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Is there a difference between translating a document and translating a web site?
Does the computer language or computer program I am using affect the translation of my web site?
Why do some people choose to have "mirror" sites instead of combining languages into a more interactive site?
Why are issues related to translation becoming more important?
What is localization?

ABOUT WEB SITE TRANSLATION

Is there a difference between translating a document and translating a web site?
Web site translation and document translation are similar. However, web site translations involve  issues that a standard document translation does not. Issues such as design, multi-media functions, localization and multi-language management must be addressed. Special concerns such as audio and video files must be considered. Long term plans for the management of the interactivity of the web site must be implemented.   

Does the computer language or computer program I am using affect the translation of my web site?
The programming languages used to create your web site are not generally affected by the translation of your web site. Just as you can change words in your web site, you can change the languages of your words. However, special software may be needed to read double-byte languages such as Chinese and Russian.   

Why do some people choose to have "mirror" sites instead of combining languages into a more interactive site?
A mirror site is an exact duplicate of a site, except it is translated. Mirror sites are the easiest to manage and control. You can develop the original site and the mirror site together, or they can be easily separated so special attention can be paid to localization and cultural concerns.

Why are issues related to translation becoming more important?
The need for translation will continue to grow as borders disappear and the world becomes smaller. The need to communicate with other cultures in other languages will become mandatory for every business that wants to succeed. Those who want to travel, to explore the world and to find the best prices and services will have to consider translation. Languages that are prominent today, will be less so in the coming years. Communication will remain important, and communication equals language!   

What is localization?
Localization is the act of adapting something for a specific region or culture, thereby making it culturally correct and allowing it to be understood by a specific group of people. The same experience should be had reading an original document as reading its translation. This is one of the most important aspects of translation. Words can be translated, but that does not mean that they will be understood. Everything translated needs to be put into terms that a person or a culture can understand. An everyday example of this could be the way you are introduced to a food you do not know. The food is described and compared to a food you know. The food description is localized to a level you understand.