Segment 33 – Which Languages Do You Speak At Home?

Language and multicultural topics are always an interesting conversational subject in international circles.  From San Francisco to New York to London to Paris to Bangkok to Hong Kong, the international community is rich with diversity from many corners of the world.  Globalization has transplanted families and individuals across the world allowing social integration amongst the foreigners and locals. My life can pretty much be summed up as such...

Segment 32 – Client Satisfaction Survey: The Results Are In! 

The Results Are In!  This blog post is devoted to our beloved clients, with a big “Thank You!” for taking the time to provide valuable feedback regarding our client services.

This March marks the beginning of our third year of operations for HT LOCALIZATION.  We are honored to work with some of the world’s top global brands, as well as some of the most exciting up-and-coming companies that the world will soon get to know. See Testimonials below from a few of our clients...

Segment 31 – Coca-Cola’s “America the Beautiful” Super Bowl Sunday

During this week’s NFL’s Super Bowl’s Sunday game, Coca-Cola debuted the controversial “America the Beautiful” TV commercial featuring majestic American landscapes set to the beautiful “America the Beautiful” song, sung by Americans in 7 different languages.  

According to the Coca-Cola Company, the ad “was created to celebrate Coke moments among all Americans who together enjoy ice-cold, refreshing Coke. The ad provides a snapshot of the real lives of Americans representing diverse ethnicities, religions, races and families, all found in the United States.”  

However, the commercial sparked outrage and controversy throughout the nation.  Some people even began boycotting of Coca-Cola products...

Segment 30 – Happy Chinese New Year! - Are you part Chinese?

The Chinese Lunar Festival, aka Chinese New Year, starts today! Festivities all over the world are ringing in the lunar New Year; the Year of the Horse will be celebrated not only by the Chinese but also by many other Asian and non-Asian cultures.  While much fanfare is within mainland China, no doubt that some of the biggest celebrations are also held outside of China.  Of course in other large Asian cities such as Bangkok, where there is a strong Chinese heritage, but also in Western cities (such as London and Paris), where global businesses are actively wooing Chinese business and visitors...

Segment 29 –Top New Year’s Eve Destinations

As the clock struck 12 this past New Year’s Eve, I looked around at my dear family and friends feverishly gulping down seedless grapes – one by one, trying not to choke, while keeping up with the ringing clock of Puerto del Sol in Madrid.

It was indeed a wonderful sight to see; we weren't the only ones, our Spanish counterparts – grapes in one hand, a flute of cava in the other, all eagerly waiting for the last ring to sound marking the New Year 2014.       I ♥ New Year’s Eve...

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM HT LOCALIZATION!

And we thought last year was great…2013 was even better for HT LOCALIZATION!  Since hanging our "Open for Business" sign a few short years ago, we've had a great time. Not only have we marked the year with exceptional growth, we’ve reached several important milestones that make us proud.

You’ve helped us spread the word about our firm, and we appreciate it. We wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season, and a Happy New Year 2014!

Best Wishes from our family to yours,
The HT LOCALIZATION family 

 Highlights in 2013...

Segment 27 –Everything Is Perfect In The Land Of Beer And Sausages

Typically when I walk around town speaking English with my family or friends, locals hear me; look at me; are either interested in speaking with me; or look away shyly when I say “Hola.”  If there are kids around, they love to speak English with me; their parents are typically pleased with demonstrating their own proficiency in front of their kids.  Sometimes, strangers come up and tell me about their experiences or family member who lives in the U.S. or the U.K.  It’s rather nice, as I might normally not get to know as many interesting people otherwise. 

Recently, I've noticed a changing of the winds…

Segment 26 – My Teacher Says “Ladybird, But She’s Wrong, It’s Really Ladybug”

Press Release Oct 8, 2013 Wyoming, USA - HT LOCALIZATION Announces a New Referral Program: It Pays To Know People

Oct. 8, 2013 - Wyoming, USA - HT LOCALIZATION Announces a New Referral Program: It Pays To Know People

HT LOCALIZATION LLC, an international translation agency has rolled out its New Referral Program: It Pays To Know People. The new program is designed to reward professional and personal relationships in globalization and localization.

The firm’s former referral partner program was only available to select business partners who interacted exclusively within the localization industry. This model has served the industry well; however with social networking on the rise, HT LOCALIZATION has expanded the program to recognize the importance of relationships beyond the traditional B2B channels.

The new referral program offers individuals an incentive to leverage their own professional networks.

“Our best clients are those who have been referred by friends, colleagues, customers, translators and even other translation agencies,” says HT LOCALIZATION, “Good service and word-of-mouth go hand-in-hand.”

HT Localization Referral Program: It Pays To Know People

 Does your company use professional translation services?

Do you know people who want to go global?

Do you have friends in localization?

Are you a translation professional?

The Harry Potter novels by J. K. Rowling have become one of the most widely read children’s literature pieces throughout the world, with nearly 450 million copies sold.  The novels have been translated and published into around 70 distinct languages, as well as distinct adaptations for American English, Valencian and Serbian Cyrillic.

In some countries (ie. Spain and India), the novels have been published into several local languages; and the books have been adapted into variations of the same language (i.e. Portuguese for Brazil and for Portugal, Traditional and Simplified Chinese).

Translations, better yet,  localization into local markets for these novels were somewhat complex due to many challenges, such as rhymes, acronyms, dialects, culture, riddles, jokes, invented words, and plot points that revolve around specific British icons or meanings.

J.K. Rowling invented many words and phrases such as spells, incantations, magical words and place names.  Many of such involve wordplay and historical references very specific to the UK.  In many cases of translations, new words and phrases where invented by the linguists in a manner known as “transliteration”.

One interesting area of challenge relates to the differences between the British and American editions of the books, notably the difference in the titles of the first book: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in the UK, versus Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone in the US.

Segment 25 – Do you have a Love-Hate Relationship with the question “Where Are You From?”

“A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is a person who has spent a significant part of his or her developmental years outside the parents' culture. The TCK frequently builds relationships to all of the cultures, while not having full ownership in any. Although elements from each culture may be assimilated into the TCK's life experience, the sense of belonging is in relationship to others of similar background.” – Dr. David C. Pollock.

I was recently at a friend’s BBQ party with my family. The food was great, the music was lively, the children were having a blast and the most common question one could hear in virtually every corner of the garden was “Where are you from?"...

HT Localization Blog Anniversary! A Year of Language Translations for Real Life

This month marks the first year anniversary of HT Localization’s Blog Series: Language Translations for Real Life - A series articulating multi-lingual influences on the modern life.   

I can’t believe a year has passed since we started this series.   Some might say that…

• Heaven is where the police are British, the cooks are French, the mechanics German, the lovers Italian and it's all organised by the Swiss. 
• Hell is where the chefs are British, the mechanics French, the lover's Swiss, the police German and it's all organised by the Italians.

I remember when we first decided to launch this blog series; we had been living in Spain for about 3 years, being recent expats to this foreign environment with my young family and newly found international friends, every day was a new adventure... 

Segment 23 – More Themes You Just Can’t Find the Words to Translate!

