Multilingual e-learning localization is the conversion of e-learning content into different languages at the same time. Such an enterprise requires a colossal effort in coordination and management.
A Herculean Task
Each localization project has several stages, interspersed by checks and reviews and innumerable micro-processes in the workflow. Multiplying each of these over several languages is a herculean task. It calls for challenging skills on the part of the project manager, in terms of understanding of language, people as well as workflow management.
As a leading e-learning localization provider in Europe and India, we were approached by a client and commissioned a task of translating their e-learning tutorials. The company has operations in several countries of Europe, Asia and India. The project involved the conversion from English into 15 world languages.
The tutorials served as training modules for new recruits. They were being developed to reduce the dependency on trainers and substitute them with a repository of graded tutorials.
Task Requirement
Our project management team analysed the requirement in direct consultation with the client. They identified the following aspects that required localization.
- Text Translation:
- central display text, coupled with diagrams and animations
- text for reference (for reading in the sidebar)
- text for narration
- Subtitles: The tutorials also comprised video documentaries. While some had to be subtitled, others had to be dubbed with voiceover in the respective language.
- Narration: The translated narration scripts were to be rendered to a narrator’s voice in each language. The narration was to be synchronised with the accompanying on-screen displays.
- Integration & Testing
Process
First, the content was to be translated . Next the subtitles for the video documentaries were to be created, timed and integrated. Simultaneously, the narration script would be recorded to create audio files. Subsequently, the content created in every target language would undergo a client review before integration.
The process is summarised in sequential representation below.
- Translation
- Queries
- Glossary
- Resolutions
- Revision
- Subtitling
- Client Validation
- Feedback
- Revision
- Voiceover
- Audio Script
- Recording
- Checking and Revision
- Handover to Localization Team
- Integration & Synchronization
- On-Screen Text
- On-Screen Animation
- Integration of Audio Files
- Testing
- Checking, Feedback and Corrections
More information about localization process can be read here:
This required coordination with fifteen counterparts of the various branches of the client, and fifteen language teams, comprising translators, reviewers and voiceover artistes. This herculean task presented several difficulties.
Challenges in Multilingual Localization
Identifying & Hiring Translators and Linguists
The first step is to identify linguists who can do the work. There are different linguistic tasks involved – translation, editing, script editing and voiceover. Identifying the right match for each of the tasks for fifteen languages is nothing short of a feat. It’s a gamble of sorts, as not all linguists are known to the project manager.
The capabilities of each linguist are known by reference and past experience only. Hiring them, and assigning the contract is a matter of immense responsibility.
Read related article: Who Qualifies as a Good Translator.
Standardizing Processes across Language Teams
The process for localization is inherently complex. Each project will demand, and each organisation will adapt and develop unique processes over time. The work style and process flow of the client may not foresee the issues faced by the localization team. To adapt and communicate with the client is an important milestone in the healthy development of our own process, to align, streamline and leverage areas of efficiency.
Defining Processes, Instructions and Guidelines
Every sub-process of the larger process requires clear definition. At the conceptual stage, it pays that all expectations be translated into carefully drafted and easy-to-understand instructions. This ensures not only compliance but also consistency of execution across all language teams. The possibility of error is also reduced considerably.
When defining instructions for a multilingual e-learning localization project, the following mantras are to bear in mind.
- simplification – despite the complexities and detailing in the global requirement of the project.
- reduction – summarise and avoid too many repetitions and details – and yet be able to orientate the linguist to the larger goal and direction of the task.
- unitisation – classify and contain instructions within logical sections.
- sequence and progression – systematise and structure instructions in a step-by-step format to facilitate ease of comprehension.
If the above principles are applied while drafting process documents, we can bring in greater clarity, remove ambiguity, and reduce effort during execution and tracking. Confusion is avoided and rework is averted.
Diverse Cultures – Diverse Communication Abilities
After having defined the instructions, it is a task to ensure that all language teams have understood them. In order to simplify instructions, it is not only necessary to draft instructions in simple English as we understand it, but also to make sure that the words and phrases we choose are understood correctly. Different countries have different variations of the English language, and interpret idiomatic expressions differently.
It takes a great deal of effort and attention to ensure that translators and linguists understand correctly the nitty-gritties of the instructions. Once shared, there needs to be a process of feedback in an interaction to recognise that the understanding of the instructions matches the intended message.
Cross-Language & Cross-Function Coordination
The challenge of such a project is that we have multiple teams, one for every language. And in every team has to execute multiple functions. This means that the coordinator has to multiply his efforts and find a way to keep track of each stage in each language team. This can be a perplexing exercise.
Multi-Team Management
Managing People, Capabilities & Limitations
a. Temperaments of linguists
Each human being is different and has his own strengths and limitations. The skills of a linguist are rare. While managing their expertise, one also needs to manage idiosyncrasies of personality and working style. A keen project manager will need to be attuned to the needs, expectations and pace of the translator.
While some translators are more accommodating, others can have strong opinions on matters and may be averse to suggestions and changes. While some are accommodating, others can be hard to convince. One needs to find solutions of how best to work with and around such constraints.
b. Adaptability & Learning Curve of each Team Member:
The ability to learn, comprehend and follow instructions varies from individual to individual. And the larger the team, the more intricate is the management of the diversity in capabilities. The project manager has the compounded job of bringing each team member to speed.
First, they need to identify deviations and lapses. Next, they must find a way to bridge the gap in understanding. And subsequently, they gently help the linguist see what is expected, and comply with the standards of the project. This calls for sensitivity, tact and restraint.
c. Managing People
The rules of people management apply to every enterprise. All team members expect to be treated respectfully and honoured for their work. It pays to consider and treat team members clients and not employees. Freelance linguists are after all accepting our work, just like a client accepts our service. By making this fundamental change in our approach, we can win their cooperation and enhanced contribution to the project.
Further, we must consider team members as partners in the project, regardless of the nature of engagement. We must provide the translators and other linguists an overview of the entire project. Introduce them to other linguists in the production line and with the translators and linguists of the other language teams.
It pays to have frequent joint meetings to provide orientation and direction. We must provide time and scope for them to share their ideas. Linguists come with rich experience. If we merely treat them like an isolated part within the entire machinery, we lose out on valuable ideas. When treating them as partners, we can bank on their resources, skills and ideas.
Multilingual Localization Management
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Tools, Technology, Knowledge Transfer
CAT (computer aided translation) tools, CMS (content management systems), word processors, spreadsheets, file sharing platforms and many more technologies abound. There are new software coming out each day. Training and exchange of knowledge within the team is essential for consistency and streamlining of the workflow.
Tracking Progress
Monitoring the progress of work at each stage and checking off parameters in a timely fashion are essential in order to avert mishaps. For a project of this complexity to progress and to successfully and meet deadlines, it is important to track the workflow at every stage. Neglect or oversight of any minute step can impact the overall delivery. An efficient tracking method should be developed. It should be simple while encompassing relevant details.
Client Management
Keeping a client satisfied and confident of our capabilities is essential for business.
Keeping the client informed about the progress, and delivering at relevant milestones form part of the project manager’s central functions. The project coordinator functions as a point of contact, and apprises the client of all progress and any contingencies that might emerge.
As a leading e-learning localization company in India, we are proud of a large clientele ranging clients with multinational outreach in the USA, India and Europe.
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