Once businesses decide to globalize their e-learning content, the first step is to create a strategy to localize their courses for their target market. Through localization, companies can reach a wider audience with their courses, as well as increase sales and establish an international brand for themselves.

However, the e-learning localization process can be challenging and be a waste of resources if it is not carefully planned and implemented. With the help of an e-learning translation company, the localization project will run efficiently and successfully.

Here are five common mistakes to avoid when embarking on e-learning localization.

Forgetting to Plan Ahead

During the localization process, every detail counts. From the translation of content to marketing the courses, a successful localization requires a sufficient amount of planning to make certain that every aspect of the e-learning content is addressed. To guarantee that the work runs smoothly, partner with an e-learning localization services company that will help design a project plan and put together a team to cover each aspect of the localization. By spending the time, in the beginning, to thoroughly plan the work, companies can develop course materials they are certain that it will align with the preferences of the target audience while avoiding major pitfalls.

Not Accounting for Cultural Differences

An essential part of planning is ensuring that cultural differences are taken into consideration in each element of the course. If learners do not understand the content or simply do not relate to it, they will quickly disengage. For example, a phrase might sound clever in one culture, but it could relay a vastly different message in another one. Because cultural barriers can prevent users from fully benefiting from the course, it is important to avoid using words and phrases that are exclusive to one culture or region. An e-learning translation services company that has translators who are native speakers of both the source and target languages will be able to make certain that all cultural considerations are addressed.

Using Embedded Text

The idea of embedding text into the design of the e-learning modules, along with embedding words into images and graphics, might sound like it would simplify the course design process by making elements reusable; however, it makes the localization process more challenging. Because of the difficulties involved with essentially dismantling the content within the visuals, it is better to avoid utilizing charts, images, and graphics that contain embedded text. However, if it is necessary to embed words, then design the visuals in all potential languages at the same time since it will be easier to modify the source images at the beginning of the localization process.

Not Accommodating for Text Expansion

When designing the layout for the localized e-learning courses, one of the key points to remember is that the target language will often need a different amount of space than the source language. As an example, a translation from English to Finnish would require about 60% more space. If the different spacing requirements are not considered, then the end result will be e-learning modules that are not visually appealing. To accommodate for various space needs, make certain there is plenty of room in the text placeholders. Conversely, the space can also be adjusted for languages that take up less room.

Ignoring Translating Audio and Video Scripts

Since audio and video components typically make up a large part of e-learning content, it is especially vital to ensure that all content within them is localized. To accomplish this, the voiceover scripts have to be translated and localized to suit the audience. The first step is to create a thorough pronunciation and translation term guide. In addition, make certain that the scripts are carefully reviewed before the material is recorded.

Along with the scripts, captions and subtitles need to be localized as well. Because viewers often rely heavily on captions and subtitles while they watch a video, it is particularly critical that these two elements resonate with them.

As interest in e-learning continues to boom, localizing courses will help businesses bring their courses to an international audience. To get the best results from the localization, seek an e-learning translation company that has a proven record of success with e-learning solutions.

Summary

Once businesses decide to globalize their e-learning content, the first step is to create a strategy to localize their courses for their target market. Take a look at the five most common mistakes to avoid when embarking on e-learning localization.