In Segment 11, I wrote about my top 10 favorite difficult to translate themes.  Needless to say, I received lots of feedback, comments and more examples to share.  Thank you my readers for your support and suggestions.  So back by popular demand…a few more Themes You Just Can’t Find the Words to Translate...

Segment 22 – Read This Before You Go On Vacation This Summer!

With summer here, folks all over are preparing for their annual trek across the US, Europe Africa or Asia. 

Last night, as I was having a tinto de verano, with my Spanish friend, who now lives in Lisbon, she says: Amiga, come visit us in Lisboa! Es muy preciosa. La gente are very nice, and they speak many languages there since they don’t translate any of the programs on TV; kids grow up hearing shows and movies and celebrities speaking in their native language.  So I asked her, can you speak Portuguese yet? Nope, only Spanish, but close enough…

Segment 21 – Do Multilingual People Have Split Personalities: "Cuando tu hablas en inglés es como que no eres mi mami"

Yes, I know you want to read more about localization and business, but since the season of summer, graduation, and kids wrapping up school is upon us, I want to discuss a slightly different language theme...people and language personalities.

 ¡Hola Hombre! K’tal?  I was at my children’s school summer reception and saw one of my son’s little friend, when I loudly shouted to him with glee...

Did you see that gesture?  Communication comes in more forms than just verbal.  Understanding the message often includes what is NOT said, just as much as what IS said.  When people speak, much can be derived from the words chosen, the tone of voice used and the word stressed.  

When someone asks “What’s the matter with you?” in a soft calming voice, you can bet that person is trying to show concern and maybe even empathy.  Whereas, when someone asks “What’s the matter with you ?” in a stern voice with emphasis on the you, you can bet that person is not exactly pleased with you.  

But what if someone asks “What’s the matter with you?” while gently rubbing your shoulders and looking deeply into your eyes?  Or what if someone shouts “What’s the matter with you ?” sticks their chest out and waves their hands abruptly in the air as if shooing away imaginary insects in the air?  It becomes pretty clear within certain circles what the person is really saying.

Body language and non-verbal gestures can be very important in conveying messages; however like different foreign languages, the gesture may not always translate the same across borders.  Cultural differences once again are at play; the wrong gesture can inadvertently lead to confusion or offence:

• The thumbs-up sign is like the middle finger in Greece and Sardinia. 
• Fingers under the left or right side of your face, under the jaw bone, flicking out like you are trying to remove a speck of dirt from your face is worse than the middle finger, in Arabic cultures.
• An American tapping a finger to his/her temple is a gesture indicating that someone should think or remember something, but suggests craziness to a Russian. 
• Nodding or shaking one’s head might even be misunderstood abroad. The yes-no gestures are reversed in Bulgaria and Albania.
• In parts of East Asia, gesturing is considered crude, and would be rude in a professional setting.
• Silence can be very meaningful in different cultural situations. In Western cultures, like the US and the UK, silence might seem uncomfortable, and be perceived as a sign of inattentiveness or disinterest.
• In China, silence can be used to show agreement and receptiveness. 
• In Japan, silence from women can be considered an expression of femininity.
• Eye contact in most western countries is a sign of confidence and attentiveness. 
• In many Middle Eastern countries, same-gender eye contact tends to be more intense than the western standard.
• In many Asian, African, and Latin American countries, direct and continuous eye contact would be considered aggressive and confrontational. 
• Cultures that tend to be conscious of hierarchy or class, might feel that avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect for bosses or elders.  For example, in Thailand, children won’t look at an adult who is speaking to them, nor will employees to their bosses.

Communication is not easy; mind your words and mind your body language, especially when communicating across cultures.  As a visitor to a foreign land, it is best to at least learn a few basics, just as you would learn to say “Hello” or “Thank you”; it couldn't hurt to also learn a few non-verbal points of communications.

Segment 20 - Getting Back to Business for International Success – Last Week My Laptop Died

Last week my laptop died. I woke up Friday morning, went to log on, and to my dismay, my trusty old laptop just could not fire up.  Don't get me wrong, my old faithful digital friend served me well, sticking with me through the years maintaining its American keyboard and U.S. configured digital formats...  

In honor of mothers around the world, we took a look at the different ways to say “Mama”.  

According to Russian linguist Roman Jakobson, the easiest vocalizations for a human to make are open-mouth vowel sounds. Babies can make vowel sounds with the very first breathe they take on day one. They begin experimenting with other noises, and test some of the easier consonant sounds. Usually they start with the sounds made with closed lips, such as /m/ /p/ /b/. Babies summon their energy to push out that new consonant sound "MMMM" and then relax into an open mouth vowel, usually "ah" — which is the easiest. Combine that with a baby's natural repetition in speech, you get " ma-ma", "ba-ba"  or "pa-pa".

So why do babies seem to prefer the "m" sound instead of "p" or "b"?  The "m" sound is the easiest for a baby mouth to make when nursing. As we develop into adults, we maintain that association of  "mmm" with something delicious and tasty. So does baby.

Jakcobson's work suggests that baby has no idea that Mama is the mother. Mama doesn't mean "I love you, sweet sleepless woman who does everything for me..." It means "food, yummers, yummies..."

Here is a list of some terms across the world to describe that beloved lady that we all first come to know, even before we were born (if you can try to say it like a baby would, you will quickly see the “mama” commonality:

Segment 19 - Getting Back to Business for International Success – Website Localization: Done Right!

In last week’s segment we discussed some good reasons why a company would want to go global and localize their content for a broader audience. While it may be easy to say that one should avoid this or that, or one should do this or that; it is just not always simple...

Segment 18 - Getting Back to Business for International Success – Website Localization: Going Global

“We are ready to go global" said the voice at the other end of the phone. This phrase is “music” to every localization agency’s ears (well, except the “Hello” part – that part would be tailored to the actual recipient of the call – in this case it is me)...

Segment 17 - To Tip or Not to Tip - Avoid an International Incident!

In this segment, I want to explore a slightly different topic than the normal translation across borders topics discussed in this blog series. Oh don’t worry; I’ll continue to give professional advice and personal experiences relating to best practices in business and international topics in later blog posts. However today, I’d like to discuss the “art” or “faux pas” of tipping, while not exactly a topic of international business or globalization, attitudes about tipping are critical to most people who navigate around the world, albeit for personal or business travels...

Are you ready? Ah, Spring! This season brings increasing daylight, warming temperatures, and the rebirth of beautiful blooms.  The word equinox is derived from the Latin words meaning “equal night.” Days and nights are approximately equal everywhere and the Sun rises and sets due east and west. Here are some nice expressions relating to Spring:

•  One swallow does not make a spring.
• Bluebirds are a sign of spring; warm weather and gentle south breezes they bring.
• In spring, no one thinks of the snow that fell last year.
• Don’t say that spring has come until you can put your foot on nine daisies.
• Spring-time sweet!
• The whole Earth smiles, thy coming to greet.

 Want some pasta Primavera? 

Do you know how to say Spring in Spanish, Portuguese, Italian or Romanian? Primavera. "Prima" is from a Latin root meaning "first", and "vera" is also from a Latin root meaning "truth".  Hence together, we get "first truth", what a nice connotation to have represent this beautiful new season.

