Offering content, or even a
full website, in multiple languages means you can tailor your information to
different audiences but it can add complexity to development. Translating
content is the simple step but things can get tricky when it comes to
structuring and building a multi-lingual website.
For e-commerce sites in
particular, this often means adding support for international shipping and
incorporating additional languages into online shops.
Then, there’s also the
matter of sorting out domain names, web server configuration, URLs and webpage
layouts while keeping in mind all facets required for having multiple
languages.
But it’s not all bad news!
There are ways that you can cope with the challenges of implementing a
multi-lingual website. Here are our top tips for developing a website for
different languages:
Choose a qualified translator
If nobody on your team
possesses the skills to translate into your target languages, then you need to
hire a qualified translator. Avoid automatic translating apps, as they tend to
produce mediocre copy and don’t always incorporate accurate grammar and
phrasing.
Ideally, you should aim to
get a native speaker of the language. They are going to understand the quirks
and nuances specific to a language and avoid stiff or unnatural language during
translations. This is especially important when it comes to business jargon or
colloquialisms.
The image below shows an
actual road sign in Wales that has been lost in translation. The English is
clear but the Welsh reads: “I am not in the office at the moment. Send any work
to be translated.” It demonstrates the importance of proofreading everything
you get translated.
Read more
on... Tips for developing a
website for different languages
Author: Chris
Rickard
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