with a PCR test result in English, immigration officials may not accept it unless it has been translated into Greek. Many countries require test result translations to be done by certified translators to ensure accuracy and reliability. Importance of Translating PCR Test Results Why Do Immigration Authorities Require Translated Test Results? Airport officials and immigration officers must quickly verify your COVID-19 status before allowing entry. If your test result is in an unfamiliar language, it can cause delays or even entry denial. This is why translated documents are often a mandatory requirement. Risks of Not Having Translated Test Results Imagine arriving at your destination, only to discover that authorities do not recognize your test result due to the language barrier. Without an accurate translation, you may face delays, additional testing, or even denied entry. It is crucial to ensure that your PCR test results are translated correctly before you travel. Certified Translation of PCR Test Results Why You Need a Certified Translator for Medical Reports Due to the sensitive nature of medical reports, including PCR test results, you cannot rely on online translation tools or uncertified translators. Many countries only accept translations from professional, certified translators with expertise in medical or scientific fields. A poorly translated document can result in misinterpretations, leading to serious travel disruptions. To ensure accuracy, always choose a reputable translation service specializing in medical documents. Choosing the Right Translation Service When selecting a translation service, ensure they: PCR Test Results Translation with LC Fast & Reliable Medical Translations by Lingual Consultancy Avoid the hassle of last-minute translation issues. At Lingual Consultancy (LC), our certified translators specialize in medical document translations, including PCR test results. We ensure accuracy, quick turnarounds, and compliance with international travel regulations. Get in Touch for Expert Translation Services For professional medical translations, contact us at:📧 Email: [email protected]📞 Phone: +91 124 2848100

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Wearable Technology Localization in 2020

Wearable Technology Localization in 2020

Technology is rapidly integrating into our daily lives, and wearable technology is at the forefront of this revolution. From smartwatches and smart glasses to earpieces, wearable devices are becoming essential in modern life. However, as these devices are becoming more global, localization has become a crucial challenge. In some countries, people who don’t speak English or have different preferences may feel left out of the wearable tech experience. Localization isn’t just about translating text—it involves adapting a product to meet the preferences, language, and cultural nuances of each target market. Let’s explore how wearable tech companies can overcome these challenges and make their products more globally accessible. The Challenge of Localization in Wearable Technology Localization involves much more than just converting text to a different language. Wearable technology companies need to consider a range of factors, from language support to cultural preferences, and even the way consumers interact with these devices. Some regions may have legal restrictions or language support requirements that are essential to ensuring a device functions well in that locale. Companies must adapt not just the interface but also how the device communicates with the user to make it truly global-friendly. Demographic Preference Research Understanding the preferences of users in different regions is key to successful localization. For example, in some cultures, people prefer more interactive voice prompts, while others might lean toward straightforward, no-nonsense instructions. The voice of a wearable device could be another crucial factor—some may prefer a masculine voice, while others might favor a softer, feminine tone. Tailoring these preferences to different regions can greatly enhance the user experience and make the technology feel more personalized. Strings & Speech in Localization Localization also involves translating strings and speech commands that devices use to communicate with users. This process ensures that language fits the screen size and that commands are culturally appropriate. But beyond strings, wearables with speech functionality face unique challenges. For example, users in different regions might phrase commands in varying ways. The ability to recognize and respond to these regional differences is key to creating a seamless experience. Localization of Strings The process of translating strings goes beyond simple text replacement. It also involves adjusting the layout, ensuring fonts fit well, and using synonyms or shorter phrases where necessary to fit the space. Different languages have different sentence structures and character lengths, so localization experts need to be creative when working with these strings. Localization of Speech In wearables with voice recognition, ensuring that commands are recognized and understood correctly is essential. This might involve customizing voice prompts and responses to reflect regional speech patterns. A well-localized wearable will offer speech functionality that can understand local dialects, phrases, and even accents, making it more user-friendly and accessible. Quality Assurance in Localization While localization is essential, it’s equally important to ensure that the localized product is tested thoroughly. Even if the device works perfectly in its original language, it might not perform as well in a new market. Therefore, rigorous field testing is necessary to ensure that everything, from voice commands to text formatting, functions smoothly in the localized version. Quality assurance is a critical part of the localization process to ensure customer satisfaction and smooth user experiences across borders. Field Testing and Evaluation Post-localization testing plays a pivotal role in ensuring that wearables function properly in different regions. This testing process helps identify any glitches or cultural mismatches that could affect the user experience. It’s crucial for companies to continuously evaluate and improve their devices based on feedback from real users in various markets. Conclusion: Why Localization Matters for Wearable Tech Localization isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for wearable technology companies aiming to go global. By focusing on demographic preferences, localizing strings and speech, and ensuring high-quality testing, companies can create devices that cater to diverse global markets. Localization is the key to making wearable technology accessible and useful to people worldwide, regardless of language or culture.

