Localization, when properly executed, serves as the backbone for
a successful global product.

It is what sets apart an excellent global
product like Airbnb with a presence in over 220 countries
worldwide from Swedish vacuum company; Electrolux whose epic
localization fail may have led to its mediocre U.S market
entry.

With that in mind, organizations’ approach towards localization
when going global needs a re-think, especially for digital products (Software,
Games, web platforms, etc.), which require constant refreshing or updates.

For the best end-products, localization needs to occur almost
simultaneously as development occurs and not after each developmental cycle so
that it (localization) does not become an obstacle.

In this post, we would be looking at continuous localization and
its role in delivering a successful global product.

What is continuous
localization?

Continuous localization is an approach that suggests a fluid,
back and forth-like arrangement for integrating the translation/localization
process into software development.

The traditional method of carrying out localization projects
involves a waterfall model that occurs in phases and is more sequential in
approach. This method, when compared to software developments’ agile approach,
is an apparent mismatch that leads to slower update releases, poor and
inconsistent translations, high translation costs, etc., with the
latter being more iterative and having tasks that occur at specific time
cycles.

In summary, continuous localization can be likened to a modified
form of an agile workflow. But instead of working after each development
sprint, translation is happening in real-time, making content readily available
for release.

This method offers an efficient workflow that can guarantee
faster updates to market while at the same time enhancing collaboration between
all participants.

How does it work?

Think of continuous localization like the bakery that adopts
continuous mixing to blend its ingredients. Instead of using a batch system
where all constituents are loaded and mixed before discharge, continuous
metering incorporates steady metering of ingredients into a mixing chamber,
then mixing takes place at all stages.

The end product is baked goods that are more consistent in
texture, shape, and size and are of high quality.

In any effective continuous localization, the development team’s
updated strings and code is uploaded to its repository, which should sync
relevant strings to the translation management system. Thereafter, the
localization team effects the necessary translation, and these changes
automatically sync and reflect in the repository.

The continuous update process more or less takes place
concurrently at every stage within a development sprint. There are no pauses
within a sprint, and it involves the active collaboration between the development
and localization team either directly or through a localization manager.

Continuous localization is more efficient if internationalization considerations are factored into the early stages of development as it helps reduce the workload for both parties.

What are the benefits
of continuous localization?

Besides its economic benefits, continuous localization offers
crucial advantages for software and gaming-related entities, especially if the
product’s scope is vast and requires quick updates.

The practice enables companies;

1. Release multilingual product updates – With Continuous
   l10n, the development team focuses on churning out updates while the
   localization team can channel their attention towards translating the
   strings into the language(s) of interest, which would lead to a
   well-rounded and consistent end-product

1. Better collaborate – Continuous
   localization, when well-conceptualized, enhances collaboration between
   relevant stakeholders. Each participant is clearly aware of their
   respective roles and works towards achieving them. Plus, it even fosters
   team cohesion and communication.

1. Release quick-to-market products – The ability to
   quickly make changes to a product coupled with the reduction in
   organizational bottlenecks results in digital products getting to market
   faster and multilingual updates being released simultaneously, which gives
   the feeling of inclusion to end-users and improves the overall user
   experience.

Adapting continuous
localization beyond software and gaming

The concept of continuous localization, despite commonly
associated with software development and gaming can be adapted to just about
any product.

Incorporating a continuous mode of localization into your
product campaign or development workflow helps to get rid of bottlenecks often
associated with translation, enables your organization to streamline its
operations and take hold of business opportunities as they come. Thus, keeping
you ahead of the competition.

It is often common to find the concept of continuous
localization being adopted in; E-commerce and support content, rapid product
prototyping, modular technical documentation, and a host of other areas.

Wrapping it up

Taking your software to the global scene
demands a shift from the conventional development workflow to a more
collaborative one that churns out translations in real-time, especially when
quick and regular updates are required. 

Also, it is worthy to note that the concept of
continuous localization is not limited to software and gaming alone. Companies
can adapt the underlying principle to reap the benefits that come with it.

Are you interested in taking your brand global
in these difficult times? The translation and localization specialists at Translationsinlondon are on standby to
provide the most efficient solutions for your business.

Reach out to our
team today to get started