In today’s fast-paced global economy, businesses need to be able to rapidly adapt their products, services, and messaging for international markets. Traditional translation workflows that take weeks or months are simply too slow. Companies must embrace agile translation to keep up with changing market conditions and customer demands around the world.
So what exactly is agile translation? It’s a process that applies the principles of the agile software development methodology to localization and translation projects. This means working in short iteration cycles, maintaining a constant feedback loop, promoting continuous collaboration between teams, and quickly responding to shifting requirements.
Here are some key ways to build an agile translation capability for your organization:
Use Cloud-Based Translation Tools The right technology platform is critical for agile translation. Cloud-based translation management systems allow globally distributed teams to work simultaneously on translation projects in real-time. Look for tools with features like machine translation, translation memory, terminology management, and easy ways to handle updates and make corrections on the fly.
Streamline Processes with Automation Manual, fragmented translation workflows introduce delays and risks. Automate as many steps as possible in your process, from content ingestion to leveraging past translations to file formatting. The less human touchpoints, the faster things will move while maintaining quality.
Build Localization into Development
Don’t wait until a product or campaign is completely finished to start translation. Embed localization paralegally from the initial stages of development by implementing continuous localization practices. This allows translation to happen concurrently alongside builds.
Foster a Collaborative Mindset Agile translation requires close cooperation between cross-functional teams spanning tech writers, developers, marketers, localization experts, and translators. Tear down organizational silos and encourage constant communication. Implement tools that provide visibility into the full translation supply chain.
Iterate and Continuously Improve The essence of agile is continuously improving through short iteration cycles. Frequently re-evaluate your translation processes, look for bottlenecks, and make incremental adjustments to increase speed and quality. Leverage analytics to measure progress towards your goals.
In the fast-moving global marketplace, those companies that can quickly deliver localized product and messaging to international audiences will have a significant competitive advantage. Implementing agile translation processes and technology will help future-proof your business for sustained international growth.