Here is Spring in some other languages:

• French: Printemps
• German: Frühling
• Japanese: Haru 春
• Russian: Becha
• Danish: Foraret
• Dutch: Lente
• Norwegian: Varen
• Turkish: Bahar
• Swedish: Varen

So get outside and tell the Sun gods that Spring is officially here, and you want some Primavera!  We’re ready!

Segment 16- Getting Back to Business for International Success - Chinese Markets Part 2 

In the last segment, we began a discussion around the classic 4 P’s of product marketing to understand how Western businesses can more successfully expand their market share in the Chinese Markets? 

We looked at the first two P’s: Product and Promotion. Two key take-aways were:

1. Do your homework. Know which languages your Chinese markets speak and read, and localize your product and marketing initiatives accordingly.  Focus on the local aspects and benefits of your product.

2. Understand the value of relationships within the Asian society, and leverage regional social media and blogging platforms – in the local language. Narrow in on local promotional platforms to disseminate information about your product.

This segment, I'll continue with Pricing, Placement and Position as it relates to the global Chinese markets. But before we jump in, I want to share a little story...

Segment 15 - Getting Back to Business for International Success - Chinese Markets  

On February 5th, I started receiving emails from business associates in Asia, stating that they would be unavailable from the 8th through the 18th.  A few days later, I started seeing commercials for Chinese cultural documentaries and specials on TV.  

Later over that weekend, I was speaking with my mother and she said that she would be very busy in the upcoming weeks due to several Chinese banquets and parties over the period (she’s not Chinese either)…then it dawned on me, it’s the season for Chinese New Year... 

Segment 14 - International Success - eLearning Localization    

Now that 2013 is in full swing, it is time to get into gear. You’ve put away your Christmas decorations, reviewed your personal goals for the New Year, and are now roaring to get your life in order.   How about your driver’s license?  Have you looked to see if it expires this year? 

If you are living abroad, have you checked to see if the laws permit you to continue driving with your foreign or international driver’s license?  The peril of life as an expat once again emerges…

Segment 13 - New Year Resolutions for 2013 – Estoy Constipada

Why do people make New Year Resolutions?  We all know that well over 85% of all New Year Resolutions fail.  People across the world embrace the New Year, promising and hoping for something that will deliver a better tomorrow for themselves, family, friends, neighbors, country and/or the world.  

 “I want to obtain financial freedom/true love/better health... I’ll try to be a better...

Segment 12 - Santa Claus, Papa Noel, St. Nick & Los Reyes Magos

During this time, one can say Happy Holidays, smile and spread happy blessings of joy and peace to virtually anyone they meet in the street. No matter where you are from, most people are cheerful and welcoming of one another with positivity, good spirits and joy.  Whether you are celebrating the period for religious reasons or for family quality time or simply commercial reasons, it is simply a wonderful time of the year.  The day after Christmas, as we were walking back from the store with fresh bread and freshly made King’s Cake, my daughter asked me a very deep question…  

“Why does my friend, Maria, receive presents from the Three Kings, and we don’t?”  Ahh, the questions many expat kids living in Spain will eventually ask their parents, has finally arrived...

Segment 11 - Ten Themes You Just Can’t Find the Words to Translate

Well, it finally happened to me!  I was speechless… I was with some friends in Madrid, having fun light conversation, when one person told a story, and concluded with "No ande buscando tres pies al gato"...
He then turned to me and asked, “How would you say that in English?”  I stuttered, “Uh…I don't know something like...don’t walk around cats with 3 feet?"  A hearty laugh came from the group...

Segment 10 - Localization of Popular Legends - The Tooth Fairy, El Ratón Pérez or La Petite Souris?

My 7 year old daughter recently came home from her tennis lesson with her front tooth in her pocket.  Very excited she shouted, “Yay, I get money tonight!”, while waving her front tooth wildly in the air.  

Yes, even 7 year olds understand the value of a fallen tooth. That night, as we prepared the tooth in her special golden cloth pouch, and placed it under her pillow, an intriguing conversation unfolded...

Segment 9 - Localization of Colors Around the World – A Business Perspective

In the last article, I discussed the cultural influence of colors and why localization of colors should first be understood from a cultural perspective.  In this segment, I will elaborate on colors and share how the cultural factors have impacted business decisions. 

But before I begin, I want to answer a burning question from the last article: “Can we wear black to the wedding?”  

According to CBS News' Maria Gavrilovic, Barack Obama, the 44th and recently re-elected President of the US, claims to not speak any foreign language.  Others have claimed that the President can actually communicate in Spanish, Indonesian and Sign Language. 

Either, the President is a modest person, who can actually speak more languages than English, or his presence is so clear and powerful that people just seem to understand his message regardless of the actual linguistics of his delivery.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii to a mother from Kansas and father from Kenya, and having lived for some childhood years in Indonesia, President Obama is considered to be an international American leader.

In a 2006 interview from The Oprah Winfrey Show, Obama discussed his family’s international and cultural diversity, “Michelle will tell you that when we get together for Christmas or Thanksgiving, it's like a little mini-United Nations," he says. Obama’s half-sister, who is Indonesian American, is married to a Chinese-Canadian-American. "I've got relatives who look like Bernie Mac, and I've got relatives who look like Margaret Thatcher," Obama said.  

President Obama also has seven half-siblings from his Kenyan father's family, some Irish cousins, and his mother’s family roots have been traced back to the Native Americans. 

Segment 8 - Localization of Colors Around the World

Color is serious business.  Countless hours are spent thinking of which colors to decorate one’s home, office, studio, wardrobe, hair, store, business image, etc.  Millions of dollars are spent by advertisers to determine the perfect color or combination of colors for products, brands and images.  Even more millions are spent by the producers of colors (ie. paint manufactures, designers, artists) to develop the perfect color, shade, tint and hue to elicit the perfect emotions.  Color must first be understood as a human factor, and like words in a language, colors have a distinct meaning to different people and cultures... 

November 6, 2012  Lyon, France - Join HT LOCALIZATION at France’s International Commerce CLASSE EXPORT Exposition Lyon 2012

CLASSE EXPORT Exposition is France's premier exposition for international business leaders. CLASSE EXPORT brings together globalization leaders, international commerce experts and local businesses to share best practices for successful internationalization and global expansion efforts.  

The 22nd edition of CLASSE EXPORT international commerce exposition will be held in EUREXPO Parc in Lyon, France on December 4 and 5, 2012.  This is an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs, businesses and organizations who want to gain key insights and success factors for globalization and internationalization. CLASSE EXPORT will host several forums discussing the state of the economy, global business climate, and regional factors for success.   The Expo will offer a unique opportunity for intellectual exchange and networking with key international business leaders and globalization experts, who will provide practical advice on how to develop a successful global expansion program in today’s environment.

