9 Critical Failures in Translation & Localization Projects and Programs: How to Avoid Them
CiklopeaTranslation and localization go beyond simply converting words from one language to another. These are complex processes that can make or break your company’s global expansion efforts.
Here, we dive into the 9 most common traps companies fall into and offer solutions according to our proven 3P Model (Prevention, Proximity, Popularity).
1. Prevention: Planning for Success
● Lack of Planning & Strategy: Don’t jump into translation blindly. Define your goals, target markets, and budget. A strategic plan will save you money, headaches, and embarrassing cultural missteps.
● Choosing the Wrong Vendor: Expertise matters! A vendor that doesn’t understand your industry will produce translations that miss the mark. Do your homework and find a partner specializing in your niche.
● Legal & Regulatory Compliance: Each country has its own laws governing things like data privacy and marketing content. Consult with experts to ensure your localized projects stay on the right side of the law.
2. Proximity: Communication is Key
● Communication & Collaboration: Translation projects often involve multiple teams across time zones. Establish clear communication channels and set expectations to avoid delays and rework.
● Wasting Time on Manual Processes: Technology is your friend! Use translation management systems and automation to streamline the process, reduce errors, and free up your team for higher-value tasks.
● Preserving Design & Layout: This is more than just aesthetics. Different languages take up different amounts of space. Design your content with localization in mind OR use tools that make formatting adjustments easy.
3. Popularity: Know Your Audience
● Not Knowing Your Target Market: A literal translation isn’t enough. Successful localization requires deep cultural understanding. Partner with in-country experts to tailor your message appropriately.
● Insufficient Control Over Source Material: Translators aren’t miracle workers. Provide clear, concise source texts with well-defined terminology to ensure the best possible output.
● Maintaining Brand Consistency: Your brand voice should be recognizable in any language. Establish clear style guides and glossaries, and enforce them across all translated content. Translation and localization are investments in your global success. By applying our 3P model, you can minimize potential pitfalls and ensure your message resonates with your audiences worldwide.
Do any of these challenges sound familiar? Our team at Ciklopea can help you develop a comprehensive localization strategy that puts you on the path to international growth.