A Problem That Wastes Your Time

We spoke with over 200 designers, developers, and product managers, and one thing is clear: managing translation keys is a time-consuming and unrewarding task. That’s why we decided to create Gleef, a Figma plugin that automates the creation and management of translation keys while ensuring precise contextual localization. If you want to understand the problem and our thought process in more detail, check out this article: Revolutionizing Localization: Our Journey, Challenges, and Ambitions.

A Two-Step Solution

We designed Gleef with two complementary parts:

1. Automatic generation of translation keys
2. Contextual localization of all wording

Let’s dive into how these features can simplify your workflow.

Step One: Automatic Generation of Translation Keys

Gleef analyzes your Figma files to automatically create translation keys while considering the design context. Here’s what makes this feature powerful:

• Context-aware generation: No more absurd key names based on frame titles. Our AI understands the use of each text element. A login button will always be identified correctly, no matter where it is.
• Smart duplicate prevention: Gleef detects duplicates and avoids unnecessary variations (“Sign in,” “Login,” “Log in” are handled intelligently).
• Direct integration in Figma: Manage your keys without leaving Figma, eliminating the need to switch between tools.
• Existing key analysis: Before creating new keys, Gleef checks if they already exist, reducing redundancy.

Step Two: Contextual Localization of Keys

The second part of our plugin translates keys while preserving their meaning and context. Unlike traditional translation memories that recognize only exact matches, Gleef uses a dynamic memory that detects semantic similarities and ensures consistency throughout the project. For the AI nerds out there, we use RAG to improve the semantic search.

• Context-aware translation: Gleef doesn’t just translate word for word but considers the overall context to ensure each term is used correctly.
• Flexible usage: You can use Gleef solely for translation without generating new keys.
• Guaranteed consistency: To maintain uniformity across the project, Gleef intelligently reuses existing translations.

How to Use Gleef in 5 Steps

Using Gleef is simple and intuitive. Here’s how to integrate it into your workflow:

Before you start following the steps you can download our plugin right here Gleef - Translate and localize with AI Let’s start!‍

Import your localization files: Upload your existing files to get started.

Select the source language: Define the reference language (usually your Figma designs’ language).

Choose the screens or frames to translate: Localize one or multiple screens in your project.

Adjust translations and keys: Maintain full control over translations and modify keys before exporting.

Export ready-to-use files: Retrieve your translated keys in .csv or .json format and integrate them directly into your workflow.

By using our plugin, you will save valuable time and ensure perfect consistency in your translations. No more endless back-and-forths and translation errors!

Moreover, Gleef makes collaboration between designers, developers, and localization managers seamless. No more searching for keys manually or wondering if a text has already been translated – everything is visible directly in Figma. If you want to understand our plugin’s functionality in more detail, check out our article: Keys, Translation, and Context: Dive Into the Heart of Our Plugin.

A Quick Summary: Gleef Benefits

• A smoother workflow: Fewer team frictions and a clearer process.
• Higher translation quality: Fewer errors and greater consistency.
• A massive time-saver: No more manually managing translation files.
• Fast onboarding: Intuitive interface and direct integration into Figma.

Our goal is clear: eliminate errors, improve consistency, and save you valuable time. Gleef is not just a plugin it’s a revolution in translation management for product teams.