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Localization Essentials

Christina Hayek and Svein Hermansen

Localization is about making a product feel tailored to users around the world. Specifically, it is the process of adapting a product to a language, culture and market.

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What's inside

Syllabus

In this lesson, we’ll talk about the history of localization broadly and at Google. We’ll explore the power of localization and cover key concepts and definitions you’ll need throughout the course.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for both those with prior knowledge and newcomers to the topic, this course takes a generalist approach to localization
Experienced industry professionals who teach the course
The course concentrates on providing a series of well-organized steps to prepare for the launch and execution of localization projects
Ideal for those interested in roles at Google
Covers the fundamentals and the nitty gritty of localization
Includes interviews with industry professionals

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to localization essentials

According to students, this course provides a largely positive and solid foundation for those new to the localization industry. Learners praise its clear explanations of key concepts and processes, making complex topics accessible. The inclusion of insights from Google professionals and discussions on career roles is frequently highlighted as a major strength, offering a valuable real-world perspective. While it serves as an excellent introductory overview, some learners noted it could benefit from more practical, hands-on examples or deeper dives into specific tools, especially for those with prior experience. Overall, it's seen as a well-structured resource for career exploration.
Ideal for newcomers, less so for experienced professionals.
"As an experienced translator looking to move into localization project management, I found this course a bit too basic."
"It feels more like a general introduction for complete beginners rather than 'essentials' for someone already in the language industry."
"Good course for beginners to grasp the fundamental concepts and the ecosystem of localization."
"The course is okay as a very basic introduction. It rehashed a lot of what I already knew from general industry articles."
Logical flow with clear definitions and useful resources.
"The structure is logical, and the glossary is a valuable resource."
"A well-structured and highly informative course for anyone new to localization. The modules flow logically, and the definitions are precise."
"The course covers everything from historical context to modern project management workflows."
"It clearly defines terms and processes."
Offers valuable real-world perspectives from industry experts.
"The insights from Google professionals were a highlight, giving a realistic view of career paths."
"I particularly appreciated the module on different roles in localization; it helped me understand where my skills could fit."
"The insights into Google's approach and the roles within the industry were very beneficial."
"The information on Google's specific workflow was helpful, but too little to justify the whole course."
Provides a strong introductory overview of localization.
"This course provides a really solid foundation for understanding the localization industry."
"Absolutely essential for anyone considering a career in localization."
"Fantastic introductory course! It gave me a clear understanding of the entire localization process from start to finish."
"Good course for beginners to grasp the fundamental concepts and the ecosystem of localization."
More theoretical; could benefit from hands-on examples.
"My only wish is that it covered more practical, hands-on examples of using CAT tools..."
"It's a good high-level overview, but it didn't offer the deep dive into tools or advanced strategies I was hoping for."
"I was looking for something more practical. While the overview of the industry and roles was fine, I felt it lacked actionable advice on *how* to do localization."
"I expected more practical content, perhaps case studies or detailed tool demonstrations."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Localization Essentials with these activities:
Review concepts from General and Software Engineering
Refresh your knowledge of engineering fundamentals to ensure you have a strong foundation for this course.
Browse courses on Software Engineering
Show steps
  • Read through your old textbooks
  • Review your old notes
  • Retake old quizzes and exams
Identify a mentor in the field of localization
Seek guidance and support from experienced professionals in the field to enhance your learning journey.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn or other platforms
  • Attend industry events and conferences
Join a localization study group or community
Connect with other students and professionals in the field of localization to exchange knowledge and best practices.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Join online forums and discussion groups
  • Participate in meetups and events
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Participate in online tutorials and workshops
Supplement your learning with online tutorials and workshops to reinforce the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Follow along with video tutorials
  • Participate in online forums and discussions
  • Attend webinars and online workshops
Create a localization glossary
Develop a comprehensive glossary of localization terms and concepts to enhance your understanding.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Compile a list of key terms and concepts
  • Define each term and concept clearly
  • Include examples and illustrations to aid understanding
Translate and localize sample user interfaces or documents
Reinforce your understanding of localization techniques by practicing on sample user interfaces or documents.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Find sample user interfaces or documents
  • Translate and localize the content
  • Review your work and identify areas for improvement
Develop a localization plan for a specific product
Apply the concepts of localization to a real-world scenario by creating a comprehensive localization plan.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Identify the target markets and languages
  • Determine the localization strategy
  • Develop a budget and timeline
  • Create a style guide and glossary
Participate in localization competitions or hackathons
Test your skills and knowledge by participating in localization competitions or hackathons.
Browse courses on Localization
Show steps
  • Find relevant competitions and hackathons
  • Form a team or participate individually
  • Develop a solution or project
  • Present your work and compete for prizes

