Best Practices For Multi-Language Websites

We don’t live in a world where everyone speaks the same language. We don’t even live in a city where everyone speaks the same language. It’s vital to have a professional translation of your website in order to effectively reach non-English speaking clients.

Recently on SpinRadio, we got to interview Martin George, CEO of LTC Language Solutions. LTC offers language training, cultural training, and interpretation services. Martin offered some important insight into setting up a multi-language website.

Who Benefits From a Multi-Language Site?

Any organization who does business overseas will benefit from having a multi-language website. Locally, a multi-language website can bring in non-English speaking clients from your area. For example, a hospital with a multi-language site in Spanish and English will reach more people than a hospital with an English only website.

If you are doing business with non-English speaking clients, you would benefit from a multi-language site.

Why Should I Use a Professional Translator?

Machine translations, such as Google Translate, are only about 70% accurate. Despite all the programming, a machine can’t think so it cannot be as accurate as a human translator. At only 70% accuracy, there are many thoughts that will be lost in translation. Use a professional to avoid costly or offensive mis-translation.

What is the Professional Translation Process?

LTC Language Solutions makes the translations process easy. They extract the text and put it into a bilingual table so it’s easier for the translator and proofer to get at the terms and manage the process. Then they use a Flow system that they developed to get the translated version back to the client. The client can then use the bilingual table and the translation on their site and in other marketing materials.

Using a professional will also allow your site to be more effective at reaching a target audience by just creating a micro site. A client in China does not need to know about the upcoming community picnic in Indianapolis. A professional would be able to sift through the material on the site and translate only what is relevant and useful for international clients. This saves time and money.

What Happens After the Site Translation?

After your site has been translated, it’s a good idea to have someone on-board who can answer questions for your clients. If your new non-English speaking clients fill out a form on your site, you need to be prepared to respond in their language. This can be done by someone in house, or through a company like LTC Solutions.