IA, UI, UX and translation services – cooperation with a localisation team

Adapting your application for different languages may start on the information architecture level, be a part of the UX design or may appear later, as an UI translation.

IA, UX, UI… App development and localisation processes

The internationalisation process, especially when we talk about the user-centred design, is best implemented in the early stages – it allows to shorten the time needed for rewriting code (we all know how frustrating and money/time consuming it may be) and it offers you the big picture of how your app is being developed. So when to start the localisation and translation process of your app?

• Information architecture (IA). The point is to design the information flow and access, right? So how does localisation fit in there? Well, it depends on the idea of your app, its usability and a few other factors. For different countries sometimes different approaches are necessary, especially if you want to share diversified content on each market. In this phase language specialists may check if there are crucial differences that may impact the structure with further localisation steps. It will save your time on further steps.

• User experience (UX). This is where users’ habits, needs and expectations are. Also, how the app and the texts inside it will be used by foreign users. Language specialists will help you in preparing consistent terminology, writing great, also marketing, texts, they will advise when localisation may demand some additional preparation (for example different numeric or calendar systems). 

• User interface (UI). When your app is ready to be released in English, it is ready for localisation. Just send strings and context that will tell translators “what does this button do”, in an xml file, and send it to your chosen language vendor. Be ready for an increased flow of new users.

Luca Mascaro. Flickr.

Apps' translation and localisation

Translating your application is a great business decision. It allows your customers to use your product in their native languages, and because of that, your app has a great chance to become a significant part of your users’ everyday life.

Designing an app, on a strategic, informational, graphic and text level requires team work. Mana Translation, a team of Polish language specialists, is happy to assist you in your projects. Let’s introduce your app to the Polish market together.

www.ManaTranslation.com