How does the localization process work?
The first contact
You have already taken the first step. You found LinguaLizard, and most likely you decided that you needed a translation. But even if you are not sure yet, you came to the right place. I can help you decide whether a localization is the right way to go for you. You can simply send an email my way.
If you already know the word count of your project, then please include it. This way I can give you an estimated timeframe.
What you may want to provide in the first email:
- Your company name
- Word count
- Deadline
- Target language(s)
- Game genre
I appreciate as much information as you can give, but we can also start with a simple introduction of your company and what brought you to LinguaLizard.
As soon as we figure out how I can be of service, we can get started.
Are you unsure about the word count of your (game) content? You can send the text file(s) that you need translated my way. I will run an analysis with a modern CAT (computer-assisted translation) tool. That way, I can give you the costs of the project as well. Of course, your files are safe with me. I do everything in my power to protect all your data.
Content translation/proofreading
Once you send the file(s), I get to work on them. Files you may want to get translated may include, but are not limited to:
- In-game content
- Subtitles for videos (in-game, or for marketing purposes)
- Emails to your players, partners, or other associates
- Press releases, or other marketing purposes
- Documentation materials like guidelines for external or internal partners
You get a human-made localization of your content. This way, you can be sure that all my expertise is used. In localization, experience is a huge advantage. Since context is always important for a proper translation, you need to understand how the target language works, but you also need to understand video game lingo to choose the right words.
I am using a modern CAT-tool. This way, I can avoid inconsistencies within the project. The CAT-tool lets me generate a translation memory, and a term base. With a well maintained translation memory and term base, future projects will also be consistent with your earlier localizations.
Even though I graduated with a master’s degree in German studies, typos are inevitable. They happen to the best occasionally. That is why your translation will be proofread.
As soon as your project is taken care of, I will let you know about it in an email. This email will contain a link to LinguaLizard’s payment page. You can pay right away, and download the localized file(s).
During the localization process there might be questions to clarify the context. Often I will be able to figure out the situation on my own. But sometimes I will need your help. Therefore, there will be some back and forth between us. I can set up a Google spreadsheet where I add my questions. You can then take a look at it, and answer them whenever it is most convenient for you. This has proven as an efficient method. Especially if you are looking for several target languages. This way, every translator is on the same page.
Management
Maybe you will decide that you would rather assemble your very own localization team. If you are expecting to have a constant workload coming in, then this might be a good idea. This way, you can be sure that your translators know your game and the chosen style will remain the same. Also, it can be more cost-efficient to have your own localization team. I am always open to discussing the best choice for your company.
I can help you set up your own team, and I can also take over the project coordination and the team management for you.
Usually, management tasks are charged on an hourly basis.
Localization QA
Once the localized text is uploaded to your game, you may want to have it checked. I am used to checking games for typos, misspellings, and functional issues. I pay close attention to detail, and LQA will give your game the final polishing.
Usually, LQA is charged on an hourly basis.
