Translation and Localization

In the field of language services, there are two concepts of services: "translation" and "localization".

Mahana Corporation provides not only translation services, but also localization of the websites by our local Japanese experts without using any translation tools.

So, what are the differences between them?

"Translation" and "Localization" are often used interchangeably. There are some similarities between them, but there are also essential differences. Many customers’ needs are getting the website "localized", and they look at the translation companies for help. However, the lack of understanding of "translation" and "localization" greatly affects the communication between the service company and the target audience.

What is translation?

Translation is defined as the process of transferring content from one language to another. The text is expressed word by word, with emphasis on grammar and vocabulary. Frankly speaking, translation is the conversion of meaning between two different languages. These two languages can be different languages of two countries, or two dialects of one country, or even ancient languages to modern languages.

However, translation focuses on translating the meaning of the original language directly and accurately into another language. Depending on the service/technology you choose, the translation may or may not consider cultural differences and idioms in the text.

Translation is usually performed by a combination of translators and translation machines to ensure both accuracy and efficiency.

What is localization?

Localization goes a step further than translation. It is defined as a more comprehensive process of adjusting the content for new language and cultural audiences.

Localization involves translation, but its goal is broader -- to make the content feels like as it is created specifically for a targeting market.

For example, the translation of a website may be the translation of the content from Japanese to English, but other information that needs to be changed is not included in the translation process. The process of website localization is different. In addition to changing languages, localization focuses more on converting other aspects of content. For example, convert the original currency from Japanese Yen to local currency; update the original address and date to local time; consider whether the local users have a "left to right" reading habit.

In short, website localization is to adjust the content and layout of the website from all aspects according to local culture and technical preferences.

Get your website localized into Japanese

Our recent study shows that more than 99% of the customers from Japan look at websites in Japanese only, not in English. This means, by not having your website in Japanese, a large opportunity to do business with Japanese customers will slip away.

So why don't you have your website localized into Japanese now?