The
web-globalization process
Assuming
a client wants to adapt an English site into multiple languages,
the ForeignExchange localization process falls into eight clearly
defined stages:
1. Site
analysis and strategy
We begin by evaluating your site in terms of site objectives,
target audience, complexity and culture-specific content. To create
a quote, we look closely at the following:
- word count
- graphics
- scripting,
database connectivity
- target
languages
ForeignExchange
will provide you with a quotation, timeframe and a dedicated project
manager who will consult with you and your team throughout the
process.
If the site
is not yet live, we will communicate with the designers and base
our quote assumptions on the content and design goals.
2. Site
duplication
Our project manager will work closely with your webmaster to duplicate
the site onto our server. After creating a mirrored directory
tree, we update all links as necessary. We also copy all CGI scripts.
From this point forward we can conduct all current and future
translations without needing to access the client server.
3. Localization
Before we begin translating raw text, we look closely at the overall
content. Are any subjects or visuals going to be offensive or
confusing to the local audience? For instance, colors mean different
things to different cultures.
And what
about product descriptions and pricing? Do we need to modify currencies,
phone numbers, units of measure or distributor information? Our
project team will make sure you are aware of all potential conflicts
and that you approve every change. If we have doubts about any
piece of text or graphic image, we will flag it for client review.
4. Glossary
preparation
To facilitate text translation and save time and money, we will
consult with you to build a glossary of commonly used terms and
phrases. This glossary ensures consistency throughout the translation
process. Upon project completion, this glossary is delivered to
the client.
5. Text
translation
To become a ForeignExchange translator, one must have three years
of industry experience, must pass a rigorous in-house exam and
"probation period," and must be well versed in the terminology
of the client's industry.
Our project
manager will select the appropriate translators and manage them
throughout the process. In addition to raw text, we also translate:
- text in
scripts
- text labels
for images
- meta tags
- page titles
- table text
- rollover
text
ForeignExchange
supports industry-standard translation-memory applications to
"memorize" frequently used terms and phrases and re-use them as
necessary. For example, the footer that repeats from page to page
will only need to be translated once. This saves time and money
because less text must be manually translated.
6. Visual
translation
We make sure all icons and visuals are as attractive and effective
in the target market as they are in the source market.
We generally
will work on the source file (e.g., Illustrator, Photoshop, Fireworks)
and create an identical copy in the target language needed. If
a source file isn't available, we can manipulate GIF and JPEG
files directly.
7. Testing
and client review
At this point we thoroughly test all scripts, links and rollovers.
If available, we will work with your in-country reviewers to do
the same. If you do not have an in-country team to review the
translation, we can provide this service as well.
8. Final
deliverables
We will post the translated site in a password-protected area
of our server. You and your reviewers will be free to review the
site and recommend any changes at this time.
Upon approval,
we will work with your webmaster to transfer the site to the server
of your choosing. At this point your source language site must
be slightly revised to incorporate links to the target language
site(s).
| 
