How to Save Money on eLearning Localization

Translation services can be expensive. These tips will save you money and ensure accurate translation of your eLearning material.

1. Be concise. The largest factor in pricing is the number of words. Keep costs down by writing concisely. Writing clearly and succinctly will make the translated text crisp and understandable.

2. Send original files rather than PDFs. Efficient translators type over the original English text. This eliminates the need to reformat the entire document. It saves them time and saves you money.

3. Finalize the files first. Each revision or addition you make after translation has begun will require additional time and money. If you are translating into multiple languages, this can add up quickly.

4. Use editable graphics. Training materials often use images to illustrate complex concepts. Use editable graphics rather than graphics with embedded text.

5. Plan ahead. Translators average 2,000 words/day. This does not even include time for file preparation, editing, layout, proofreading and quality control. When a translation is needed faster, more translators and editors are assigned to the project, increasing costs.

6. Trust the professionals. It's tempting to save money by having your overseas office translate your materials. However, do you know if they are good writers? Writing ability aside, translation often becomes an added responsibility that isn't given the priority and attention it deserves.

7. Ask about technology. You should pay for translation once, not many times over. Professional translators use the latest translation memory technology (TM). It automatically recalls all the translations done for you in the past, saving you time and money.

8. Insist on quality control. Fixing errors is always more expensive than doing it right the first time. The translation company you choose should have a clearly defined production process with built-in quality control checks. This ensures accuracy throughout the project.

9. Choose a vendor you like. Besides being technologically driven, competent and reliable, the company should be easy to work with. You want to work with people who never leave you waiting.

10. Interview the Project Manager. How can you be sure that you will get good translation? Talking with the person in charge of your project will help you understand if it is in good and reliable hands. The Project Managers should be involved in a project from beginning to end, including budget development. They can be your free resource, offering suggestions about how to optimize your documents for translation.

One Planet offers a one-stop solution for all your foreign language requirements. A trusted translation leader for 30 years, we translate and localize corporate materials for the international arena in over 100 languages. Our translation, localization, interpreting, audio voiceovers, automated instant translation of emails and other services helped companies large and small reach audiences all over the world.

For more information or to request a free quote, send an email to or call 888-677-1010.