Career center

Learners who complete Localization Essentials will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Localization Engineer
Localization Engineers are responsible for adapting products and services to different languages and cultures. This course can help you build a foundation in localization by teaching you the history of localization, the different types of content that can be localized, and the tools and technologies used in localization. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Localization Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Localization Engineer
Internationalization Engineer
Internationalization Engineers are responsible for designing and developing products and services that can be easily localized. This course can help you build a foundation in internationalization by teaching you the principles of internationalization, the different types of internationalization challenges, and the tools and technologies used in internationalization. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as an Internationalization Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Internationalization Engineer
Translation Project Manager
Translation Project Managers are responsible for managing the translation of products and services into different languages. This course can help you build a foundation in translation project management by teaching you the different stages of a translation project, the different types of translation resources, and the tools and technologies used in translation project management. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Translation Project Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translation Project Manager
Localization Manager
Localization Managers are responsible for overseeing the localization of products and services. This course can help you build a foundation in localization management by teaching you the different aspects of localization management, the different types of localization teams, and the tools and technologies used in localization management. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Localization Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Localization Manager
Global Marketing Manager
Global Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns for products and services that are sold in different countries. This course can help you build a foundation in global marketing by teaching you the different aspects of global marketing, the different types of global marketing campaigns, and the tools and technologies used in global marketing. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Global Marketing Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Global Marketing Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for developing and managing products and services. This course can help you build a foundation in product management by teaching you the different aspects of product management, the different types of product teams, and the tools and technologies used in product management. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Product Manager. This course may be particularly relevant to Product Managers who are responsible for products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Software Engineer
Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing software. This course can help you build a foundation in software engineering by teaching you the different aspects of software engineering, the different types of software engineering teams, and the tools and technologies used in software engineering. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Software Engineer. This course may be particularly relevant to Software Engineers who are responsible for developing software that is sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers are responsible for writing documentation for products and services. This course can help you build a foundation in technical writing by teaching you the different aspects of technical writing, the different types of technical writing documents, and the tools and technologies used in technical writing. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Technical Writer. This course may be particularly relevant to Technical Writers who are responsible for writing documentation for products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designers are responsible for designing the user interface and user experience of products and services. This course can help you build a foundation in user experience design by teaching you the different aspects of user experience design, the different types of user experience design teams, and the tools and technologies used in user experience design. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a User Experience Designer. This course may be particularly relevant to User Experience Designers who are responsible for designing the user interface and user experience of products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer
Web Developer
Web Developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites. This course can help you build a foundation in web development by teaching you the different aspects of web development, the different types of web development teams, and the tools and technologies used in web development. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Web Developer. This course may be particularly relevant to Web Developers who are responsible for developing websites for products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologists study the culture and behavior of different societies. This course can help you build a foundation in cultural anthropology by teaching you the different aspects of cultural anthropology, the different types of cultural anthropology research, and the tools and technologies used in cultural anthropology. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Cultural Anthropologist. This course may be particularly relevant to Cultural Anthropologists who are interested in working with products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cultural Anthropologist
Global Business Consultant
Global Business Consultants advise businesses on how to expand their operations into new markets. This course can help you build a foundation in global business consulting by teaching you the different aspects of global business consulting, the different types of global business consulting services, and the tools and technologies used in global business consulting. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Global Business Consultant. This course may be particularly relevant to Global Business Consultants who are interested in working with businesses that sell products and services in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Global Business Consultant
International Relations Specialist
International Relations Specialists analyze and interpret political, economic, and social issues that affect relations between countries. This course can help you build a foundation in international relations by teaching you the different aspects of international relations, the different types of international relations organizations, and the tools and technologies used in international relations. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as an International Relations Specialist. This course may be particularly relevant to International Relations Specialists who are interested in working with products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for International Relations Specialist
Multicultural Marketing Specialist
Multicultural Marketing Specialists develop and implement marketing campaigns that are tailored to different cultures. This course can help you build a foundation in multicultural marketing by teaching you the different aspects of multicultural marketing, the different types of multicultural marketing campaigns, and the tools and technologies used in multicultural marketing. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Multicultural Marketing Specialist. This course may be particularly relevant to Multicultural Marketing Specialists who are interested in working with products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Multicultural Marketing Specialist
Translator
Translators convert written or spoken text from one language to another. This course can help you build a foundation in translation by teaching you the different aspects of translation, the different types of translation services, and the tools and technologies used in translation. You will also learn about the skills and experience that are required for a successful career as a Translator. This course may be particularly relevant to Translators who are interested in working with products and services that are sold in different countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translator

