Business Translation and Localization

The business world of today is very different than the one our parents knew. Mom and Pop shops don’t survive these days due to an ever expanding global market that requires translation and localization of your business.

Translation

In order for a business to reach a global market they have to learn to speak the language of their market, figuratively and literally. It is important to find a translation company that is experienced not only in translating but also in business and marketing.

When it comes to translation, many times a direct translation is not the correct translation. Not only do different languages work in very different ways there are often many different translation possibilities for a single phrase. The correct translation can depend not only on the context, but also on the geographical area that the translation is being prepared for.

It is for these reasons that it is important to find language translation services that can correctly translate your documents and advertisements in the way you are aiming for. A single incorrect translation can make your company look unintelligent or even offensive to those who read your documents, advertisements, or other form of text.

Localization

Localization is a matter of tailoring your products and services to the market you wish to target. One advertising scheme or product in particular may work extremely well in one location and completely fail in another. What happens if your advertisement is mistranslated? Chances are your company will lose the interest of potential customers who are not going to trust a company that can’t even speak their language.

One good example of the need for localization services took place in Asia. When soda companies first began selling twelve ounce soda cans in Asia they were shocked to see that their sales were extremely low, much lower than they had predicted based on their market demand surveys. Upon further inspection it was noted that most Asian beverages were being sold in much smaller cans. The soda companies then began producing soda in smaller cans which sold incredibly well.

Such small details can make a big difference. In the rapidly growing global market the ability of your company to overcome lingual and cultural barriers will have a great effect on your company’s success.

Kent Fairbourn is fluent in English and Portuguese and works as a Client Account Specialist for 10x Marketing. Go now to Multiling for all your localization and translation needs.