Translation vs. Localization: What’s the Difference?

Training multilingual and global employees 

As a training specialist, you may already be aware of the critical role translation plays in helping multilingual employees understand course content. However, you may have also recently noticed an increased emphasis on “localization,” leading to questions like: What is localization? What’s the difference between translation and localization? And, more importantly, which approach best suits our workforce training needs? 

Get quick answers to these questions and more below as we delve into translation vs. localization and how each impacts training effectiveness. 

Course translation vs. localization: Key differences

How does the translation process differ from the localization process?

In short, translation adapts text to the target language, whereas localization tailors the entire learning experience to the target culture.

When training materials are translated, they’re converted from one language to another—often word-for-word—so learners can understand the core content in their native language. While this is helpful for comprehension, it doesn’t account for cultural differences, like syntax or idioms, that may affect the training’s relevance or relatability to your target audience.

E-learning localization, on the other hand, transforms the greater training experience to fit the cultural, linguistic, and social expectations of your target market. This means adjusting not only the language but also the tone, references, and visual elements to align with the learner’s cultural context. 

TLDR: While translation prioritizes understandability, localization enhances both relevance and relatability for a truly global learning experience.

What’s an example of translation vs. localization?

Translation might involve converting English text to Spanish while retaining the same format and structure. Beyond translation, localization might also involve adapting the course for Spanish-speaking regions, modifying cultural references, changing date formats, and aligning visuals and terminology with regional preferences.

Benefits of localization vs. limitations of translation 

While translation meets the basic need for language accessibility, it often falls short when it comes to fostering engagement across a diverse workforce. Localization, however, accounts for the full spectrum of the learner experience, incorporating culturally relevant adaptations that make the content meaningful for a global audience.

Here are a few elements that can be customized in localized content:

• Cultural references. Adjust any examples or case studies to reflect the target culture.
• Language terminology. Use idioms and terminology that make sense in your target language. 
• Number formats. Convert dates, currencies, and units of measurement to match regional norms.
• Navigation and layout. Accommodate text flow and direction, such as adjusting for right-to-left languages.
• Visuals and symbols. Use images, icons, and colors that align with cultural meanings and avoid potential misunderstandings.

These adaptations create a training experience that feels personally relevant to learners, increasing the likelihood of engagement and retention.

Does my employee training require translation or localization?

When deciding between translation and localization, consider your workforce’s demographics and your training goals. Translation may be sufficient if you’re addressing language barriers for a multilingual workforce within the same region. For example, if you have a large segment of Spanish-speaking employees in the United States, translating the material into Spanish may be effective.

However, if your employees span multiple countries with varied cultures, or if your workforce is multinational, localization is likely a better fit. Localization is essential when training a global workforce because it ensures that content not only reaches employees but also resonates with them. 

Localize e-learning courses for best results

The bottom line? If you’re looking for the best way to train culturally and linguistically diverse employees, then e-learning localization is the answer. This enhanced approach enables training specialists to break down both language and cultural barriers, supporting a truly inclusive and effective training program for a global workforce.

Want to explore tips on how to train your global workforce with e-learning localization? Gain strategies to start preparing your localization strategy today.