Important Language Trends for 2024: What’s Next in Translation and Localization

AI and Machine Translation Advancements:

The utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in the localization processes has experienced significant growth. Within translation workflows, AI and ML contribute to enhanced efficiency and have made considerable advancements in accuracy. While this technology continues to learn and evolve, it is also progressing in its ability to adapt content to context and cultural nuances.

However, amid all this technological advancement, the essence of our industry still lies in its human touch. The human element in translation and localization is invaluable. We serve as cultural interpreters, bridge builders, ensuring that every translated word resonates with its intended audience, all the while harnessing the power of AI and ML to optimize our productivity.

Quality Assurance and Post-Editing:

Quality assurance practices and post-editing services are gaining prominence to ensure the accuracy and cultural appropriateness of translations performed with AI. Human involvement remains crucial for refining machine-generated content.

Example: One of our clients used AI to translate the word “Welcome” into 26 languages. 11 translations were correct. The rest were missing accent marks, some used the incorrect gender or the meaning itself was different. This single word can have many different meanings in other languages.

Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusive Localization:

Localization efforts are becoming more attuned to cultural nuances, with a focus on creating content that is not only linguistically accurate but also culturally sensitive and inclusive. Different cultures may have varying perspectives on gender roles and expressions. Translators need to be sensitive to these cultural nuances to accurately convey the intended meaning while respecting cultural differences.

Example: We are updating many of our client’s employee handbooks and other materials so they are inclusive and culturally sensitive.

Multilingual SEO and Content Optimization:

Businesses are increasingly focusing on multilingual SEO strategies to reach a global audience. A rising trend involves embracing regional languages and dialects. This transition extends beyond mere linguistics; it's cultural. It revolves around celebrating diversity and amplifying more voices on the global stage. To accomplish these objectives, we must provide specialized and localized content.

Moving Past Subtitles: Exploring the Cutting Edge of Video Localization

Our engagement with video content is evolving beyond mere observation; it's about creating an immersive experience. The current approach to localizing video content involves adjusting every aspect, from graphics to interactive features, to connect with global audiences. This process blends technology with creativity, breathing life into stories in any language.

Example: We have been subtitling many training videos over the past few years. Subtitles are the text that appears on the screen to convey the spoken dialogue or narration of the video. Subtitles can help to improve the comprehension, retention, and engagement of the viewers, as well as to make the video accessible for people with hearing impairments or language barriers.

Rise of Remote Interpreting Services:

Remote interpreting platforms were gaining popularity, allowing businesses to access interpreters quickly and efficiently. Video and phone interpreting services allow individuals to engage with interpreters online rather than in person, offering a mutually beneficial arrangement. It not only eliminates geographical constraints but also provides access to a global pool of linguistic talent, all while maintaining cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

Example: We manage many legal depositions, court hearings, or employee benefit meetings. They used to be in person only, but over the past few years they shifted to remote video interpreting opportunities.

Global Regulatory Compliance:

Companies are placing greater emphasis on ensuring compliance with global regulations related to data protection and privacy, especially when dealing with multilingual content.

Multilingual compliance also involves an organization aligning its operations with legal and regulatory standards across different regions. This requires consideration of diverse languages, cultural nuances, and distinct legal frameworks. The organization must comprehend and adhere to laws related to data privacy, financial transactions, taxation, anti-money laundering (AML), and more, all in multiple languages.

Localization for E-Learning:

With the growth of online education and e-learning platforms, there was an increased demand for the localization of educational content to cater to diverse linguistic and cultural audiences.

The eLearning localization process involves customizing digital educational content to align with the linguistic, cultural, and regional preferences of a specific target audience. This encompasses the adaptation of online courses, eLearning software, training materials, and multimedia presentations to ensure that the content remains relevant and understandable for learners from diverse backgrounds.

Example:  At the onset of Covid, we provided remote video Spanish language instruction for a local elementary school.

Emerging Markets, Unfolding Possibilities:

Emerging markets represent more than just novel territories; they embody an entirely new arena of cultural intricacies and languages, presenting fresh opportunities and challenges for translation and localization. Crafting content for these varied markets demands a profound cultural comprehension of their traditions, inhabitants, and distinctive ways of life to guarantee that offerings align with their specific requirements. As businesses expand into new markets, there is a growing demand for translation and localization services for rare and emerging languages.

Example: Within the last two weeks we translated into the Dakota and Ojibwe languages!

In conclusion, the translation and localization sector represent a dynamic fusion of technological advancements and the indispensable human element. Beyond mere word translation, we are forging connections, delving into cultures, and unlocking a realm of possibilities.

The industry's commitment to embracing innovative technologies while appreciating the intricacies of diverse languages and cultures positions it for dynamic expansion and heightened significance in the global market.

If you have a translation or localization project, our team of experienced professionals is prepared to support you! We are your reliable source for enhancing culturally diverse communication.