The founder of HT LOCALIZATION, Hervé THEVENET will be amongst the international leaders at the Expo sharing important insights on globalization, translation and localization.  Hervé THEVENET has over 20 years of business experience in localization, consulting, design, development and deployment of business application. His breadth of experience reaches Africa, Europe and North America in various industries including localization, software consulting services, financial services and network security.  As a seasoned leader in the localization industry, he has worked with global clients such as Apple, General Electric, SAP Business Objects and LinkedIn.

HT LOCALIZATION is an international translation agency providing a full range of professional language translation and localization services, including social media localization, marketing translations, website translations, software localization, eLearning materials, documentation translations, etc.  With Sales & Operations located San Francisco CA, Madrid Spain, Lusaka Zambia and Bangkok Thailand, and a Global Linguistic Network spanning North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia, HT LOCALIZATION provides around the globe localization services covering all languages across all major industries.

Le 6 novembre 2012  Lyon, France - Rencontrez HT LOCALIZATION au salon CLASSE EXPORT Lyon 2012

CLASSE EXPORT est un leader français de l’information en matière de commerce international. CLASSE EXPORT rassemble les leaders de la mondialisation, des experts internationaux du commerce et des entreprises locales pour partager les meilleures pratiques en matière d'internationalisation réussie et aider les efforts d'expansion mondiale.

La 22ème édition de CLASSE EXPORT, le salon du commerce international, qui se tiendra au parc EUREXPO à Lyon les 4 et 5 décembre prochains, est plus que jamais l’opportunité idéale pour les entrepreneurs et dirigeants d’entreprises qui se positionnent sur les marchés étrangers et souhaitent développer leurs activités internationales. Le salon Classe export organise plusieurs conférences sur la situation économique internationale et le climat des affaires mondiales, ainsi que les facteurs régionaux entrant en compte dans la globalisation et l’internationalisation. Le salon est aussi une occasion unique d’échanges intellectuels et de réseautage avec des chefs d’entreprises et des experts internationaux de la mondialisation.

Le fondateur de HT LOCALIZATION, Hervé THEVENET, sera présent pour discuter de l'importance de la localisation linguistique et de traduction pour des expansions réussies vers les marchés mondiaux.  Hervé THEVENET possède plus de 20 ans d'expérience dans le secteur de la localisation linguistique et du déploiement de logiciels et d'applications d'entreprise. Il a travaillé en Afrique, en Europe et en Amérique du Nord dans divers secteurs, notamment la localisation linguistique, l'informatique, la finance et la sécurisation des réseaux informatique. Expert chevronné dans le domaine de la localisation linguistique, Hervé THEVENET a précédemment été en charge de la production et de la technologie pour divers acteurs du secteur de la traduction, des entreprises pour lesquelles il a géré des programmes de localisation pour des grands groupes internationaux parmi lesquels Apple, General Electric, SAP Business Objects et LinkedIn.

HT LOCALIZATION est une agence de traduction internationale offrant une gamme complète de services professionnels de traduction et de localisation linguistique couvrant toutes les langues y compris les langues asiatiques et bidirectionnelles pour la traduction de documents marketing et technique, sites web, logiciels et apps, et bien plus encore.

Segment 7 - Coffee Talk with International Mommies - Picking French Bones

One thing I’ve learned living here in the expat community in Madrid, is that everyone has a bone to pick about the “proper” way to speak a language.  In Madrid, English is an interesting concept, as discussed in my earlier post. Children are taught British English in school, but American pop culture seems to prevail...

The gorgeous Victoria's Secret model, Gisele Bundchen, who married NFL Super Bowl winning quarterback Tom Brady is a sixth-generation German Brazilian. Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, considered by experts and fans as one of the greatest football [soccer] players of all time was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Brazil is the only Portuguese-speaking nation in the Americas, making the language an important part of Brazilian national identity distinct from those of its Spanish-speaking neighbors.  Brazil has a rich culture with a mixed background of heritages. By just examining the history, one can clearly see why Brazil is unique.

Before the first Portuguese arrived in 1500, the region was inhabited by Amerindians, Tapuia tribes and other indigenous people speaking over 1,000 different languages.  In the first two centuries of colonization, a language based on local dialects was widely spoken by the Amerindians, the Portuguese settlers, Africans and descendants. The Portuguese spoken in Brazil absorbed many influences early on from this mix of languages, which led to a notable differentiation from the Portuguese spoken in Portugal. 

Additionally, Brazil has had substantial immigration of non-Portuguese-speaking people from Europe and Asia. Some 300,000 Germans and 1.5 million Italians immigrated to Brazil. Others included Spaniards, Poles, Ukrainians, Japanese and Middle-Easterners.  While Brazil was enjoying a rich influx of cultures mixed with indigenous influences, the country was developing oceans apart from Portugal back in Europe.  At the same time, Portugal continued to experience influences from its French neighbors adopting changes in its own language, lexicon and pronunciation.  

As in any colonial relationship, the loyalties of the people are shared between local indigenous and colonial influences. Traditions and norms are mixed, some are maintained, others fade away and new ones are created. Language is a big part of that.  The differences of Brazilian Portuguese and Portuguese spoken in Portugal are often compared to that of US English and British English.

Segment 6 - Coffee Talk with International Mommies 

So when we first moved to Madrid, I found life here very different than in San Francisco.  The people in Madrid are so relaxed, so casual, so interested in family and “non-work” talk. The women dress very nice.  Just to walk in the park with a baby stroller means being decked out in the latest fashion and high heels.  Hair is always styled and make-up always perfect.

When folks find out that I am American, they are excited to practice their English and ask me all sort of questions about the difference between American and British speak – localization of life...

Wild jungles, beautiful wildlife, exotic tribes, plethora of untouched savannahs, are all images conjured up when one is dreaming about a safari cross-continental adventure.  But which languages are critical to communicate?

If you can speak the language of one of the former colonial nations – English (130 million African speakers), French (115 million African speakers), Portuguese (20 million African speakers) and Spanish (10 million African speakers) – then you can at least get by in some parts of the continent. 

Of the Africans (1,000 million in 2009), about 17 percent speak an Arabic dialect. Around 10 percent speak Swahili in East Africa; about 5 percent speak a Berber dialect; and about 5 percent speak Hausa in West Africa. Other important West African languages are Yoruba, Igbo and Fula. And some important South African languages are Zulu and Afrikaans. [Source: Wikipedia]

The following languages are official at the national level in Africa:

• Arabic in Algeria, Comoros, Chad, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Somalia, Sudan, and Tunisia
• Berber in Morocco and Algeria
• Swahili in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda
• Amharic in Ethiopia
• Somali in Somalia and Djibouti
• Hausa in Nigeria and Niger
• Chichewa in Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique
• Kinyarwanda in Rwanda and the closely related Kirundi in Burundi
• Sango in the CAR
• Swazi in Swaziland and South Africa
• Malagasy in Madagascar
• Seychellois Creole in the Seychelles
• Shona & Ndebele in Zimbabwe
• Afrikaans, Ndebele, Xhosa, Zulu, Pedi, Sotho, Tswana, Swazi, Venda, and Tsonga in South Africa

So in order to get by on a Safari on the African continent, one should speak English, French, Arabic and Swahili (since some if the most beautiful sights can be found in Kenya and Tanzania), and maybe animal languages (ie. lions, tigers - oh my!)

