Localization in Translation

Localization is everywhere in our digital world, from apps to websites or games. Our interconnected digital world functions in part thanks to invisible localization processes that allow global users to engage with all sorts of digital content and products. This textbook presents a comprehensive overview of the main theoretical, practical, and methodological issues related to localization, the technological, textual, communicative, and cognitive process by which interactive digital texts are prepared to be used in contexts other than those of production.

Localization in Translation provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the main practical and theoretical issues involved in localizing software, web, video games, and apps. It discusses the many technological, cultural, linguistic, quality, economic, accessibility, and user-reception issues related to the different localization types. It also provides an updated overview of localization in an ever-changing technological landscape marked by advances in neural machine translation and AI. Each chapter includes a basic summary, key questions, a final section with discussion and assignments, as well as additional readings. Online resources with additional questions and assignments are included on the Routledge Translation Studies portal.

This is the essential textbook for advanced undergraduates and graduates in translation studies and translation professionals engaged in localization practice.

Miguel Jiménez-Crespo has already established himself as the go-to expert for web localization, but with this new book, he offers insights into localization on a broader scale, taking in not only the web but also software, video games and apps. What?s more, he does not shy away from exploring the complex relationships between localization and pressing issues such as accessibility, sustainability, and generative large language models (LLMs). No other resource offers such a comprehensive and up-to-date investigation of the theory and practice of localization in all its forms, making this a must-read for translation students or professionals seeking to add localization work to their repertoire. - Lynne Bowker, University of Ottawa, Canada

This book by Miguel Jiménez-Crespo updates and builds on his previous writings that have become standard resources on localization. Not only is this an in-depth and timely volume, the layout and format are ideal for a university module. The comprehensive overview, breadth of research cited, and novel content  combine to make this a key reading on localization for novice and expert readers. - Joss Moorkens, Dublin City University, Ireland

In this book, Miguel Ángel Jiménez-Crespo unravels the concept of localization, masterfully exploring the nuances of adapting content for diverse media, be it software, websites, mobile apps, or video games. The author also provides insight into the latest developments in the field, such as Large Language Models (LLMs), Artificial Intelligence and Green Localization, and proposes future research avenues. Theoretical and practical insights, real-world examples, and expert tips make this a comprehensive companion for translation students and researchers, as well as novice and seasoned professionals in the realm of localization - Carme Mangiron, Universitat Aut?noma de Barcelona, Spain