Exploring the Testing Phase of Software Localization

Software localization comprises several steps. So, you will need to wait for a relevant time before you receive a result of what you ordered. Testing is one of the crucial stages to keep in mind. If you want to obtain peculiarities on how it is performed, just follow below.

A Short Word on Software Localization

This process refers to adapting the software to the needs of a certain target audience. Usually, a specific pool of users comes from a particular country. There is a lot of work behind these words in most cases.

Software localization services normally include such steps as globalization, localization, and testing. Each of them is tied to a certain pricing that will be offered to you by the team of experts. Globalization is a sort of preparatory step. Localization touches upon adaptation of the text, images and graphics, data formats, and more. And here goes testing. Its main purpose is to check that everything works okay regardless of various conditions. This refers to the types of devices, operating systems, browsers, and so on.

Linguistic Testing

There is a lot of stuff that has to be checked in connection with the linguistic aspect. Grammar and spelling are one of the main points. Plus, testers make a lot of effort to evaluate the correctness of terminology. Any sort of mistakes linked to translation have to be reviewed and dealt with. By the way, the text content should also comply with the peculiarities of the country it is adapted for.

Functionality Testing

Everything is quite clear from the name of this kind of testing. Any localized software should function fine, and this is the key to success. A client may have to provide the scripts and test plans for checking the original software.

UI Testing

The user interface means a lot when it comes to the localization of anything. In most cases, there is a necessity for localization when a business is trying to expand to other markets. The overall impression the user will have will actually determine if he will be interested in the product/brand or not. The software should look fine evaluating it from the prospect of the client.

Compatibility Checkups

It has already been touched upon above a little bit. The software has to be checked in connection with the browsers that will be used by the target audience. Another aspect is checking linked to operating systems.

So, there are several parameters that need to be assessed within testing, and you shouldn’t underestimate their importance.

How Long Will the Testing Phase Take?

Since there are quite a few points to check and test, you may have to wait for a relevant time until everything is complete. The best thing you can do is to ask about the timeframes directly. Adequate firms and companies correctly inform the clients about the approximate timing.

It is also a smart idea to wonder how long each of the steps is about to take at the beginning of collaboration. This will help you adapt your business plans and strategies.

There is an important aspect to keep in mind: do not hurry the experts with the testing. The mistakes ignored within the process may affect your project in the near future.

Smart Approaches to Testing Introduced by the Expert Teams

The really nice teams have several hints that make testing more effective and short when speaking of the timeframes for the client. A few of them are considered below.

First of all, there is such a cool point as testing early. It is good when there is some time left after small steps of localization. In this case, it is real to come up with a few adaptations and avoid too relevant mistakes later.

Next, testing can be interconnected with automation, and it is good when it happens exactly this way. This speeds up the process a lot. Plus, the experts may be more certain that they have not missed anything important within the testing.

Finally, a good team always prioritizes things. Language and formats have to be put first. It is essential to remember that the whole idea of localization revolves around language and cultural adaptation.

Choosing the Team That Will Perform High-Quality Localization and Testing

This is one of the hardest matters for the clients. But in reality, it is just enough to pay attention to specific details when picking the team you will be working with. Here they are:

• The way a company’s representatives communicate with you. The general tone should be polite, and all data you will receive must be clear and evident. It is good when the team is eager to ask any of your questions and reveal their doubts. If you see the opposite stuff, it is a strong reason to seek another firm.
• Adequate costs compared to what is offered on the market. So, you will surely have to do a bit of research here and request a quote. But at the same time, you may come across a higher cost if the team can confirm a higher level of expertise compared to other firms. And, it is up to you to decide who to turn to in this case.
• Good-looking official site that provides you with the relevant data on software localization. The more info you can receive, the better it is.

Is There a Sense in Trying to Cut Down the Software Localization Cost?

Always remember about the balance between the price and the quality you will receive in the end. If you make an attempt to save a lot, you can receive poorly localized software that will work against you. It will result in fatal errors, spoiled first impressions of the new clients, and decreased revenue. So, consider the matter thoroughly enough.

Hope you feel more aware of the nuances tied to software localization testing. Choose the team wisely, and you will certainly be satisfied with the results you receive.