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HT Localization est une agence de traduction internationale. Nous fournissons une gamme complète de services professionnels de traduction et de localisation dans toutes les langues. 

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Segment 5 – How to Raise Multilingual Kids

In my last segment I discussed how being multilingual makes one a better multi-tasker, a great problem solver, very creative, emotionally controlled, able to fight the effects of ageing, and more...  The benefits of being multilingual are compelling enough to make parents consider the notion of trying to foster an environment of “multilingualism” for their offspring...   

Segment 4 – Kids Growing up in a Multilingual World

 “If you know two languages, the level of your intelligence is multiplied a hundredfold in other people’s eyes.”  Bill Cosby, Actor.

• Madonna has two children Lourdes and Rocco. Both speak English and French some Spanish. 
• Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith have a daughter Stella, who has grown up speaking English and Spanish.
• Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi have a son Jaden Gil and daughter Jaz Elle who are bilingual with German and English.
• Wesley Snipes and Nikki Parks have a daughter and a son, who are growing up speaking English and Korean.

Not a day goes by without another linguistic expert reporting new research about ...

Segment 3 – Translations in a Big Fat International Wedding!

What do Queen Sofía of Spain, the former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, Nelson Mandela and Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar have in common?  

Segment 2 – Love Language Translations: She’s got that “Je ne sais pas”

They say that the language of love transcends cultural borders.  Love can indeed be lost in translations, or at least confused in translations at times.  Sure men might be from Mars, and women from Venus, but imagine if they weren’t even from the same galaxy!  How do you localize a relationship? 

July 25, 2012  Madrid, Spain - HT Localization tackles the Language of Love in Segment 2 of Real Life Series – Love Language Translations

HT Localization, an international translation agency, recently announced the roll-out of their new Language Translations for Real Life Series: A series articulating multi-lingual influences on the modern life.  The first segment of the new language blog series - Expats have translation needs too! - discussed the importance of translating locally for the growing number of international expats and the immigration community both in the US and Europe.  

Rachanee Thevenet, the Co-Founder of HT Localization translation agency will now tackle the Language of Love, with Segment 2 – Love Language Translations: She’s got that “Je ne sais pas”.   According to a report by The Economist, cross-border relationships have been rising consistently.  Marketing researchers and globalization experts are noticing the increasing trends in Asia and the US.

Segment 2 – Love Language Translations:  She’s got that “Je ne sais pas” explores the theme of localization and relationships, along with some Love Translation Tips.  What’s the Love Language Translation? Why does this matter?  Here’s an excerpt:

They say that the language of love transcends cultural borders.  Love can indeed be lost in translations, or at least confused in translations at times.  Sure men might be from Mars, and women from Venus, but imagine if they weren’t even from the same galaxy!  How do you localize a relationship? 

September 17, 2012  Madrid, Spain - HT Localization Explores  Kids Growing up in a Multilingual World 

With September’s arrival, parents turn their focus Back to School as families begin the long anticipated new 2012-2013 academic year. The latest segment of the HT Localization’s LanguageTranslations for Real Life Blog Series features the benefits of fostering a multilingual or bilingual environment for children.  Latest research points to some compelling reasons why parents should seriously consider the value of being able to fluently express one’s ideas in more than one language.

HT Localization’s co-founder Rachanee Thevenet shares some practical insights as to why being multilingual really matters, in addition to the latest research findings that multilingual children are better at multi-tasking, problem solving, and tend to be more emotionally developed. 

The international translation agency recently announced the roll-out of their new Language Translations for Real Life Series: A series articulating multi-lingual influences on the modern life.  Kids Growing up in a Multilingual World is the latest segment of the translation agency’s new Blog Series.

Read the full story and subscribe to the new Blog: Language Translations for Real Life Series

October 1, 2012  Paris, France - HT Localization Broadens Social Media Reach with France Based Viadeo 

HT Localization, an international translation and localization agency based in the U.S., engages its European audience with the French based social media platform - Viadeo.  Viadeo is an online social networking platform, similar to the American based LinkedIn.

The Viadeo Group was founded in 2004 in Paris, and is quickly becoming the leading professional networking platform in France and within the European French community. The Viadeo Group has over 45 million registered users and supports social networking platforms in 8 languages, compared to LinkedIn’s 175 million worldwide users.

HT Localization’s co-founder, Hervé Thevenet has been working with social networking platforms since the mid 2000’s and was involved with LinkedIn’s early localization efforts to launch into select international markets, which eventually expanded into the 18 languages currently offered by the LinkedIn platform today.

“Effective social networking platforms will allow customization within a specific language, but also integration with potential users in other languages. A global social platform should be designed to allow content to be translated between multiple languages across various user populations.” says Hervé Thevenet.  The manner by which the localization is achieved will depend on the global social media strategy, platform and goals of the company.  

February 5, 2013  Montpellier, France - HT Localization Expands to France

HT LOCALIZATION  LLC. is expanding its presence to France.  Ms. Florence Duchassin de Martino of Montpellier, France has joined HT Localization focusing on the European business development efforts.  Ms. Duchassin de Martino brings a wealth of international strategic expertise in the publishing and gaming industries, where she led key initiatives for international leaders such as Sega Europe, Time Warner Interactive, iDLivre, and Microids, to name a few.

HT Localization is an international translation agency and localization services company providing a full range of professional language translation & software localization services. "With sales & operations located worldwide, adding a sales presence in France will help to better serve clients in the region," says President & Co-Founder Hervé Thevenet.   Ms. Duchassin de Martino will lead the European business development efforts for HT Localization in Montpellier, France.  

With Ms. Duchassin de Martino’s gaming industry expertise, the company will increase its offering to better support the needs of the growing European-based gaming community.  HT Localization already provides translation services, including voice-over talent services to several gaming producers in the Hong Kong and the U.S. markets, and will focus on including more European gaming producers in their international portfolio of clients.  

HT Localization, LLC. is a privately-held translation agency and localization services company offering high quality multi-lingual services.  Based in the U.S. with sales & operations located in San Francisco CA USA, Madrid Spain, Montpellier France, Lusaka Zambia and Bangkok Thailand, HT Localization provides localization services including social media localization, marketing translations, website translations, software localization, eLearning materials, and documentation translations covering all languages across all major industries.

Segment 1 - Expats Have Translation Needs Too!

There are Spanish speakers with Mexican heritage along the southern U.S. border, Cuban heritage in Florida, and Puerto Rican heritage in New York City. Miami has the largest number of Spanish speakers in the western hemisphere outside Latin America.

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"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."

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6 official languages used by the United Nations are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian & Spanish.

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Do you have questions? We have answers, read our Translations and Localizations FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Translations and Localization 

Check back here often, we continually update these FAQs.

If you have a FAQ that you'd like to submit, please use our Online Form to send us a question.

See FAQs below.

Why should we use a multi-language service provider for our translations, can’t we just do it ourselves?

Translation & Localization Industry Glossary 

Like every industry, the translation and localization industry has its own jargon. Below you will find some commonly used terms used by the industry.

