Overview
The article discusses Netflix's innovative localization technologies, focusing on the Global String Repository and Hydra. It highlights how these tools enhance the localization process, improve efficiency, and support Netflix's expansion into global markets.
What You'll Learn
1
How to utilize the Global String Repository for efficient localization
2
Why Hydra improves localization testing across multiple devices
3
How to implement automated UI testing with Hydra
Prerequisites & Requirements
- Understanding of localization processes and UI design
- Familiarity with REST APIs and CI/CD tools like Jenkins(optional)
Key Questions Answered
What is the Global String Repository and how does it work?
The Global String Repository is a tool developed by Netflix that allows teams to store and retrieve localized UI strings at runtime. It integrates with the localization pipeline, enabling immediate access to translations without the need for application builds, thus streamlining the localization process.
How does Hydra facilitate localization testing?
Hydra catalogs every unique screen across various devices and locales, allowing localization specialists to view specific screens quickly. It automates the screenshot process through UI tests, significantly reducing the time needed for manual testing and ensuring that localization issues are identified efficiently.
What technologies are used in the Global String Repository?
The Global String Repository is built as a Java web application using Apache Cassandra and ElasticSearch, deployed in AWS. It exposes a REST API for retrieving localized string data and includes a UI developed with Node.js, Bootstrap, and Backbone.
Key Statistics & Figures
Number of customers using Netflix
over 60 million
This large user base necessitates efficient localization processes to ensure a seamless experience across different languages and devices.
Technologies & Tools
Some links below are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase.
Backend
Java
Used to build the backend microservice for the Global String Repository.
Database
Apache Cassandra
Used for storing localized string data in the Global String Repository.
Search Engine
Elasticsearch
Facilitates fast retrieval of localized strings.
Frontend
Node.js
Used to develop the UI for the Global String Repository.
Frontend
Bootstrap
Used in the UI development for responsive design.
Frontend
Backbone
Utilized in the UI for managing application structure.
API
REST API
Exposed by the Global String Repository for retrieving localized string data.
Key Actionable Insights
1Implementing the Global String Repository can drastically reduce localization delays.By allowing real-time access to localized strings, teams can avoid the lengthy build and approval processes typically associated with UI updates, enabling faster rollouts of content changes.
2Utilizing Hydra can streamline the testing of localized content across multiple devices.By cataloging unique screens and automating screenshot generation, Hydra allows localization teams to focus on critical issues without the overhead of manual testing.
Common Pitfalls
1
Failing to automate localization testing can lead to missed UI issues.
Manual testing is time-consuming and prone to human error. Implementing tools like Hydra can help automate this process, ensuring that localization issues are caught early.