Building a business is no easy task. Established and successful companies want to be able to sustain themselves after building a strong foundation. So, they need to be able to meet the demands of the diverse market. It is no question that in order to compete and survive in a global market, business owners and decision makers must provide accessibility of resources for their employees and customers. Providing resources in optional languages is key to doing this. Of course, organizations also want systems in place that will not only provide authentic content, but those that are cost-effective as well.
Business owners may feel overwhelmed thinking, “We have content in English already, but how on earth will we be able to get this translated properly?” Content may come in the form of videos, literature and so much more. The answer to this is XML Formatting. These file extensions produce common information formats that can be easily accessed on platforms such as the internet. XML formats can rescue you from headaches and formatting nightmares. When working with a language service provider (LSP), it is essential to provide materials in XML format to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Take a look at why this matters:
Simplicity is key
Gone are the days of using a human translator, as they are no longer productive or cost effective enough for a fast moving business. With the simple use of XML formats, translation memory software can transfer information in a simple process. Translation memory securely keeps track of translation database per language, per client. Translation memory is simply a secure database of your translated content segmented by language per client. This, in turn, reduces cost, turnaround time and ensures consistency. Information in XML formats are easy to read and understand. Computers are able to process this information with ease.
A lot of room for flexibility
Employers are required to provide their workforce with government regulated training. For a restaurant staff, they need information and training regarding food safety and this can come in the form of e-Learning courses. The tags and attributes associated with your material can be tricky to handle. Keeping this information in XML format will ensure a seamless translation. Plus, XML formats allow you to change tags at any given time to reflect needed changes. For instance, food safety laws can change depending on research, trends, etc. Not having to go back and change all of the content makes it very easy for businesses to adjust their information tags in no time. This is also beneficial if there is a need to add more language dialects.
Supportive of multiple data types
Let’s face it: many learners retain information better through the use of different multimedia. This would include the use of images, videos and sound. These genres of data can be complex when it comes to accurate and cohesive translation. Imagine having to translate an hour long video on Driver’s Safety for commercial truck drivers. It would take a lot of manpower and time, with the chance for inaccuracies. This training could consist of a combination of videos, assessments and documents. Using XML formatting allows for any type of multimedia to be transmitted, efficiently and correctly.
Universally accepted
All businesses want to be unique and stand out from the rest. Positive employee retention and customer engagement stems from businesses who are ahead of the conventional game. Being different is great, but there is also a need to meet a universal standard. Regardless of the business market you are categorized in, you can be certain that XML is the standard format, everywhere. It is the most endorsed format in the software industry market. This encodable format is readable by either a computer or a human. It is the default for a multitude of productivity tools.
It is evident that software developers have increased the efficiency of how businesses can reach and educate their employees. Due to the popularity and demand for electronic translation software, it is essential that businesses work in partnership with language service providers in sharing content in XML formats. For fast and precise translations, it is a no-brainer. It is also important to note that without the proper training, XML can be complex in it of itself so, having a reputable language service provider helps bring the pieces together for you. They are able to translate and localize all of your content and in return, you receive true, rendered material to help you deliver an effective learning management system. From there, your employees will be well-versed in your company mission and be able to provide great customer service. In turn, you sustain an amazing business.
Is your business in need of a translation service? Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can improve your workflow!