Internationalization

Definition

The configurability quality subfactor, internationalization, is the degree to which an application or component can be or is configured to function appropriately in a global environment.

Internationalization is also known as:

Internationalization is typically measured in terms of:

Typical mechanisms for achieving internationalization include:

The following guidelines have been found to be useful regarding internationalization:

Internationalization involves addressing:
- Native languages, language idioms, spelling, and character sets.
- Formats of contact information such as name, address, and phone number.
- Currencies including real-time currency conversion.
- Legal issues such as import/export laws, tariff and sales tax calculations, customs documentation, trademarks, and privacy laws.
- Culture (e.g., use of inappropriate colors, symbols, or product names).
Internationalization is far more than merely translating the content and user interface of an application.
Internationalization cannot easily be added to a local application after it has been developed and placed into production. Many mechanisms for implementing internationalization are best included from the beginning when they are much easier and less expensive to implement.
Remember than numerous countries contain sizable user groups that speak different languages (e.g., English and Spanish in the United States, English and French in Canada, and German, French, and Italian in Switzerland). Thus, internationalization should be based on an analysis of the relevant operational requirements and the results of the User Analysis task.
Ensure that native speakers are used for the translation part of internationalization in order to avoid the classic problems of brand and product names that are inappropriate or offensive.