Coping with the Time-to-Market Factor in Software Localisation Projects

This paper discusses the importance of using computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools in software localisation projects, and sheds light on their key importance for the success of translators who are involved in the localisation industry. The main focus is on the vital role played by tools such as translation memory (TM) systems and terminology management packages to help translators cope with the pressure exerted by the time-to-market factor in real-life scenarios. The paper provides some background information about localisation in general, and presents in more detail a number of practical issues that illustrate the crucial impact of CAT tools on software localisation projects. Finally, the importance of project management in localisation-oriented processes is emphasised and some new emerging working practices for translators are outlined.