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Software Localisation

DEFINITION
Adapting software applications for different languages and cultures, including translating user interfaces, error messages, and documentation while ensuring cultural appropriateness.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Software localisation is the process of adapting software applications for use in different languages, regions, and cultural contexts. It goes beyond translating the user interface text to encompass every element that the user encounters, ensuring the localised software feels native to the target audience.

Software localisation involves translating all user-facing text including menus, buttons, labels, error messages, notifications, tooltips, and help content. It also includes adapting date, time, number, and currency formats for the target locale; adjusting units of measurement; adapting keyboard shortcuts and input methods; ensuring proper character encoding and font support for different scripts; handling text expansion in UI elements (German text can be 30% longer than English); accommodating right-to-left scripts for Arabic, Hebrew, and similar languages; and adapting colour schemes, icons, and imagery for cultural appropriateness.

The localisation process works closely with software development, typically using resource files that separate translatable content from code. This allows translation to proceed without modifying the source code and simplifies the management of multiple language versions.

Testing is a critical component of software localisation. Linguistic testing verifies that translations are accurate and contextually appropriate, while functional testing ensures that the localised version works correctly with different character sets, text lengths, and input methods.

LEXIGO provides software localisation services covering the full workflow from string extraction and translation through desktop publishing, linguistic testing, and delivery in production-ready formats.

WHY IT MATTERS

Software that has been poorly localised frustrates users and damages brand perception. Truncated text, formatting errors, untranslated strings, and culturally inappropriate content signal a lack of quality and care. For software companies entering new markets or serving multilingual users, professional localisation is the baseline for a credible user experience.

Given that software localisation involves both linguistic and technical components, working with a provider that understands both dimensions ensures that the localised product functions correctly and communicates clearly in every target language.

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