Overview
The article discusses SafetyCulture's localization initiative aimed at enhancing the iAuditor platform for better user experience across different languages and regions. It covers the challenges faced, strategies implemented, and lessons learned during the localization process, emphasizing the importance of context and collaboration among teams.
What You'll Learn
1
How to effectively localize web applications using linguiJS
2
Why providing context is crucial for accurate translations
3
How to avoid common pitfalls in localization processes
Prerequisites & Requirements
- Understanding of localization concepts and practices
- Familiarity with the Crowdin translation platform(optional)
Key Questions Answered
What components of the iAuditor platform need localization?
Localization at SafetyCulture includes mobile applications, web applications, product emails, and invoices. This comprehensive approach ensures that all user-facing elements are tailored to meet the needs of non-English speaking users, enhancing their experience across different platforms.
How does SafetyCulture handle translations for its applications?
SafetyCulture uses the linguiJS framework to wrap all strings in translation tags, which are then extracted into language-specific JSON files. These files are integrated with Crowdin, allowing human translators to work on them, and once completed, translations are merged back into the application through automatic pull requests.
What are the challenges faced during the localization process?
Challenges include providing sufficient context for translators, ensuring UI elements are adaptable to different languages, and avoiding string concatenation. These issues can lead to incorrect translations and a disjointed user experience if not properly addressed.
How does SafetyCulture standardize date and time formats?
SafetyCulture faced inconsistencies with date and time formats across its web application. They standardized on one library but recognized the need for multiple formats to accommodate user preferences, allowing users to choose their preferred date and time representation.
Technologies & Tools
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Frontend
React
Used for building the web application that requires localization.
Frontend
Linguijs
Framework used for managing translations in the web application.
Tools
Crowdin
Translation platform integrated with the web application's GitHub repository for managing localization.
Key Actionable Insights
1Ensure all user-facing strings are wrapped in translation tags to facilitate localization.This practice helps streamline the translation process and ensures that all text is easily translatable, reducing the risk of missing strings during localization.
2Provide context for translators by including screenshots and descriptions of the strings.This approach minimizes misunderstandings and improves translation accuracy, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the user experience.
3Involve cross-functional teams in the localization process to share best practices.Collaboration among engineers, product managers, and designers ensures that localization considerations are integrated into all stages of product development.
Common Pitfalls
1
Failing to provide context for translation strings can lead to incorrect translations.
Without context, translators may misinterpret the meaning of strings, resulting in translations that do not accurately reflect the intended message, which can confuse users.
2
Assuming that UI elements designed for English will work for other languages.
Different languages may have varying text lengths and structures, which can lead to UI elements breaking or becoming misaligned if not designed with flexibility in mind.
Related Concepts
Localization Best Practices
Translation Management
Cross-functional Collaboration In Software Development