LSP Meaning: Here’s Your Guide to Localization and Translation Acronyms 101

Decoding LSP Meaning and Industry Acronyms: A Practical Guide for Global Businesses

If you want to expand your business worldwide, you may encounter many new terms from translation and localization companies. Understanding these acronyms is key for smooth global growth. This guide explains important industry terms so you can work confidently with a language service provider (LSP).

Core Acronyms in Localization and Translation

G11N – Globalization

Globalization (shorthand: g11n) is the process of making your business accessible on a global scale. This means adapting your brand, products, and messaging to reach customers outside your home country.

• G11n stands for the first and last letter of "globalization" with 11 letters in-between.
• It involves understanding worldwide markets, regulations, and cultures.
• Global e-commerce sales reached $5.8 trillion in 2023 and are expected to grow (Statista, 2023).

I18N – Internationalization

Internationalization (i18n) prepares your product or content to be easily adapted for various languages or regions.

• I18n stands for the first and last letter of "internationalization" with 18 letters in-between.
• This step comes before localization and often involves building flexible software or content templates.

L10N – Localization

Localization (l10n) means adapting content or products for a specific local market, focusing on cultural fit and language.

• L10n stands for "localization" with 10 letters in-between.
• This covers translations, date formats, currencies, images, and customs.
• Well-localized products see up to 1.5x higher user engagement (CSA Research, 2020).

T9N – Translation

Translation (t9n) is the process of converting text from one language into another.

• T9n stands for "translation" with 9 letters in-between.
• Professional translation ensures your message stays accurate and culturally appropriate.

If you need help, consider professional text translation services.

GILT – Globalization, Internationalization, Localization, Translation

GILT puts these four essential steps together. Businesses often follow this sequence to succeed in new markets.

• Globalization: Planning for global reach
• Internationalization: Making systems adaptable
• Localization: Customizing for local needs
• Translation: Language conversion

LSP – Language Service Provider

A language service provider (LSP) is a company specializing in translation, localization, and related services.

• LSPs offer services like transcription, document translation, and linguistic advice.
• They help companies communicate with global audiences.
• Outsourcing to LSPs can save time and improve quality.

MLV & SLV – Multiple vs. Single Language Vendors

• MLV (Multiple Language Vendor): Offers translations for many languages or combinations.
• SLV (Single Language Vendor): Specializes in one language pair only (like English to Spanish).

MLVs are helpful for businesses needing to localize content for several regions at once.

SL/TL – Source Language / Target Language

• SL (Source Language): The language you start with.
• TL (Target Language): The language you want the content in.

For example, if you're translating from English to Japanese, English is the SL, and Japanese is the TL.

MT – Machine Translation

Machine translation (MT) uses computers and AI to translate text quickly between languages.

• Popular tools include Google Translate and DeepL.
• MT saves time but may lack accuracy for complex projects.

Businesses can use automated transcription or AI transcription subscriptions for speed.

TMS – Translation Management System

A translation management system automates and manages localization projects, tracking tasks and storing translations.

• Helps organize teams spread across the world.
• Boosts efficiency and keeps projects on track.

OPI – Over-the-Phone Interpretation

OPI services allow real-time voice interpretation between speakers of different languages over the phone.

• Useful for meetings, customer support, or negotiations.

CMS – Content Management System

• CMS platforms like WordPress, Wix, and Drupal help businesses create and manage websites.
• Choose a CMS that supports localization plugins and easy translation workflows.

SEO – Search Engine Optimization

SEO is the process that makes your website visible in search engines like Google.

• Using translated and localized keywords helps reach different audiences.

You can optimize content further with closed caption services and accurate subtitling services.

CAT – Computer-Aided Translation

Computer-aided translation tools help human translators be efficient and consistent.

• Unlike MT, CAT tools rely on humans, using machines as support.
• Popular for ensuring high-quality and accurate translations.

TM – Translation Memory

Translation memory (TM) stores previously translated sentences for future use.

• Improves consistency across projects.
• Saves time for repetitive content.

LE – Localization Engineer

A localization engineer manages the technical side of preparing digital content for translation and integration.

• Ensures that software and websites are localization-ready.

LQA & LQC – Linguistic Quality Assurance & Control

• LQA: Checks processes to prevent errors in translation.
• LQC: Finds and fixes errors after translation.

DNT – Do Not Translate

Certain terms, like brand names, should not be translated to avoid mistakes and preserve brand identity.

MTPE – Machine Translation Post-Editing

After machine translation, human translators review and refine text for accuracy—a service offered by many LSPs.

• This process ensures final content meets quality standards.

SG – Style Guide

A style guide sets clear rules for tone, language, formatting, and branding across languages.

• Ensures consistency and professionalism for global content.

TEP – Translation, Editing, and Proofreading

• Translation: Converting text to the target language.
• Editing: Checking for accuracy, style, and clarity.
• Proofreading: Fixing errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Only human linguists can fully manage TEP workflows. Consider professional proofreading services to ensure high-quality results.

Bringing It All Together

Understanding the “LSP meaning” and these common acronyms helps you communicate clearly with your localization and translation partners. This foundation ensures your business can reach and connect with customers across the world.

For any translation, localization, transcription, or global communication needs, GoTranscript offers reliable, easy-to-use solutions. Whether you need audio translation or want to check transcription pricing and captioning rates, our platform covers every step. Ready to start? Order your transcription or order captions now.