If you have a term that you'd like us to explain, please use our Online Form to send us your request. Check back often, as we continue to refine and add to this glossary.

See terms below.

Alignment: An alignment involves matching segments of an original text with their corresponding translations to create a translation memory. The alignment process is accomplished using special purposes CAT software, and requires the efforts of an individual able to read the two languages been aligned. Saving the output of an alignment procedure into a translation memory allows the reuse of previous translations in future projects when no translation memory was available prior. The saving generated usually outweight the cost of the process hence making it worthwhile to save money and also to ensure consistency of style.

Computer Aided Translation (CAT) Tool: Software that supports and facilitates the translation process. The non-translatable elements (such as formatting or programming codes) are filtered out and the text is segmented using language specific rules to optimize matching the content with a translation memory. Human translators use these tools to manage and select terminology glossaries, lookup and apply translation memory entries. Most modern CAT software also include QA features as well as spell checkers. Some CAT software are desktop applications that allow to connect to translation memories stored locally or remotely (so multiple translators can work in paralel with the same corpus), and in recent years the industry saw the apparition of cloud based applications where the translation tool is accessed from within web browsers.

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Merin Thamaviriyakul

Business Development Manager, Bangkok, Thailand

Merin comes to HT Localization from Bangkok Thailand, where she worked in both sales and guests services in the real estate and hotel industries. She was directly involved in managing customer hospitality to ensure that each guest had a pleasant experience. Merin is fluent in Thai, English, Spanish and French.  She has completed language certification programs from the San Mateo Adult School in San Mateo, CA. and Inhispania International Language Center in Madrid, Spain.  Merin earned her Bachelor Degree of Education majoring in Psychology from Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.  

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more about our services in Thailand.

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Lyn Jakab 

Business Development Manager, San Francisco, CA

Lyn brings extensive experience in marketing and business development from the software, healthcare & manufacturing industries.  She has successfully spearheaded sales and marketing support programs that helped propel Mindscape, Inc., Krames Communications and Standard Abrasives forward in the marketplace.  Her ability to form deep relationships with clients is a true asset, as she not only understands client needs, but she creates partnerships that evolve into win-win solutions.   

Lyn has a BS in Business Administration from Weber State University, Utah and an MBA from the University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to hear her perspective on how we can help drive your marketing and sales programs in local markets. 

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Debbie Parkinson 

Business Development Manager, Lusaka, Zambia

Debbie joins our HT Localization from Lusaka, Zambia, bringing her intercultural experiences to our team.  Debbie is well versed in cultural differences as experienced in her numerous non-profit ventures.  She frequently travels between the UK, Spain, Zambia and South Africa, where she spends her time working on local educational and cultural initiatives. 

She successfully started an international school in Lusaka dedicated to providing local children an English education with an international footprint.  Debbie speaks several local African dialects, Spanish and English.  Her ability to understand different cultures and intercultural needs makes her an asset to our team. 

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to gain her perspective on localization in Africa.

Discover our International Translation Agency and Localization Services

Florence Duchassin de Martino 

Business Development Manager, Montpellier, France

Florence Duchassin de Martino has joined HT Localization focusing on the European business development efforts.  Ms. Duchassin de Martino brings a wealth of international strategic expertise in the publishing and gaming industries, where she led key initiatives for international leaders such as Sega Europe, Time Warner Interactive, iDLivre, and Microids, to name a few.

She has been a key international leader for over 20 years in the U.S. and European markets, and is a key member of HT Localization's online gaming strategy.

Contact Florence to gain her perspective on localization, publishing and gaming.

Discover our International Translation Agency and Localization Services

Rachanee Thevenet

Co-Founder - Marketing & Product Management

Prior to HT Localization, Rachanee spent over 12 years in the financial services industry with Charles Schwab in San Francisco, CA, where she held various roles in product development & management and project management.  Her expertise in client experience helped to drive the success of Schwab.com, various client web tools and wealth management solutions.  Early in her career, she worked in Schwab International, where she helped to open the Hong Kong and Cayman Island offices and brought Schwab’s products & service to those local markets.   Before the financial services industry, she was a chemical engineer working with global clients such as Chevron, Dow Chemical, and Bayer.  Rachanee has a BS in Chemical and Biomedical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, and an MBA in Finance from the University of San Francisco, California.  She has a strong focus on client experience and collaboration to methodically solve problems using process driven discipline. 

If you’d like to hear her perspective on the drivers to successful product management and local market launches, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Hervé Thevenet

President & Co-Founder - Technology & Operations

Hervé has 20 years of business experience in localization, consulting, design, development and deployment of business application. His breadth of experience reaches Africa, Europe and North America in various industries including localization, software consulting services, financial services & network security.  Hervé is a graduate of the Université de Toulon, France in Computer Science and Business Administration, and holds an MBA from the University of San Francisco, California.

As a seasoned leader in the localization industry, Hervé recently served as the Chief Technology Officer at LocalEyes, and held various senior leadership roles at Tek Translations and Welocalize.  He has worked with global clients such as Apple, General Electric and SAP Business Objects, to deliver their localization needs.  Having worked with many translators, linguists, technologist and clients worldwide, Hervé has a keen insight on international business needs and localization.  He understands the importance of providing services and products to local markets in the most efficient and cost effective manner without sacrificing quality. 

If you want to better understand how we do what we do, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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April 26, 2012. San Francisco, CA. -  HT Localization expands to the San Francisco Bay Area

HT Localization, LLC. announced that it is expanding its presence to Northern California.  Lyn Jakab has joined HT Localization as the North American Business Development manager located in San Francisco, CA. The Bay Area is home to some of the finest technology firms in the world, an incubator to many of the world's successful  internet & technology start-ups.  HT Localization, LLC. is a worldwide translation & localization services company based in the U.S. and Spain, offering high quality multi-lingual services at a low cost.  

"It makes sense.  Our Bay Area clients are innovative by nature, they provide their own clients with high service levels, and they also deserve quality service levels from their suppliers.  With sales & operations located worldwide, we are well positioned to serve our California clients with geographically desirable service." says President & Co-Founder Herve Thevenet.    

Herve Thevenet is no stranger to the Bay Area, where he spent several years working in the network security and localization industries in the late 90's and early 2000's, prior to relocating to Madrid, Spain, where HT Localization's operations is managed.  Prior to starting HT Localization, Herve Thevenet was the CTO of an Italian based localization firm and also worked for TekTranslations and WeLocalize, where he catered to technology and internet organizations.

To inaugurate the expansion to California, HT Localization is launching a 15% rebate promotion to all new clients.  "Our clients come to us for our competitive pricing, but they stay with us because of quality."   In the localization business, "your [company's] reputation is on the line. Clients cannot afford to have linguistic mistakes on their product collateral or company's print or online materials."    

May 29, 2012  London, England - 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games: HT Localization & European Businesses are Leveraging Languages for the Global Stage

This summer, the world will be watching the 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world.  London is home to over 200 ethnic communities, who speak over 300 languages. While the official languages of the Olympic Games are French and English, the official Olympic website is available in 5 languages: Chinese, English, French, Spanish and Arabic. The reality is that with over 200 countries gathering for the summer games, 300+ languages will be spoken this summer in England’s capital!

