Internationalization and localization help software work well for people in different languages, regions, and cultures. This lesson introduces the two processes, explains their relationship, and clarifies common terminology.
Internationalization is the process of designing software so it can be adapted to different languages and regions without requiring engineering changes for each one. It creates flexible foundations—for example, by separating translatable text from program code and allowing for different date, number, and writing conventions.
All flashcards
What is internationalization?
The design of software so it can be adapted to different languages and regions without engineering changes for each locale.
What is localization?
Adapting internationalized software for a specific language or region, including translation and locale-specific changes.
What do i18n and l10n mean?
They are numeronyms for internationalization and localization. Their numbers count the letters between the first and last letters of each word.
What is localizability?
The extent to which a product's resources and design are prepared to be adapted for different locales. Microsoft uses L12y as an abbreviation.
How are internationalization and localization related?
Internationalization provides adaptable foundations, while localization uses those foundations to tailor a product to a specific locale. One internationalized product can support multiple localizations.
Quiz questions
What is the primary purpose of internationalization?Answer: To build adaptable software without separate engineering for each locale.
What does localization do?Answer: It adapts software for a particular language or region.
Which sequence describes a typical globalization workflow?Answer: Planning, internationalization, localization, and quality assurance.
Why are user-facing strings commonly placed in resource files?Answer: They can be replaced or loaded for the selected locale.
Why can localization create ongoing costs beyond translation and engineering?Answer: Teams may also need to manage market-specific versions, regulations, support, and sales materials.