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Localization Essentials.
Language, Identity and Performance -...
Save
A comprehensive resource exploring the complex relationship between language and globalization, providing a rich understanding of its impact on communication, identity, and society.
Language, Identity and Performance -...
Paperback
Check
Language, Identity and Performance -...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introducing Translation Studies
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of translation, with a focus on the challenges and opportunities of translating for the global market. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about translation.
Introducing Translation Studies
Paperback
$$
Introducing Translation Studies: Theories and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Global Marketing
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of global marketing strategies, with a focus on adapting marketing campaigns to different cultural contexts and global markets.
Global Marketing
Kindle Edition
$$$
Global Marketing
Paperback
$$
Global Marketing (8th Edition)
Paperback
$$$$
Global Marketing Plus MyLab Marketing with Pearson...
Paperback
$$$$
Global Marketing
Paperback
$$$
Global Marketing Management
Hardcover
$$$
Global Marketing
Paperback
$$
MyLab Marketing with Pearson eText -- Access Card -...
Misc. Supplies
$$
Global Marketing, Student Value Edition (8th...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Global Marketing By Keegan & Green (5th, Fifth...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Contra Instrumentalism
Save
Collection of essays on translation theory and practice. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the different approaches to translation.
Contra Instrumentalism
Paperback
Check
Contra Instrumentalism
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Rethinking Evidence in the Time of Pandemics
Save
Comprehensive overview of the field of translation studies, covering topics such as the history of translation, the different theories of translation, and the different applications of translation. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about translation studies.
Rethinking Evidence in the Time of Pandemics:...
Hardcover
$$
Rethinking Evidence in the Time of Pandemics:...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Empiricism and the Early Theory of the Novel
Save
Practical guide to translation, covering topics such as the different types of translation, the different techniques of translation, and the different tools and resources available to translators. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the practice of translation.
Empiricism and the Early Theory of the Novel:...
Paperback
$$$
Empiricism and the Early Theory of the Novel:...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Diagnostic Imaging: Oral and Maxillofacial E-Book
Save
Guide to localization, covering topics such as the different types of localization, the different tools and technologies used in localization, and the different challenges facing localizers. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the practice of localization.
Diagnostic Imaging: Oral and Maxillofacial E-Book
Kindle Edition with Audio/Video
$$$$

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Course image
Effort
5 hours
Via
Udacity
Instructors
Christina Hayek
Svein Hermansen
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for both those with prior knowledge and newcomers to the topic, this course takes a generalist approach to localization
Experienced industry professionals who teach the course
The course concentrates on providing a series of well-organized steps to prepare for the launch and execution of localization projects
Ideal for those interested in roles at Google
Covers the fundamentals and the nitty gritty of localization
Includes interviews with industry professionals
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