The UK is preparing to receive over 330,000 international tourists and participants due to the London 2012 Olympics. According to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), “The Olympic Games are one of the most effective international marketing platforms in the world, reaching billions of people in over 200 countries and territories throughout the world”.

According to Amadeus, a company that provides technology to the travel industry, and Forward Data SL, a market research and consulting company publishing ForwardKeys, 31% more people will visit London between July 23 - August 12 than in the same period last year, with the greatest visitors from the US, Germany and Australia, along with other European nations and Japan.

What does this all mean for local business in London, where English is the spoken language and widely understood by nearly 2 billion people globally who speak English as a second language? 

July 12, 2012  Madrid, Spain - HT Localization kicks-off their new Blog Series: Language Translations for Real Life -A series articulating multi-lingual influences on the modern life

HT Localization LLC. a translation and localization agency with offices in San Francisco and Madrid announced their new blog Language Translations for Real Life Series.  A series of articles articulating multi-lingual influences on the modern life will be launched in the upcoming weeks to help bring home the essence of language in everyday life.  In today’s global society, crossroads are connecting borders and lives at an amazing pace.  It is no longer uncommon to be born multi-ethnic, raised multi-lingual, to have dual or even triple nationalities, or to live in one city where literally hundreds of languages are spoken.  Translation and localization aren’t just a requirement for businesses, but also for everyday people living and working in this world.

“Our goal is ‘to make it real’, language is critical to our lives” says Rachanee Thevenet, Co-Founder of HT Localization.  Globalization touches people not only in regards to businesses, but for personal activities.  It’s not only a sales or marketing tool for businesses to expand internationally, but a necessity for people to function effectively in today’s world.  “Take for example, expats living in a foreign country.  They need to take local driving exams, find doctors and schools for their kids, understand contracts and local laws, navigate the Social Services, these things can be hard to get your head around if you are not from that area, imagine trying it when you’re not fluent in the local language” adds Rachanee Thevenet.  

HT Localization will "make it real” with this new blog series by exploring life themes such as, needs for expats, international relationships and marriages, raising multi-lingual kids, localization of popular world legends, religion and of course the old American English vs. British English debate, to name a few.  “I hope to share some of my personal experiences and observations on how language and translations are impacting lives, at the very least, this should make for some interesting reading” says Rachanee Thevenet.

Here’s an excerpt of the first segment of HT Localizations Presents Language Translations for Real Life Series, where HT Localization explores: Expats Have Translation Needs Too! 

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Protecting your privacy is important to HT LOCALIZATION. We strive to keep your personal information confidential. By ensuring that you are aware of and understand the HT LOCALIZATION Privacy Policy, we can provide you with better service. Please take a moment to read the following policy to learn how we handle your personal information.

Definition

“Personal Information”* means any information that (i.) relates to a natural person or individual, and (ii.) is transferred to HT LOCALIZATION in the U.S. from the European Economic Area or Switzerland, (iii.) is recorded in any form, (iv.) relates to an identified or identifiable customer, and (v.) can be linked to that individual. Personal Information does not include information that is encoded or anonymized, or publicly available information that has not been combined with non-public personal information.

“Sensitive Personal Information”* means Personal Information specifying medical or health conditions, racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, sex life, the commission or alleged commission of any offense, any proceedings for any offense committed or alleged to have been committed by the individual or the disposal of such proceedings, or the sentence of any court in such proceedings.

HT LOCALIZATION generally does not collect - nor seeks to collect - Personal Information from prospects or clients, and never collect Sensitive Personal Information from prospects or clients. If Personal Information is gathered, it is limited to business contact information, See below:

Sustainability and Green Policy

HT Localization LLC is committed to sustainability because it's the right thing for the environment and for our business.

HT Localization LLC is committed to making a positive impact on the environment by pursuing and implementing effective green practices and procedures.  We apply environmentally friendly “green thinking” to every action and every decision to benefit our customers, our community and our team.  

We are dedicated to taking the following actions to achieve our green vision:

• Reduce the amount of waste our company produces
• Increase our green knowledge and support green programs
• Support green partners and businesses who are also dedicated to sustainability

Corporate Social Responsibility Policy 

HT Localization Press Releases

Oct. 8, 2013 Wyoming, USA - HT LOCALIZATION Announces a New Referral Program: It Pays To Know People

Feb 5, 2013 Montpellier, France - HT Localization Expands to France 

Nov 6, 2012 Lyon, France - CLASSE EXPORT Lyon 2012

• Join HT LOCALIZATION at France’s International Commerce CLASSE EXPORT Exposition Lyon 2012 (English);
• Rencontrez HT LOCALIZATION au salon CLASSE EXPORT Lyon 2012 (Français)

Oct 1, 2012 Paris, France - HT Localization Broadens Social Media Reach with France Based Viadeo

Are you a top-rate worker in your field?  If you are a localization professional, we should talk...

• Business development professionals with a proven track record
• Skilled localization project managers and engineers
• Experienced professional linguists

Exciting and challenging work. Our business is communications.  We help people to “talk” in the language in which they want to “be heard”.  We help companies deliver their message, locally.  We bring San Francisco to Madrid to Bangkok.  Join us! We are always looking for exceptional professionals to join our team.  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Open Positions:

Business Development Managers (BDM) -  North America, Europe, Asia

The BDM is responsible for developing new business relationships and serving as the first level of support to existing clients.  The BDM will “own” the client relationship.

Bringing Expert Service From Around The Globe To Your Doorstep

HT Localization is an international professional translation agency & localization services firm offering high quality multi-lingual services.  With sales and operations located worldwide, we are well poised to provide around the globe services to meet demanding translation needs.

Our network includes thousands of professional linguists, freelancers and technologist worldwide, ready to serve you.

We follow the sun...Bangkok, Zambia, Montpellier, Madrid, San Francisco...we are here and there, where you need us, when you need us...now.

• North America, USA

Hervé Thevenet

President & Co-Founder - Technology & Operations

Read about Hervé

Rachanee Thevenet

Co-Founder - Marketing & Product Management

 You will gain added savings with quick response time 

Our client portal allows you to have a direct view on the workflow management of your project providing transparency and open communications.  

From the moment you login, you can send a project, request a quote, see the project status and send/receive messages to the project lead.  This communication channel helps facilitate collaboration on more complex projects so that questions can efficiently be addressed as they arise.

If you already have a user ID and Password, you may log in to the Client Portal. 

To request a new user ID and Password, please email your account manager.

Eliminating excess risk provides added peace of mind

We work with you to integrate your Content Management System with our TMS workflow process. This allows us to seamlessly receive and deliver your content, reducing the risks and inefficiencies associated with manual data file transfers. 

This includes all major systems such as TeamSite, Documentum and any solution that has a workflow component for multilingual content and can be connected using Web Services, including many solutions such as Ektron, Kentico, DotNetNuke or based on MS SharePoint.

This makes it easier for you to work with us, and for us to facilitate your project.  

You will benefit from savings created by system efficiencies

We use Translation Management System (TMS) and workflow automation to manage the complexities of your projects effectively.  

