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Japanese Software Localization

Japanese Software Localization

Japanese software localization is the process of adapting the language, appearance, and functionality of a software application for the Japanese market. Japanese software localization projects should be executed by experienced teams of localization professionals who work in conjunction with your software development group, ensuring that best practices for global software development are followed.

Japanese Software Localization

To fully localize your software for the Japanese markets, all components of a software package should be localized. This may include user interface, online help, databases, graphics, and documentation. It is important that all components are correctly localized and rigorously tested to ensure the resulting Japanese software is linguistically, culturally, cosmetically, and functionally correct.

A Japanese localization company should have solid experience and a comprehensive localization methodology which includes at a minimum:

  • Japanese Localization Kit Review, Analysis and Preparation
  • Japanese Glossary and Terminology Development
  • Japanese Cultural Correctness Assessment
  • Japanese Translation, Editing and Proofreading of User Interface, Help and Documentation Content
  • Japanese Graphics Localization, Dialog Re-Sizing, and Screen Capturing
  • Japanese Software Build
  • Japanese Online Quality Assurance
  • Japanese Usability, Localization and Functionality Testing
  • Client Review and Approval

You will need to provide your localization company with the following information, collectively referred to as a “Japanese Localization Kit”. This information allows them to analyze your software and to determine its Japanese localization requirements:

  • All files in your development environment, specifically Resource files (e.g. RC, RC2, DLG, H, HH, CPP, EXE, DLL, and graphic file formats).
  • All Documentation source files (e.g. FrameMaker, Word, etc.).
  • All HELP source files (e.g. graphics, RTF, VBS, HTML, CNT/HHX/HHC).
  • Reference material (glossaries, past translations, style guide, etc.).
  • File names and types, including an explanation of each file’s purpose.
  • The name and version of the development, documentation and Help authoring tool(s).
  • The location (directories/files) of any hard-coded literals which are in the user interface.
  • Original files of any third-party applications/components used.
  • Detailed build instructions (if applicable).
  • Test plan and test scripts (if applicable).

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