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4 Trends for The Translation Industry in 2020

The translation industry is evolving at a rapid pace due to technological advancements, globalization, and the rising demand for multilingual communication. As businesses expand across borders, the need for accurate, high-quality translations is more critical than ever. In 2020, several key trends are set to shape the industry, revolutionizing how translations are done. From the demand for new languages to the rise of voice search, video translation, and globalization, the translation industry is undergoing a massive transformation. Let’s explore the four key trends that will define the industry in 2020 and beyond. 1. New Language Demand Rising Demand for Chinese (Mandarin) As the global economy continues to evolve, so does the demand for different languages. In 2020, one language stands out as the most sought-after: Chinese (Mandarin). With nearly 1.2 billion native speakers, Mandarin is the most spoken language in the world and the second-most used language online, following English at 25.4%. According to Ethnologue, China’s economic growth has driven an increasing need for Mandarin-speaking professionals, making it a key language for business, trade, and global expansion. Business Wire also highlights how China’s booming tourism industry has fueled the demand for speech-to-speech translation. Countries such as India, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand are experiencing a surge in Chinese-speaking visitors, creating an urgent need for businesses to offer Chinese translation services. Furthermore, AGATO reports that the number of companies looking for Mandarin-speaking employees has increased by 35% compared to previous years. As China cements its position as a global economic powerhouse, Mandarin translation services will become more valuable than ever. Businesses that fail to accommodate this shift risk missing out on a massive market. Role of Speech-to-Speech Translation With new language demand comes the need for advanced translation technologies. To meet this rising demand, speech-to-speech translation tools are being developed to facilitate seamless communication. New AI-powered systems can now instantly translate spoken words into multiple languages, making business interactions smoother and more efficient. Companies that invest in cutting-edge translation solutions will have a competitive advantage in the global market. 2. Voice Search Growth of Voice Search Technology Traditionally, users would type their queries into search engines, but now voice search is taking over. Smartphones, AI-powered assistants, and smart devices have made it easier than ever to search the internet simply by speaking a command. Voice search technology is not only more convenient but also faster and more intuitive, making it an increasingly popular method of searching among people of all age groups. Studies predict massive growth in voice search usage. According to ComScore, by 2020, 50% of all online searches will be conducted through voice search. Additionally, a Gartner study anticipates that 30% of all web browsing will be done without a screen, as voice-based AI assistants become smarter and more responsive. Development of Speech Translation Systems With the rise of voice search, the demand for real-time speech translation is growing rapidly. One of the most innovative developments in this field is JANUS, a speech translation system developed by Dr. Alexander Waibel and his team. Waibel has also created Jibbigo, the first commercial speech translator for iPhones, and a real-time simultaneous speech translation system for lectures. Additionally, in May 2019, Google AI announced Translatotron, a groundbreaking system designed to translate speech directly from one language to another while preserving the original speaker’s voice. This AI-driven innovation is a significant step toward Google’s long-term vision of end-to-end speech-to-speech translation, making real-time multilingual conversations a reality. 3. Video Translation Rise of Video Content Consumption The rise of digital content has led to an explosion in video consumption. From short-form content on YouTube to long-form content on Netflix and Hulu, videos are now the dominant form of online engagement. This shift has fueled a massive demand for video translation, as businesses and content creators seek to reach global audiences. According to the Cisco Visual Networking Index (VNI): Increasing Demand for Video Subtitling & Dubbing With such a significant increase in video consumption, businesses must adapt their content to multiple languages. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that videos are accessible to a global audience. Studies show that 85% of Facebook videos are watched without sound, making subtitles essential. This growing demand for video translation, subtitling, and dubbing presents a huge opportunity for the translation industry. Businesses that invest in multilingual video content will have a greater chance of expanding their reach, improving engagement, and boosting conversions. 4. Globalization Impact of Globalization on the Translation Industry As businesses continue to expand into international markets, the need for multilingual services has skyrocketed. Companies are realizing that localized content is crucial for success in global markets. Annual enterprise spending on translation services is expected to reach USD $56.18 billion by 2021, driven primarily by globalization and digital transformation. Businesses that fail to localize their content risk losing potential customers to competitors who speak their language. Growth of Multilingual Business Services A study by Sri Sharma from Net Media Planet reveals that companies witness a 20% increase in conversions when they translate landing pages and advertisements. Additionally, websites that fully localize their content experience a 70% rise in engagement, demonstrating the power of multilingual marketing. As more companies recognize the benefits of translation and localization, the industry is expected to grow at an exponential rate, making translation services a necessity rather than an option. Get Professional Translation Services As the demand for language translation and localization continues to rise, businesses need professional and reliable translation solutions. Lingual Consultancy Services offers expert language translation in over 250 languages, covering all major Indian, Asian, European, Latin American, and African languages. Whether you need document translation, website localization, or video subtitling, we have you covered!