Each person on our team who touches your project will follow rigorous procedures dictated by workflow management protocols. Our TMS is customized by our technologist and built on top of the open-source platform GlobalSight.  

Our workflow automation tool will create efficiencies in our processes, allowing us to scale more effectively to the demands of your localization program.  

Once you pay for the “word”, you can use it again and again

We will build or enhance your translation memory database allowing re-use of approved translations for your future projects.  This is key for organizations who continually innovate and deliver new products and services.  

Our technology will integrate with your translation memory (TM)  and immediately recognize phrases that have been stored. The translation of each new phase done by the linguist will also be saved in the database. 

This ensures consistency to your style guide for new materials, and you will benefit from the direct cost savings.

We will save time, which means you will save money

CAT tools (Computer Aided Translation) make translation an interactive process between human and computer.  Industry surveys report that using CAT tools allow linguists to work 40% times faster.  

Our team uses industry leading CAT software tools for faster and more accurate turnaround of your content.  By using CAT technology, you can be assured that less time is spent on manual transactions to your content, and more time is devoted to quality of translation.  

The case for Machine Translation

When creativity is important it is better to trust actual linguists for your translation needs.  However Machine Translation (MT) can be appropriate for some content, we will work with you to ensure the success of your program whether MT is part of the process or not.

 You need to control your localization costs

That’s where we come in.  You can’t afford to waste time or money, neither can we.  That’s why HT Localization is investing in translation technology.  Our cloud based translation technologies allow greater transparency, operational ease and better cost controls.

By leveraging industry leading translation and localization technologies, we can smooth our operations to ensure that your project is completed on time and every time according to your specifications.

Leveraging technology keeps our overhead small, so we are nimble and efficient.  That matters because we can shift gears quickly when you need us.  

How can you ensure that your innovation is properly understood by your users?

Product development is hard work. We know this. You’ve spent months or even years developing your new application.  Let us help you launch it internationally.  We understand software localization. 

• User Interfaces 

• Help Files 

• Databases 

Reach your audience through multimedia channels

The world is not black and white. Technology has opened the world to more exciting platforms and channels to present your message.

If you want to dazzle your audience, then present your content with captivating media.  Transform your content using localized subtitles, voice-overs or animation. 

• Videos

• Presentations & Demonstrations

A whole new market has opened up with mobile applications 

With the new generation internet mobile phones, people can reach your content or application even easier!  Its fun, fast and easier than ever to access the internet while on the go.  

Mobile apps localization: IOS apps for the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android apps, whatever you need, we're on it...

Your customers are ready, are you?  

Localization of applications for your mobile device opens up a whole new playground for your customers.  

Can you afford to have your positioning off?

Have you ever wondered why a new product launched in one country with overwhelming success, while the same product completely flopped in another country?  

We all know about the famous soft drink brand that launched an infamous campaign in China, that mistakenly promised to bring back their ancestors. How could a major global brand make such a disastrous mistake? (see the blog articles on International Success in China)

Our localization experts will ensure that your product message stays intact across cultural boundaries.  We cover all marketing and advertising materials including:

• Print and online advertising translation

Does your online message say the same thing in every language? Do your Chinese customers read you the same way as your Spanish customers?

Your website is your face to the world. You don’t want to miss any opportunities or potential customers due to language barriers. We can help you present your message on the web.  Internet savvy customers require internet savvy outreach solutions in their own language.   

• Ecommerce 

• Email Marketing

• Online Advertisements

Optimize your training programs across the globe locally

It is a proven fact that people learn differently. Learning is as much of an art as a science.  Billions of dollars are put against producing high quality state of the art training programs for a reason - employers understand that effective education programs lead to successful employees.  You can not afford to miss the mark when it comes to tailoring education programs to your local offices across the globe.  We will work with you to localize your education materials, including:

• Computer-based training

• Web-based training

• eLearning and multimedia applications 

Say what you want,  how and where you want to say it

Your message is important. Cultural review and localization help to prevent some embarrassing communication mishaps.

• Style Guide - provides consistent translation and tone across all languages

• Reformatting Content - allows for visual text flow in context

• Graphic Localization - ensures that the artwork doesn’t alienate local cultures

Do you need translations or localization services - what’s the difference

Your audience may require both to really grasp your message, that’s where we come in...

Translating is expressing words or phrases from one language to another. In other words, taking a set of words and providing contextual meaning in a different language. 

Localization includes translations with respect to words and grammar, but also adapts graphics and details with respect to cultural connotations, habits and preferences. (see Blog articles on Cultural Connotations and Colors) Localization is an integral part of the process of globalization.

We work with all languages, anywhere in the world for all media and content.  

Part of leaving the worry behind means trusting us to do our job well. We certainly won’t ask you to simply sit back and “trust us”... we collaborate with you and invite you to be part of our process.  Our ability to manage your program relies on our commitment towards creating a true partnership with you.  Partnership inspires teamwork.  Teamwork creates success.

Starting from our first encounter, we begin building trust.  As we move through the program management workflow, we create transparency with open and ongoing communication.  We are dedicated to quality, productivity and efficiency.  

 Our Program Management Workflow:

Communicating the basics in another other language is one thing, now try talking about the medical system or financial software or the complexities of automobile engines.  If you need someone who can translate legal content in Thailand, we can do it.

When you hire us as your localization partner, you can be assured that we will match the right linguistic experts, who specialize in your industry to your localization program.  Our specialist have experience in all major global industries.  

Here is a representative list of some major industries our linguists cover:

• Advertising & Marketing

• Banking/Financial Services

What does the spanish word “Éxito” mean?  That’s right “Success”

We follow a “high-touch & high-tech,” client approach...which means that we use translation technology along with human expertise to deliver high quality multi-language services.  The human element is the most critical.  

Our network of linguists are native speaking, professionally trained translators, who are native and live in their country.  We provide localization services for all language, anywhere in the world.  

Here is a representative list of the main languages that we cover (if you need more just ask):

Frequently Asked Questions

• Account Manager

• Program Manager

• Project Manager

• Linguistic Talents

• DTP experts

Does your current translation service vendor provide you with timely, flawless, stress-free localization services?

You don’t have time to fuss with added complexities in your program. As your multi-lingual service partner we will work with you to deliver your program needs, with your interests first.  

Our in-country linguists are best in-class, and have worked with major global organizations and Fortune 500 companies.

We work with all languages, anywhere in the world for all media and content, including desktop publishing needs for print and online materials.

Welcome to HT Localization!  It's time to Go Global!

We’re one of the fastest growing international translation agencies. Our team provides a full range of professional language translation & localization services. Including social media localization, marketing translations, website translations, software localization, eLearning materials, documentation translations, and much much more.  We are located in the US, Spain, France, Thailand and Zambia.  

You have a message to deliver... across many borders touching many cultures.  Your language will change, your message shouldn’t

We help people to “talk” in the language in which they want to “be heard”.  We help companies deliver their global message, locally.  Localization is more than just translations, it is understanding people, and how to communicate effectively.  You know that, and so do we.

Your reputation is on the line... quality is key