Software translation has been the demand of an advanced and digitalized world for decades now. A world that has become a global village is no longer relying on the products, software, and applications that are confined to a single country or region. As we have connected virtually and with technology important decisions have become a matter of a few clicks. Software translation and localization have become the epitome of accessibility. Software that the developers work on to help and facilitate the people is usually launched in one language. However, the developers have already started to design and develop the software to translate it into multiple languages followed by the localization process.
Software translation services are facilitating businesses and developers. They are helping them to bridge the gap and widen the reach making it accessible for every potential consumer. Translating software is a complex job. This process involves a lot of challenges and technicalities. Moreover, it is not similar to the translation of a particular text or paragraph. It comprises important features and parts that require translation. An accurate software translation is the key to an effective localization process. Therefore, only professionals must be hired for the translation of software and apps. Overlooking the need for competent translators can ruin the whole effort. The translators and the team need to have prior experience and a profound understanding of the translation of software as it is a technical process and demands people with a technical aptitude.
Here are a few facts that explain how software translation is a technical process and only experienced translators should be hired for the process.
Specialized Terminology
The software is all about a programming and technical language that only experts understand. There is a heavy use of technical jargon, syntax, and other industry-specific terms. The translators who have their specialization and expertise in software translation need to understand the concept of software, its language, and its main features. The proper understanding of the technical concepts helps with maintaining the accuracy of the translation.
Understanding functionality
Software is a functional setup. A simple translation does not work for the software. This is part of technical translation services. Therefore, to convey the intended meaning with a context in software translators requires a special understanding. They should also be able to understand the elements such as buttons, menus, and error messages. Moreover, this makes them provide a translation that can guide the potential users accurately.
Market adaptation
The developers translate the software content to make it resonate better with the needs of the local consumers. The process of adaptation of software according to market norms is challenging. It involves the technicalities and complexities meeting which is imperative for a quality translation leading to a seamless process of software localization.
UI/UX Considerations
The UI and UX considerations are primarily important. The software works with a certain UX in mind. Also, software translation should cover the UX considerations accurately. It is not text that the translators are dealing with in a software translation but rather the interface is also a technical part that requires a relevant translation. An accurate and precise translation of these elements is imperative to enhance the user experience.
String length
Different languages, their fonts, and writing scripts take up different spaces. These can require less or more space. English for instance is a compact language but Spanish or German can require more space. This is a big technical challenge for translators to adjust these UI elements and words. They have to struggle to make these fit in the target language. Moreover, they need to do that without compromising the usability.
Cultural icons and visuals
The interface needs to be different for different masses. This is another technical part where the developer has to deal with the adaption of the icons and visuals according to the target audiences after proper translation. Certain icons carry different significances and interpretations in different cultures. Therefore, a relevant interpretation is a must.
Technical documentation
The translation of software and apps is all part of technical translation. There is a lot of technical documentation also involved. Moreover, the translation of these documents demands technical expertise and linguistic fluency. Also, the translator should be proficient not only in the language pair but also familiar with the pattern and layout of the technical documents of software that authorities overseas look for.
Regulatory compliance
The developers and businesses also have to opt for regulatory compliance and its translation into the relevant languages. In addition, the content that is part of regulatory compliance is always tricky and contains complex language and details about the rules and regulations. Translating this content is another task that asks for experienced and subject matter experts for the translation process. Hence, to ensure that translated software adheres to the local standards and regulations, it is extremely crucial to have professionals who understand the concepts and technical parts of the process.
Conclusion
Software translation is a technical process. It has many technicalities involved. Therefore, the translators as well as the developer himself must understand the technical challenges that they can have to face as part of software translation. Technicalities majorly occur due to the specialized terminology, functionality, market adaptation, string length, and UI/UX considerations. Moreover, the cultural icons with technical documentation and regulatory compliance are also technical parts of the whole procedure.