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Five Localization Industry Trends for 2018

Five Localization Industry Trends for 2018

The translation industry has faced many challenges, and with the rise of neural machine translations, inferior as they may be to human work, they have grown exponentially. Additionally, new language technology has emerged rapidly, and the growth of online video and e-learning content has further added to the industry’s complexity. This has forced language service providers worldwide to stay agile and differentiate themselves with superior service. As we look at the year 2018, here are the key trends that are expected to shape the localization and translation landscape. Neural and Adaptive Machine Translations Will Become Even More Common Neural Machine Translation (NMT) has been steadily improving, with service providers investing significant resources to enhance its performance. In 2018, we expect this technology to become even more common and to be integrated into tools like CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) and Translation Management Systems (TMS). However, while machine translation is improving, it’s important to note that it will never be as effective as human translation, especially when the translation requires expertise in a particular domain. Multilingual Digital Content Will Rise in Demand The demand for multilingual digital content will continue to grow, especially with search engines creating new needs for content in various languages. This increase in demand is expected to significantly contribute to the growth of the language industry. As content creators strive to meet this demand, localization and translation services will be more critical than ever. Demand for Video Content Will Keep Growing Cisco predicts that by next year, 80% of the internet’s traffic will be video content. With video being a powerful medium, localization and translation of video content will become even more essential. As more businesses and organizations expand globally, the need for localized video content will increase, especially with the rise of e-learning platforms and video-based marketing. Interpretation Technology Will Improve Interpretation technology is advancing rapidly, with tools like Google’s real-time translation headphones leading the charge. While these technologies are still not as accurate as human interpreters, they have become increasingly accessible to the average user, and their performance is expected to improve significantly in 2018. These advancements will make interpretation services more widely available but will still require human experts for high-quality translation. ISO Certifications Will Become More Relevant As the language service industry continues to evolve, ISO certifications will play a more significant role. In 2017, ISO introduced new standards for post-editing machine translation, such as ISO 18587:2017. With the growing use of machine translation, these certifications will become increasingly important for ensuring quality and consistency in translation services. Translators may pursue certifications in ISO 18587, ISO 21720 (XML localization), and ISO 18841 (interpretation) to stay competitive in the industry. At Lingual Consultancy, we remain ahead of these trends, offering a combination of people, technology, and expertise to provide the best translation and localization services. No matter what challenges the industry faces, we are here to ensure that your content remains professional, proficient, and localized for every market.

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How to Localize @ Berlinale 2018

