Localization Testing

Localization testing is a way of assuring quality when adapting a website, software, or mobile app in another language. It is performed after localization to ensure that the translated content is correctly and adequately displayed on the user’s screen.

The Benefits of Localization Testing
with Kenaz Translation Agency

How Is Localization Different From Translation?

The term “localization” is often used in IT, web, and engineering. Creating language versions of a product that includes not only text but many different files in various formats is a more complex and sophisticated process than translation alone. Localization involves a complete and detailed transformation of content from one language to another, including UI, graphics, video, technical documentation, and service messages. It requires date, time, and currency formats adaptation to the target country or region. A crucial step in localization is the cultural adaptation of the content based on traditions, attitudes, and other region-specific sensibilities, ensuring the content looks and feels as natural as possible to foreign users.

The Purpose of Localization Testing

Localization services include all of the ТЕР (translate, edit, proof) steps. However, in addition to the linguistic testing of the content performed by proofreaders and editors to ensure there are no grammatical, spelling, or stylistic mistakes, it is vital to assess the end product through a user’s eyes. All translated on-screen elements must fit the specific context and look natural

Example: A company intends to launch its mobile app in a foreign country. The texts, images, UIs, and other materials were translated, but when uploading them in the custom format, it turned out that several pages were missing translations for individual phrases or sentences. Thus, additional translation is needed, which could only be seen at this stage. Or a translated button text turned out to be too long and needs proper adaptation, i.e., decreasing the font size, breaking words into multiple lines, finding a shorter and more elegant translation.

Localization and testing are performed by a team of experts experienced in the specific industry. The team is tasked to:

Analyze the translation integrity and consistency
Assess the visual components and the text they contain
Check the correctness of all data formats, including dates, time, phone numbers, addresses, currencies, and more
Analyze content perception by the foreign audience, keeping the cultural nuances in mind
Evaluate the overall functionality of the localized product on a device screen

After localization testing, the company or the startup may confidently enter the global market to gain foreign users’ trust.

Localization Testing Workflow

How Is Localization Testing Performed?

For the majority of websites, software, mobile and desktop applications, the translation testing includes the following steps:

1. Receiving content from the customer

The client provides the Kenaz expert team access to the localized app, website, or product screenshots. Then, a test plan (a checklist of the necessary actions) is created.

2. Testing and generating a bug report

Any text edits are implemented directly in the localization kit—a localization document containing the texts of the product language versions. Those may include shortening the translation that is too long or displays incorrectly on screen and correcting the translation where it does not fit the context. For more information about software localization, see here.

The bug report contains localization bugs; it is basically a list of all the visual or functional issues that cannot be fixed during the localization testing by making changes in the text. Such bugs may also include recommendations related to localizing date/time formats, grammatical case usage nuances, or gender forms.

3. Regression testing

Based on the bug report and the updated localization file, the client makes the necessary changes to the product. This is followed by regression testing, which helps confirm the incorporation of the required changes and resolution of the visual and functional issues. Thus, the client is reassured of the proper quality of the product language versions. Read our article: Localization Testing—the Final Stage in Creating a High-Quality Product for more information on the localization testing process, types, and common errors.

To order localization testing, contact us in chat or send a message through the contact form. We will be happy to consult you on the process and cost.

Our Team

At Kenaz, our most valuable asset is our employees. We search for our teammates like gold miners, meticulously handpicking adequately qualified applicants. Each team member embodies a commitment to quality and confidentiality, helpfulness, and responsiveness. They are not just experts in their respective fields but also apply a comprehensive approach to every client’s project. The quality of the services we offer and our customers’ satisfaction remain our top priorities!

In our pursuit of excellence, we embrace diversity and inclusivity. At Kenaz, we firmly believe that a great team is built on a foundation of varied perspectives and backgrounds. We stand against discrimination of any kind—be it gender, race, religion, or any other personal attribute. We value our mates for their professional skills, encouraging freedom of expression, and fostering a culture where every voice is heard and respected. Our commitment to diversity is not just a statement—it’s an integral part of who we are and how we work.

Nurturing talent is at the heart of our company culture. We don’t just employ individuals; we invest in their future. We understand that our success is a direct result of their growth and development. Every team member has opportunities for personal enhancement, career progression, and mastering new professional skills. Our environment is one where ideas and initiatives are not just welcomed but are eagerly anticipated. We cultivate a workspace where everyone has the opportunity to excel, contribute, and grow.

Testimonials

We required urgent document translation, and Kenaz delivered high-quality work within a tight deadline. Their customer service was exceptional, making the process smooth and stress-free.

Richard G.

Working with Kenaz for our translation needs has always been a pleasure. Their team is professional, efficient, and always meets deadlines. The quality of translations is excellent.

Laura T.

Kenaz's meticulous approach to app localization testing was a game-changer. They identified nuances that could have been barriers to user engagement. Their expertise is unmatched!

Sarah J.

Kenaz significantly streamlined the localization testing for our smartwatch app, offering detailed and helpful feedback that enhanced user experience.

Michael R.