There are varying definitions in the language services business for the term localization. It is generally used to refer to translating software or web pages into other languages. Yet localization, known in the business as “L10n,” goes beyond translation by taking into consideration the culture of the country or region in which the localized product will be used. For example, a localized text may be changed significantly in order to better appeal to its foreign target audience. LISA, the Localization Industry Standards Association defines localization as follows: Localization involves taking a product and making it linguistically and culturally appropriate to the target locale (country/region and language) where it will be used and sold.) The localization process, therefore, includes many more stages than just language translation. Target market analysis, software engineering, software testing and desktop publishing (DTP) all come into play in a localization project, which must be carefully managed every step of the way. At Language Translation Inc., specialized project managers oversee our ten-step localization process to ensure accuracy and client satisfaction every time. “Let us show you how good localization can be.” Betty Carlson Subscribe to Language Lines, our monthly newsletter, for current information about language and technology in the global marketplace. | 