How to Localize @ Berlinale 2018

In our post we went a little deeper into the localization, and in this post we will highlight some of the challenges that filmmakers and right holders face when it comes to localizing. Understanding Localization Challenges Even when two countries share the same language, as in the United States and the United Kingdom, the premises or themes of many shows are not well adapted to all kinds of audiences. It becomes even more evident in countries and regions that may have less in common culturally, linguistically, or in terms of language family. A crucial aspect of localization is ensuring that you do not offend your audience, as well as navigating through any potential censorship issues. The Impact of Cultural Differences on Film Localization So, how do you localize? In the Russian language, for example, content is usually 60% longer than English, while in the Thai language it is usually 50% shorter than the English equivalent. Colors, for example, can have different meanings in different countries, so it is not just words that may create negative appeal. Language Length Differences in Localization Objects and ideas hold a variety of symbolic meanings in different cultures and localities. So, it’s important that the connotations of colors, foods, and animals—amongst many other things—are taken into account before simply undertaking a literal translation. Symbolic Meaning of Colors, Foods, and Objects For example, you can’t present South Korean farmers in a film with an ox and cart, architecture that looks more Japanese than Korean. It would also be well-thought that the same characters’ names or the use of surnames be considered. In certain countries, such as Spain, two surnames are common. Cultural Sensitivity in Film Content Another widely successful method of selling your film to an international market is the use of actors who are already very popular with your target audiences or the opposite—using locals. Stereotyping and the Importance of Accurate Representation In the United States, children may have a negative opinion of certain vegetables, like broccoli, but Japanese children do not seem to have such a negative opinion of this vegetable. So, broccoli could be replaced by green peppers. However, green peppers in Japan are generally considered to be disgusting. Effective Localization Methods for International Markets People of Indian nationality do not eat pork or veal, preferring chicken. There may also be differences in meal times or working hours. Let’s also consider different attitudes towards certain drinks—not only food. For example, the normal consumption of beer in Germany, which in some localities might be considered poorly, is quite compatible with their culture. Using Popular Actors for Local Audiences In China, the concept of time travel is at odds with its cultural values, as it deters the rewriting of history or the promotion of cults or superstitions, or films that have become taboo in countries such as Russia and Malaysia for the projection of sex scenes that are not consistent with their values. Navigating Cultural Attitudes Toward Time Travel and Taboo Topics Censorship and Cultural Values in International Markets Why Localization is Essential for Modern Film Audiences The answer is yes, in a world driven by consumerism, satisfying the needs and desires of the consumer is paramount. The modern market requires not only the translation of content but a translation that the viewer will enjoy. Film Industry Examples: When Localization Goes Wrong Do you know of any examples in the film industry that fail to take localization into account? How will you localize your next movie or series? Let us know!

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Localization Success Story: Netflix

Localization Success Story: Netflix

In its current form, Netflix’s enterprising globalization push began in early 2016 and has surpassed its original expectations, with further growth expected to continue. However, it certainly could not have reached this peak without responding to the desires of its viewers from around the world with first-class video localization, including dubbing, subtitling, content localization, and internationalization. How Netflix Became an Entertainment Giant Netflix is estimated to spend 70% of its video localization budget on dubbing, and due to the nature of this content, human translation is in high demand. The pioneering video transmission company has projected growth that aligns with Wall Street forecasts. Having an intuitive, easy-to-use, and localized User Interface (UI) also significantly contributes to its success. Being available on the web and accessible on a large number of devices and platforms virtually guarantees its dominance in the entertainment industry. The Power of Localization in Netflix’s Global Expansion How is it that Netflix managed to become an entertainment giant? The secret lies in its massive investment in producing and acquiring original content to dominate the markets in which it competes. Additionally, Netflix heavily invests in localization by betting on productions in different countries. If there is one thing that characterizes Netflix, it is its universality—it is available in more than 190 countries. For the first time, more than half of its subscribers are outside the United States, bringing the international total to more than 52 million users. Investment in Content and Localized Experiences “The key really is to tailor programming to local tastes,” added Sarandos, Netflix’s chief content officer. Netflix is now the ninth largest internet company in the world by revenue, valued at approximately $42 billion. This success is driven by an appropriate balance between local and global content, allowing the company to cater to diverse audiences. The Role of User Interface (UI) in Global Success Knowing its customers has been the key to Netflix localization success. The company continuously reinvents itself based on market demands. For example, when targeting an audience in a particular country, Netflix produces a show in that country featuring native actors, ensuring cultural relevance. This approach strengthens viewer engagement and enhances the streaming experience. Understanding Customer Preferences for Market Growth Netflix’s growth has generated a strong demand for localization, leading to the addition of Arabic, Korean, and Simplified Traditional Chinese to the 17 languages it already supports. By understanding and responding to customer preferences, Netflix ensures its content resonates with audiences worldwide. “Think Globally, Act Locally” – A Key Lesson for Businesses Your own localization program may not launch a product worldwide on such a large scale, but the success of Netflix localization success offers valuable insights. For the language services industry, the intense competition in original content has been beneficial, as international distribution plays a crucial role in making many original projects financially viable. What Can You Learn from Netflix’s Success? What do you think? Where do you believe the success of this platform lies? Let’s talk about your localization goals!

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