Software Localization is more than just translations: its about adapting your content to the needs of the local market. There are many aspects to consider when localizing software for overseas markets in this way. Your software may shows prices in dollars – what currency do you need for France? In what format will you display dates? What units of measurement should you use – metric or imperial? Then we go one step further and assess the cultural impact of your content, helping you avoid the kind of faux-pas that can really limit a product's success.
In Japan, for example, the number "4" is represented by the same kanji character as is used for the word "death": far better to re-name a product for the Japanese market than spend significant marketing budget promoting a product with unwanted associations of this kind. Similarly, the number 8 is a lucky number in China, so many gambling organisations make use of this association and include an 8 in their names.
As you expand globally, you need to take care of these cultural issues and localize your message for every target market. Successful organisations use this "global" approach, applying a global strategy while focussing on a local marketing approach.

