As most companies expand into a digital platform, websites are often the first impression a customer has of a company. With good design, convenience and ease of use, a website will entice customers to identify with a brand and become loyal customers. Companies that invest in website localization and translation services can generate new business abroad or expand to other markets faster than those that utilize a “one-size-fits-all approach.” Most companies invest in marketing campaigns tailored to a specific country, in which case website localization is equally as important. No matter how they’re done, these services require more than professional website translation to appeal to certain audiences.
What is Website Localization?
In a general sense, website localization means adapting anything to a different language, taking into account all regional peculiarities and technical requirements for a specific geographic location. It is fundamental to employ native speakers from a website translation company with experience in website localization. Overall, translation and localization services require a person with an understanding of the target culture to help supply appropriate content for a foreign market. Some of the top companies that have succeeded abroad owe their positive reception to website localization strategies, for instance:
Examples of Website Localization Today
Nescafé and Website Localization
Nescafé employed language service companies to customize its homepage depending on the country. For the US, it is simple monochromatic and straightforward text that is centralized. On the other hand, the homepage for Spain is a close-up photograph of coffee beans in a sack, generating an appealing color contrast between the attractive red of the beans and the beige bag. Additionally, the website shows the flag at the bottom of the page to add an even more specialized touch. In a similar manner, websites for other countries promote products that are more attractive in those countries. For example, the website for Peru and Japan (both countries that can get quite hot) feature iced coffee instead of hot coffee.
Coca-Cola and Website Localization
Coca-Cola, is a significant example of a company that is dedicated to web localization. They have consistently been focused on selling “joy” and “happiness.” They spread their brand by appealing to human connections and diversity. Currently, their website for each country has distinct pictures, videos and messages for each target market. Additionally, they feature the countries listed on their global page in English, as well as the Native language.
Nike and Website Localization
The last example is Nike, which is also a prime example of localization because their website is not only tailored to each market, but their offering differs as well depending on the country. For example, their US page features their latest products while their Argentinian page focuses on soccer cleats. Meanwhile for China, there are colorful pictures and 3-D visuals. Additionally, per a fundamental localization strategy, each country’s website has adapted sizes, prices and dates to the target market.
About Language Connections:
Language Connections is one of the top language service companies in the US. Over the last 30 years, we’ve focused on providing the best business translation services, interpreting services, as well as interpreter training and customized language training programs. In addition to top-tier corporate language training, we offer certified corporate interpreters and professional business translation services in 200+ languages. Our network includes linguists with backgrounds in all major industries. They’re ready to meet your needs, whether they’re for technical translation services, legal translation, government translation services, international development translation services, education translation services, life sciences translation, or something else. Reach out to us today for a free quote on our cost-efficient and timely translation services, interpreters, or other linguistic services.
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