Internationalization involves making software and hardware compatible with different languages, including encoding keys for different alphabets and localizing keyboards for specific cultures. It also includes translating units of measure and addressing language script differences. Translation software is a simple method of internationalization, but caution should be used to avoid mistakes. The goal of internationalization is globalization, promoting a “global community” that focuses on unity.
The term internationalization applies to making software and hardware compatible with different languages. Since not all languages use the same alphabet, one goal is to get a standard English keyboard that can be applied to different alphabets. Another concern relates to the different symbols that can be present in languages other than English, such as accented letters. Also, internationalization addresses the way language scripts, which can differ significantly from English.
When internationalization is applied to languages that use different alphabets, the keys are encoded to replace the standard English alphabets. The alphabets vary in length, and some keys may need to be omitted to exactly replicate the alphabets of other languages. Keyboards can also be localized to a specific culture to address significant differences in alphabets. Localization describes attempts by the software or hardware manufacturer to tailor items such as keyboards to a specific market. For example, an Arabic keyboard or a Russian keyboard would need to be localized to sell well in an Arabic or Russian market.
In some cases, internationalization does not need to localize products, as the alphabets are similar enough to use the QWERTYUIOP keyboard form. Often programs like Microsoft Word have built-in shortcuts for symbols that differ from English. Letters with accents can usually be added using the Insert menu to insert accented letters. This takes a little more time than simply typing a word with an accent, but cutting and pasting or creating accent shortcuts can be easily accomplished and generally doesn’t require additional software.
Internationalization also includes translating units of measure. For example, wiseGEEK uses two forms of measurement to cater to American, British, and other English-speaking audiences. We use both the usual US unit of measurement – ounces, inches or pounds – and the metric measurement – grams, centimeters or kilograms. This form of internationalization improves communication regarding size or weight information. In some cases, such as in most medical and scientific language, we rely more on the metric system because science has universally adopted this form.
The internationalization of measurements is greatly simplified by many free software programs that quickly convert measurements. There are similar programs for dealing with differences such as currency values. Internationalization in currency discussion is vital and even a bit difficult. Currency values change rapidly, so programs that convert currency need to be aware of world markets. Current information is best obtained from Internet sources, and currency calculators make converting dollars to euros or yen much easier.
Internationalization also needs to address the way language scripts. Is it read horizontally or vertically? Do you read left to right or right to left? Programs that deal with alphabetic changes can also deal with scripting differences, particularly when hardware or software is localized.
A simple method of internationalization is to use translation software, often freely available on the Internet. You can type a sentence in English and translate it into virtually any language. You should use caution with this method if you are not fluent in the language you are translating into. Mistakes are common, particularly when using idioms, and can often result in poor communication.
Internationalization has globalization as its goal. The Internet has given all its users the opportunity to speak or write to people from very different cultures and linguistic backgrounds. With most free or cheap internationalization software, the goal of globalization could ultimately promote a true “global community,” which replaces the concept of state or country and focuses on the unity of the world’s population.
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