From Costly to Cost-Effective: How AI Transforms Localization

Why AI is Transforming Localization?

Automation of Repetitive Tasks

Repetitive and often tedious tasks, such as translating standard segments or aligning files, are now handled by AI tools. This frees up time for translators and developers, eliminating the need for back-and-forth exchanges and allowing them to work in a more streamlined environment. I explored a business software and service review platform, examining feedback from several localization companies. I've highlighted a recent review among many that illustrates the impact AI is having on localization.

Improving Quality

AI doesn’t just automate; it learns. With machine learning and integrated glossaries, errors are minimized, and term consistency is ensured, even in the most complex projects. This reduces mistakes and provides a more effective, context-aware translation that reflects the brand's tone. For example, if I browse Airbnb and switch between British and American English, the translation adapts to the cultural preferences of each country. For more examples, feel free to read the article "Translation vs. Localization: How to Speak Your Audience's Language".

Reducing Time-to-Market

One of AI's key advantages is its ability to shorten the localization cycle. A process that used to take weeks is now significantly accelerated through automation and AI's capacity to handle multiple workflows simultaneously. Here's a simplified example of a localization process: in the first diagram, localization powered by AI streamlines and speeds up the process. Conversely, in the second diagram, selecting a word and its translation involves consulting with others and using traditional translation systems, which substantially increases the time required for localization.

The Impact on Return on Investment (ROI)

Reducing Operational Costs

AI significantly lowers the costs associated with localization operations. Tasks such as translating recurring segments, verifying formats, or integrating with content management tools—which previously required time-consuming human intervention—are now automated. Let’s take a closer look with an example from Coursera, an American e-learning platform with over 136 million learners worldwide.

“Thanks to AI, translating a course now costs us $20, compared to $13,000 previously.” Jeff Maggioncalda, CEO at Coursera

Coursera successfully translated nearly 4,000 courses into 17 languages, including French (their fifth-largest market), in record time. This achievement would not have been possible without AI, for two main reasons: time and cost efficiency. Traditional translation methods would have cost over $50 million, compared to just $260,000 using AI. This dramatic cost reduction allows companies to reallocate resources to strategic priorities, such as creating tailored content.

Rapid Expansion into New Markets

AI accelerates market expansion by making the localization process faster and more cost-effective. What once took months to localize a product or service into multiple languages can now be achieved in just a few weeks.

During an Asian market entry, the language learning platform Duolingo used AI-driven localization to significantly reduce its content adaptation timeline. With AI tools like machine translation and automated workflows, Duolingo localized its interface, lessons, and user experience in under 10 days, compared to the several weeks or months required by traditional methods. This rapid turnaround was facilitated by customized AI models trained on the target market's linguistic and cultural specifics, allowing the company to quickly launch and compete in this market

Key Steps to Maximize AI ROI in Localization

Choosing the Right Tools

As you can see, selecting the right localization tool can really make a difference in terms of time savings and cost-efficiency. With so many platforms available, it’s not always easy to find the one that fits your needs. Here at Gleef, we love words and localization, and we're here to simplify the process with solutions tailored to your projects. If you'd like to learn more, feel free to visit our LinkedIn page.

A few additional tips: understanding that algorithm transparency and technical support play a critical role in tool adoption and effectiveness. Also, prioritize solutions offering advanced features like automated multilingual glossaries to ensure optimal quality and consistency in your translations. Lastly, if I may recommend a tool, Webyn not only helps measure performance but also integrates interactive features, such as bug reporting from end-users.

Conclusion

Having worked in the copywriting and localization space for a few months now, I've already seen how AI is completely transforming our industry. Looking ahead, I strongly believe AI will revolutionize the way we adapt content for different markets and audiences. The efficiency gains I've witnessed aren't just about speed and cost – they're fundamentally changing what's possible in localization. As teams adopt these AI tools and discover their potential, we're seeing not just automated translations, but more nuanced, culturally-adapted content that truly resonates with local audiences. It's exciting to be part of this transformation and watch as companies of all sizes gain access to capabilities that were once out of reach.

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