Back to Basics: The Localization Process
By R. Kevin Maryott, Solutions Architect, Globalization Group, Inc.

Most managers begin localization with little or no background knowledge of the localization process. This is understandable given that localization is often an afterthought to product development. Including localization process basics from the beginning of product development not only ensures that a product can be localized, but also increases the likelihood that the product will be accepted abroad.

From a high-level, here is a basic localization process that should help you, the localization manager, in mapping the localized product from conception to release:

1. Product features. Conceptualize your product features with the global market in mind.
2. Product development. Develop and internationalize your product to enable functionality abroad.
3. The RFP. Request for localization proposals (RFP), including cost quotations and schedule projections, from reputable localization companies. This will ensure you get the most “bang” for your buck and familiarize you with options.
4. Supplier selection. Select your localization supplier based on the criteria you developed for the RFP.
5. Supplier kick-off. Make sure you are part of the supplier’s project kick-off and that queries/areas of risk have been considered for mitigation prior to localization commencement.
6. Supplier localization. Supplier localization should include all of the following:
1. Evaluation of source product and components.
2. Preparation for localization.
3. Localization of product including translation/edit/review.
4. Localization engineering/desktop publishing (if required).
5. Localization QA/testing/fixing.
7. Localized product review/testing/fixing. Review/Test/Fix what your supplier has localized to ensure your quality standards are met. Remember fixing is a joint effort!
8. Sign-off. Provide your “stamp-of-approval” to the supplier in the form of a written “Sign-off.” This signifies that the localized product is complete and meets your standards.
9. Localized product delivery. Your supplier will deliver the localized product components to you via a specified medium. Be sure backup copies of components are sent via courier if your product delivery is handled through an FTP site.
10. Localized product assembly. Assemble and package your localized product for market.
11. Localized product release. Release your localized product to the target market.
12. Project wrap-up and review. Have a project wrap-up and review meeting with your localization supplier and your team to ensure that successes are recognized and challenges are resolved for future projects.

These steps are easily modified across industries and projects; however, be sure all steps appear as part of your process in one form or another. By doing so, you will mitigate potential challenges and reduce both localization time and cost.