Decoding Website Localisation: 7 Aspects to Find the Right Translation Partner

Are you planning to expand your online presence by localising your website? If so, choosing the right translation partner for website localisation is crucial for a successful global reach. But with so many options available, how do you ensure you make the best choice?

In this article, we’ll address the seven key factors you should weigh up carefully to find the linguistic solution you need and gain a partner that fits your expectations.

# 1 Expertise

Pick a company with extensive experience in website or app localisation. Seek a partner who is well-versed in the intricacies of these types of projects, including understanding the unique challenges and requirements of different content types (such as landing pages, blogs, menus, etc.) Moreover, it can be of great help to find a linguist team that localises? projects in the same domains as yours—that is, if your website deals with eCommerce or travel, if they’re competent in these industries. Their familiarity with industry-specific terminology ensures precise translations tailored to your website's niche.

#2 Native Linguists

When teaming up with native translators, you get the best results since they can perfectly understand the cultural context and idiomatic expressions, resulting in translations that resonate with the target audience. Continuing with the eCommerce site example, a native linguist would be adept at using the appropriate terminology, local currency, and relevant cultural references. By incorporating these elements, your localised website can create a seamless user experience, establish trust, and enhance customer engagement. So, make sure to check that your next partner works with professional translators who are native speakers of the specific languages that you need.

#3 Quality Assurance

Inquire about the company's quality control processes and make sure they follow the best industry standards. A reliable partner should have a QA process of at least three steps (that includes editing and proofreading) and offer you a tailored workflow. This is vital to ensure that the translated content is error-free, relevant, and culturally appropriate.

Learn about the ins and outs of a holistic QA plan and gain some insight into how a streamlined process works.

#4 Project Management

Opt for a company with dedicated project managers (PMs) who can efficiently coordinate timelines, communicate with all stakeholders, and address your concerns. Effective project management ensures smooth collaboration, timely deliveries, and the ability to handle any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the translation and localisation process. In addition, with a dedicated PM, you are assured that if after performing some website testing you want to implement changes, everything will be done in a coordinated and seamless manner.

#5 Scalability

Consider the agency's availability to handle your future translation needs as your business expands into new markets. Maybe you’re aiming for a bilingual website now because it matches the new location and audience you’re targeting. But what if in the future you want to reach more places? So, search for a company with a robust infrastructure, a broad network of translators, and the flexibility to accommodate increasing volumes of content. Scalability ensures that your localisation efforts can grow alongside your brand without compromising quality or timelines.

# 6 Confidentiality

Ensure the translation company has stringent confidentiality measures to protect your sensitive information. This includes signed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with their translators and employees, secure data storage protocols, and adherence to industry standards such as GDPR compliance. A reliable translation company will prioritise data privacy and take every precaution to safeguard your proprietary information throughout the localisation process.

#7 Client References

Request client references or case studies from your potential language partner to gain insight into their track record and client satisfaction. Positive comments and testimonials demonstrate their skills and commitment to delivering quality translations and meeting client expectations. You can also ask about their experience working on similar projects, their responsiveness to specific needs, and more. A tip: If they’ve worked on projects related to the website or social media translation from renowned brands, you might see their skills in action (if the content is public and the translations are already available.)

Informed Decisions, Outstanding Results: Choosing the Ideal Website Localisation Partner

To choose the right partner, always pay attention to their responsiveness, communication, and ability to meet deadlines. Make all the questions you consider necessary to assess their professionalism, attention to detail, and willingness to go the extra mile when it's for a better outcome.

All of this can give you access to the information you need to make an informed decision that you won’t regret later on. And, afterwards, it ensures that the chosen agency has a proven track record of providing exceptional linguistic services—and that your localisation project will be handled in the same expert manner.