Planning and implementation of localization processes

Preparation and assessment of the localization process

Before the localization project can get underway, we first examine the exact linguistic and technical aspects of the source product or text and discuss the terminology standards and all additional instructions together with you.

In the next stage, we perform an analysis of the source files, the text analysis based on the size, type of text, language combination and subject area and select the translator. In the preparation phase, we discuss the next steps for the localization and the use of necessary technical tools.

We require the following information to process a project inquiry:

• existing foreign-language documentation, previous translations or existing translation memory databases as reference material help to ensure stylistic and terminological consistency
• images, diagrams, drawings and other materials help to gain a better understanding of the context of the text to be translated
• all specifications and guidelines related to the individual project or product help KERN's specialist translators to translate difficult technical concepts correctly
• access authorizations, usernames and passwords as well as an explanation of technical tools

Adaptation using a translation memory system

Through its many years of work in the translation sector, KERN has access to a variety of relevant terminology lists that can come in handy for a possible comparison. To this end, KERN uses tools such as translation memory systems, through which a terminology comparison can be made and the translation process can be simplified.

In principle, the translation of a text and saving the source and target text segments in a translation memory database lay the foundations for the translation of any subsequent similar texts. Through this process, sections of text, sentences, parts of sentences and terminology from previous projects can be used as a basis for future translations, which ensures the stylistic and terminological consistency within one text as well as across multiple texts. Furthermore, this helps to increase the translation speed. An additional benefit is the creation of a comprehensive, client-specific database that can be used for your further translations. KERN is also prepared to migrate a translation memory database that you already possess into the KERN process.

Localization

At this stage, KERN's translators start to translate the document into the relevant language using a defined localization or translation process. The use of reference material to maintain client-specific terminology and any potential terminology lists provided by the client are of importance at this stage. KERN's specialist translators usually have at least 3 to 5 years' experience with translating texts into one language and specialize in one particular field.

Quality assurance

An important aspect of the localization project is carrying out quality assurance measures. At this stage, we check whether the user interface, the online help and the documentation have been fully localized or translated. The dialog boxes, menu buttons and function buttons in software solutions and on websites have to be resized in some cases. We will first discuss and agree this with you.

In accordance with the "four-eyes-are-better-than-two principle," the linguistic consistency and functionality of the files can, if desired, be checked by a second linguist. The second linguist checks whether the content has indeed been correctly translated into the target language and proofreads the text for grammar and spelling or checks the consistency and the use of terminology.

Delivery

The translated files can be delivered via FTP, on a data carrier, by email or via our portal cloud4client. Optionally, a backup copy of all files can also be created and archived. This way we can generally revert your files back at any time over several years by carrying out a project search.

Customer satisfaction

Your feedback represents a crucial phase of the KERN quality control procedure. A project assessment is important because this is the only way to determine – and further optimize, if necessary – KERN's project management efficiency, performance and quality of service.