Software localization
Description
Software localization ensures that every user, wherever they are, interacts with your product as if it were built for them. It combines translation, engineering and cultural adaptation to align text, visuals and functionality across languages.
The process typically starts with internationalization (I18n) – preparing code and design to support different scripts and regional formats. Linguists then translate and localize strings, UI elements and documentation while engineers manage file structures, character encoding and placeholders to prevent breakage. Finally, localization testing validates layout, display and functionality across operating systems and devices. Effective software localization delivers intuitive, consistent experiences that improve satisfaction and expand global reach. It’s not only about words – it’s about usability and trust.
Example use cases
- UI/UX: Adapt menus, dialogs and notifications to fit local conventions.
- Apps: Optimize responsiveness, formatting and right-to-left layouts for mobile and web.
- Gaming: Ensure dialogue, menus and subtitles align perfectly in every language.
- Enterprise: Standardize terminology and compliance messaging globally.
- IoT: Support firmware and interface localization across markets.
Key benefits
RWS perspective
At RWS, software localization blends linguistic accuracy with technical precision. Our teams combine expert translators, UX specialists and software localization engineering experts to adapt applications for any market or platform.
Using Trados and Language Weaver, we streamline translation workflows and integrate AI-powered automation without losing human nuance. Localization testing teams validate linguistic and functional quality to guarantee every release works as intended. Clients such as Netgear and global tech innovators rely on RWS for end-to-end delivery – from internationalization consulting to final QA. Our Human + Technology model accelerates release cycles, increases consistency and maintains authenticity at scale.