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Localization

Internationalization

Internationalization prepares software and content to support multiple languages, regions, and formats.

Internationalization prepares software and content to support multiple languages, regions, and formats. Technology, content, and processes must account for language, region, search behavior, and local conventions together. The concept is closely related to Localization and Locale.

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Localization

Locale

Multilingual URL Structure

FAQ

Internationalization

What typical mistakes occur in internationalization?
Typical mistakes are strings scattered through code instead of managed centrally, concatenated sentences that fail in other languages, and layouts that break with longer words. Missing locale-based formatting and images with embedded text add to the list. A pseudo-localization test with artificially lengthened text reveals many problems early.
When should internationalization start in a project?
As early as possible, since retrofitting is expensive. Fixed text lengths, text embedded in images, or hard-coded date formats can later be changed only through rework. Languages with a different writing direction also require layout decisions. Even if only one language is planned at first, an internationalization-ready base can save effort later.
What is the difference between internationalization and localization?
Internationalization builds the technical foundation; localization uses it for a specific market. The foundation includes Unicode, replaceable text, flexible layouts, and formats for date, number, and currency. Localization then translates and adapts content, images, and legal details. If the foundation is skipped, every language becomes a special project.