Introduction to Localization

Learn about the exciting field of localization and the skills needed to be a successful localizer.

Localization is the act of customizing language services and products to audiences who speak different languages. The strategies employed in localization are highly dependent on cultural, subject field, and textual/product expectations. Localization strategy is tailored to business goals in areas like sales, expansion, and growth. Localization work is performed in a dynamic environment of rapid technological advancements, ever-shifting regulations, and looming and unforeseen risks.

Join us to learn about opportunities in this exciting field and the skills needed to be a successful localizer. You will leave this session understanding that localization is anything but a one-size-fits-all approach.

What will you learn?

1. contemporary definitions for localization and quality in localization
2. the verticals, services types, and products encompassed by localization, along with the linguistic, technical, and quality planning that goes into producing localizations
3. about the variety of practitioners that collaborate to produce localization products and the competencies required for localization management roles
4. best practices that should be incorporated into localization productions, such as defining expectations for work and managing terminology and intellectual property securely
5. strategies for gauging the level of localization maturity in place at organizations so they can efficiently engage when working to take organizations to the next level

About the Presenter

Alaina Brandt is assistant professor of professional practice in the Translation and Localization Management program of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. She is membership secretary of ASTM (formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials) F43 on Language Services and Products, the group that writes American National Standards related to translation and localization. She is an expert in Technical Committee 37 on Language and terminology of the International Organization for Standardization. She is on the board of directors of the American Translators Association. She holds a Master of Arts in Language, Literature, and Translation from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.