From vision to fruition: pioneering software and firmware localization for HP
HP was our first client; the story began at HP in 1994. Our two partners, who worked at HP for more than 15 years, identified a problem with the
HP had a quality issue and was getting a large number of complaints. The company it engaged to localize the software was a very large vendor that failed to dedicate sufficient time and resources to ensuring user interface quality. We knew that we could improve quality and minimize the number of problems and errors due to poor localization by doing this ourselves.
We suggested to HP that they let us manage these translations into more than 15 languages – and they agreed. And that's how it all started, with one client, albeit a very big one.
HP is still our client today, and we have steadily increased the number of departments we work with.
Transforming software and firmware localization and validation into successful projects
We handle a range of project types:
1. We translate and validate the software and firmware for large-format printers and 3D printers in more than 15 languages on a monthly basis. The software and firmware strings arrive in different formats (.json, .strings, .xml. xliff), which we then process and protect so that only the content gets translated, before returning the files for correct compilation.
All the departments that develop software or firmware for each printer model need to create and localize strings for the user interface. We receive all this content and take care of the entire localization process.
2. After localizing and compiling the software and firmware, we perform linguistic validation (linguistic testing) in more than 15 languages. The linguistic validation process involves taking screenshots in each language, and reviewing and implementing the changes to the localized files in order to recompile the software and firmware correctly.
3. On-site linguistic validation: when the validation needs to be done from the printer itself.
4. Translation of 3D-printer training materials into 5 languages.
5. Translation of marketing presentations into more than 10 languages.
6. Translation of legal documentation into more than 15 languages.
7. Translation of internal and external communications into more than 15 languages.
8. Maintenance of glossaries and translation memories.
What do we do differently with HP:
Centralized management of language needs for software and firmware
We serve as the liaison between the development teams, ensuring that HP’s software and firmware are delivered with optimal quality and consistency in more than 15 languages at the right time to ensure synchronized product availability around the world.
Consistencia terminológica a lo largo del proceso de desarrollo
Terminological consistency throughout development
We ensure the use of established translation memories and glossaries across all departments involved in the development of the software and firmware, avoiding inconsistencies and improving user experience in all markets.
Close collaboration with technical writers to enhance content
We work with technical writers to review and optimize the strings of English text before translation, correcting errors and refining the language to maximize understanding and usability.
Specialized terminology support for engineering teams
We provide linguistic guidance to engineers to ensure the use of precise and consistent terminology from the initial development phase, helping to improve the quality of the source texts.
Development of proprietary tools for the management of files and formats
We create custom technical solutions for processing files correctly and delivering translations in the required formats, allowing their seamless integration into the software compilation process.
Continuous workflow optimization
We analyze and implement improvements in language management processes to maximize efficiency, minimize errors and ensure a more agile and precise production cycle.
Tangible results: software localization that opens markets and optimizes costs
1. Expansion into new markets with well localized software
2. Reduction in the number of complaints from distributors and customers
3. More efficient software localization management
4. Reduction in the number of errors reported to R&D (translation errors)
5. Lower localization costs with the use of AI and review by humans with software expertise
Testimonials
“Very good translation. Thank you and your team for the support extended. We really appreciate it.”
HP Project Manager
for Asia Pacific Japan Customer Service Center
"Thanks for the execution of this big project!!!!"
HP
Sant Cugat del Vallés
"I would like to thank LocalizationLab for the professionalism, quality and humanity they put into everything they do. They have been providing linguistic validation services for the messages in the user interfaces of our large-format printers’ software and firmware for over five years. Since then, I have had the peace of mind of knowing that we are giving our customers all over the world great quality when it comes to explaining how our products work. I would not hesitate for a single moment to recommend LocalizationLab as a high-quality and extremely professional company."
Learning Products Program Manager
Sant Cugat del Vallès, 2020
