Website and Application Localization for Uklon

International expansion requires more than translation, it requires high-quality localisation with consideration to the cultural differences of the market and new audiences. We were able to provide it by:

• engaging native speakers for translation,
• using professional translation tools and a glossary, and
• conducting LQA of the localised versions.

After finishing the main body of localisation, we continue to provide continuous localisation: we receive json or .xls files every week and process them in SmartCAT using the approved glossary. There are usually from 300–500 to 1,200 words for translation in each language pair. The deadline is 1–2 days depending on the volume.

In this project, we pay special attention to the difference in the way of addressing customers and partners. In Ukraine, Uklon prefers an informal manner of addressing users, while in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, a more formal tone is customary. We have made a joint decision to simplify and unify the process: we use a formal style of address for the drivers, and informal for the passengers.

The following departments are responsible for different localisation aspects at the customer’s organisation: the Rider and Driver product team arranges the website and applications localisation, and the Marketing department takes care of adaptation for all communications and creative materials, the knowledge base, chat bots and some articles for the website.

At the customer’s request, we invited native speakers with deep insight into the language and culture of the country to work on the project. Such knowledge is essential for the localisation process. They understand the intricacies of the grammar, slang, idioms and differences between written and spoken language. Moreover, native speakers are aware of the cultural background and norms of the country, so they can correct or adapt the content, or propose alternatives that would be more understandable and acceptable for the target audience.

With well-coordinated teamwork, we were able to:

• preserve terminological and tonal consistency by using the same vendors,
• save the customer’s money for translation of the same words and phrases by using a glossary, and
• observe deadlines and return the ready project to the customer on time.