Foolproof Tips in Creating a Localization Strategy this 2024

Michael Gallagher

Posted in Zoom Sep 6 · 7 Sep, 2022

Foolproof Tips in Creating a Localization Strategy this 2024

What Is a Localization Strategy?

A localization strategy is a plan that helps a business adapt its products, content, and messaging for different languages and cultures. Instead of offering the same material worldwide, businesses modify their websites, ads, and materials to fit local customs, language, and expectations.

Update images and tone to match local preferences
Adjust subject matter to connect with region-specific audiences
Translate content and adapt it to fit local culture

This approach makes it easier for companies to build trust and improve customer experience in new markets.

Why Localization Strategy Matters for Global Businesses

Without a strong localization strategy, even the best products can fail in new markets. A well-made strategy brings together teams across the company—from executives to developers and marketers—to deliver a consistent message.

Executives can set goals and approve resources
Marketers make sure campaigns are relevant
Developers update websites and apps for various languages

For example, Asana's global growth increased after the company offered its app in more languages (VentureBeat, 2017). Businesses of any size benefit from thinking systematically about localization early.

8 Tips for Developing an Effective Localization Strategy

1. Plan Ahead for Growth

Think about localization before launching products or entering new markets. Early planning makes it easier to meet customer needs later.

Create buyer profiles for each region
Develop messages that fit local cultures
Write source material that can be easily translated for different audiences

2. Ask Key Questions Before Localizing

Successful localization starts with understanding your business goals and market potential.

What phase is your business in right now?
Will you localize specific messages, product pages, or entire campaigns?
Does your global expansion rely on localization as a core part of marketing?

Companies often begin with a small pilot, testing limited markets before committing more resources (MarTech, 2023). Review early feedback and use it to refine your approach.

3. Localize Your Website and Digital Assets

Your website may be the first impression for many international customers. Prioritize sections to be translated, then plan how to adapt key features and branding.

Decide which languages and regions to target first
Revise branding, taglines, and logos for local relevance
Use professional translation services to ensure accuracy
Optimize content for local search engines

These steps form the basis of a practical localization strategy that grows with your business.

4. Foster Inclusive Localization

Localization isn't just about language—it's about respecting local values and customs. Focus on providing an experience that feels familiar to every user.

Follow local grammar and etiquette in translations
Address cultural nuances, like honorifics or naming conventions
Test forms and features for local naming, addresses, and preferences

Even small touches—like allowing multiple middle names in forms—can make new customers feel included.

5. Personalize Customer Experiences

Personalization helps users connect with your brand. In a 2023 survey, 75% of marketers said personalization is key to engaging customers (MarTech, 2023). Yet, 60% found it challenging.

Use the local language for all customer interactions
Customize offers and messaging based on local data
Rely on human translation services for accuracy and culture fit

6. Integrate Localization Into Design

Plan for localization early in your product or website design stages. Testing layouts with translated content can prevent design problems before launch.

Create prototypes in multiple languages with tools like Figma
Check for text overflow and display issues on various devices
Include diverse images and culturally relevant graphics from the start

Withings increased localized feature delivery by 90% after adding localization to its early design process (Lokalise, 2023).

7. Document Your Localization Plan

Keep a clear and detailed style guide for translators and team members. Documentation boosts consistency and saves time on future updates.

Outline brand voice, key phrases, and tone
List industry terms and preferred translations
Specify grammar, design, and layout guidelines

Well-documented localization helps multiple translators work together smoothly and maintain your brand identity.

8. Build Accountability Across Teams

Everyone at your company should contribute to a successful localization strategy. Train all departments—from development to executive leadership—on localization tools and best practices.

Involve designers in image and layout selection for each market
Update developers on internationalization needs
Educate marketers and support teams about local trends and customer expectations

This team approach keeps your localization strategy relevant and effective.

Steps to Build a Localization Strategy That Works

Design your localization strategy to adapt as your business evolves. Regular team check-ins and realistic goals keep your efforts on track.

Use an agile workflow for translation and updates
Include translators at each development cycle, not only at the end
Test changes in real-time as you expand into new markets

Many successful businesses use this flow:

Submit files for translation to GoTranscript
Translate and review content
Have business teams approve the localization
Publish in target markets

Automating some steps can save time. For high accuracy, rely on AI-powered transcription services paired with expert review.

How to Measure Your Localization Success

Once your localization strategy is live, track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate your returns:

Keyword ranking in new regions
Cost of translations vs. increased sales
Growth in market share for localized products
Website traffic from targeted countries
Conversion rates before and after localization
Social media engagement and local brand mentions
Number of local language customer support requests

Use these metrics to guide future localization decisions and improve your strategy over time.

Conclusion: Partner With Experts for Your Localization Needs

Localization makes your brand accessible and appealing in global markets. Careful adaptation of content, design, and support builds trust and loyalty with new customers.

When expanding worldwide, ensure translations are both accurate and culturally relevant. GoTranscript's text translation services connect you with professional translators for top-quality results.