Think about the last time you made a purchase from a foreign company. Maybe you ordered something from an online store in Japan or bought a piece of jewelry from a boutique in Italy. Chances are, the experience was not relatively as smooth as making a purchase from a domestic company. That’s because localization was not taken into account. Website localization is the process of customizing a website for a specific market. This means translating content, changing currency and prices, and ensuring that the site can be accessed from the target country.
Website localization can be a challenge, but following these best practices will help you ensure a successful launch in any market.
1. Do your research
Before you even start translating your website, it’s important to do your research. This includes understanding the target market’s culture, customs, and business practices. It’s also important to clearly understand your products or services and how they fit into the foreign market. Only with this knowledge can you accurately localize your website.
2. Translate all content
Don’t leave any content untranslated. All website text, including the menu, product descriptions, and blog posts, should be translated into the target language. It’s also important to consider how cultural differences may impact translation. For example, some words or phrases may have different meanings in other cultures. As such, it’s important to work with a professional translator who understands the nuances of the target language.
3. Use local currency
When selling products or services online, it’s important to use local currency. This will help build trust with potential customers and make it easier for them to understand the price of your products. You should also consider offering free shipping to the target market. In some cases, customers may be willing to pay a higher price if they don’t have to worry about shipping costs.
4. Make sure the website can be accessed from the target country
If your website is not accessible in the target country, potential customers will not be able to find it. This can be due to a number of reasons, including server location, IP blocking, and website filtering. To avoid this, make sure to use a hosting provider that has servers in the target country. You should also test your website to ensure that it can be accessed from anywhere in the world.
How to Localise Your Website Easily and Cost-Effectively
1. Using Localisation Tools
Localization tools help you manage the process of localizing your website. They can be used to store and track translations and automate some of the tasks involved in localization. Website translation Skrivanek is one such tool. It helps you translate your website content quickly and easily without the need for expensive human translation.
2. Hiring a Localisation Agency
Another option is to hire a localization agency. This can be a good option if you don’t have the time or resources to localize your website yourself. A good localization agency will have experience translating websites and understanding the challenges involved in localization. They will also be able to help you adapt your website for the target market.
3. Working with Freelance Translators
Working with freelance translators can be a good option if you’re on a tight budget. There are a number of websites that connect businesses with freelance translators. When hiring a freelancer, be sure to check their reviews and portfolio. You should also agree on a price before starting the project.
Localizing your website is essential if you want to succeed in foreign markets. Following these best practices ensures that your website is properly localized for the target market.