Real Idea

Localization and internationalization projects are complex. Real Idea has compiled a list of important considerations for any enterprise embarking on such projects.

1. Why is senior management buy-in important?
Senior management buy-in helps these groups become aware of the vital importance and complex processes involved in software localization and internationalization. It also contributes to the morale of enterprise staff assigned to the project and to the project's ultimate success.

2. Why is it important to define project scope and create a schedule at the beginning of a project?
Defining project scope and creating a schedule will help you in resource planning and will assist colleagues and vendors to work with you efficiently. It is important to define project scope and create a schedule for English and international versions of the product.

3. Why is it important to know whether the code and tools have been internationalized?
Because of a lack of multi-byte support, many testing procedures can't be performed until the software code and tools are internationalized-leading to postponement of the project or quality problems in the localize product. If you determine that the code and tools have not been internationalized, it is important to work with an internationalization expert.

4. Should I use different vendors for different languages or one vendor for all languages?
Generally, using fewer vendors saves time and increases efficiency. If, however, your company has a number of ongoing projects, it may be more effective to use different vendors for different languages.

5. What criteria are important in selecting a vendor?
The most important criteria are quality of work, reliability, and experience. Price is also important but should not be at the top of your list. Speak to colleagues who have done similar projects and speak to several vendor-provided references. You may then want to evaluate the vendor's performance on a small 'test' project.

6. What should I provide to potential bidders?
Your RFQ should contain the information necessary for your vendor to derive a project plan, schedule, and initial quotation. Visit our Questions for Enterprise Localization and Internationalization Project Managers for tips on creating your RFQ.

7. What should I expect after issuing an RFQ?
You will normally receive a project plan, schedule, and quotation from each vendor. In
particular, you should receive the vendor's estimated schedule based on the timeframe you have outlined and the vendor's resource availability.

8. What materials will the selected vendor require for a localization project?
You should provide a glossary, a translation style guide, translation memory, test cases, a localization kit, and the necessary specification sheets for tools and desktop publishing ( DTP).

9. What is the best way to check on the vendor's progress?
Stay in close contact with your vendor and thoroughly review weekly progress reports. Carefully monitoring the progress of the project will allow you to address and resolve issues before they become serious problems. It is also important to involve your internal QA resources in localization and internationalization projects.

10. What is the biggest problem associated with localization and internationalization projects?
Ineffective communication. Open communication is the key to the success of any project-allowing you and your vendor to set expectations, clarify misunderstanding, and act on correct assumptions.

Real Idea has discovered that enterprise localization and internationalization managers maintain good communication with vendors but fail to keep internal support groups adequately informed-negatively impacting areas such as version control and tool development. Good internal communication can prevent problems that slow project progress and increase costs.

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