6 Attributes you should consider while selecting a Language Service Provider

Localization is key for companies expanding to new markets worldwide, but choosing the right vendor to localize your brand and products can be challenging. Fear not – we have listed 6 attributes to consider when selecting a Language Service Provider for your localization needs:

1. Communication

It’s important to have an open communication channel between both companies, in which the translators feel free to ask you questions and specifics about the project rather than guessing at your preferences. That gives your translation higher quality and adherence to your brand strategies. Good communication also ensures your project plan and deadlines are met and setbacks are handled in a timely manner. One way to find out if the vendor you’re hiring is responsive is to ask one of their current clients about their experiences and perceptions.

2. Customization

It’s vital to work with an LSP that understands your goals and then develops a process that works for you rather than having to adapt to a fixed strategy that might not be the best for your company. One key attitude to keep in mind is if the vendor is proactive and takes time to make recommendations to improve your process when they see opportunities to do so.

3. Strategy

You want to hire a vendor that is focused on your big picture and what you want to achieve. With a more strategic approach, you can build together a translation management plan that would help you monitor your project, avoid risks and keep track of its ROI, increased revenues, and any other metrics that support your strategy.

4. Partnership

You should hire a vendor that is focused on building a partnership with you in the long run through many projects and years to come and that is 100% committed to your success. An LSP that takes time to get to know your preferences and handle requests and is just as concerned as you with conveying a clear and consistent message in another language often assigns you a team that understands your industry and its needs.

5. Confidentiality

Some agencies offer lower rates, but you should be careful as they could be working on a crowdsourcing model that doesn’t prioritize confidentiality. It’s essential that you look for a company that will keep your information secure, especially when it comes to copyrighted materials or confidential content. A good way of finding out if the vendor you are about to hire cares about security is to make sure their collaborators have to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements before working on a new project or with a new client.

6. Solutions

Some contents need to be adapted to a specific usage/technology, such as graphics and multimedia. Some agencies only provide translation services while more robust vendors are able to support your current and future localization needs. Ask the prospect about their solutions for your entire workflow, such as software testing, desktop publishing, project and account management, vendor management, multimedia localization, and other services you require.

Talk to us to find out how we can build a custom solution for your needs.

This article was originally published on our Linkedin page.