Lokalise is a leading translation management system (TMS) that has gained popularity among developers and localization teams for its ability to streamline the localization process. As a cloud-based platform, it offers a modern alternative to traditional localization tools, which can often be outdated and costly. Lokalise focuses on simplifying the complexities associated with localization, enabling teams to manage their translation projects with ease and efficiency.
The platform supports a wide array of file formats, including .xml, .strings, .json, and .xliff, allowing users to translate localization files without hassle. One of the standout features of Lokalise is its collaboration and management capabilities, which allow teams to work together on software localization projects from a centralized platform, improving coordination and oversight.
Integration is another critical aspect of Lokalise; it connects seamlessly with various services such as GitHub, Slack, JIRA, and Sketch. This integration capability, combined with automated workflows through APIs and webhooks, ensures that localization can be smoothly incorporated into the development and deployment processes. Users can also benefit from real-time previews of translations, allowing them to see how the translations will appear in applications, ensuring that they fit the intended design and context.
Lokalise is particularly well-suited for cross-platform localization, enabling users to manage strings for web, iOS, Android, and other platforms all in one place. This feature simplifies the process of executing simultaneous translations across different platforms, making it easier for teams to deliver consistent messaging across all user touchpoints.
In addition to its robust management and automation features, Lokalise offers users the option to order professional translations or utilize machine translation services. This flexibility allows teams to choose the most appropriate method for their specific needs, whether they require high-quality human translations or faster machine-generated translations.
Lokalise is versatile, applicable to various use cases, including software localization for mobile apps and games, website localization for e-commerce platforms, and digital content translation for marketing materials and documents. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for organizations looking to expand their international presence and deliver localized content effectively.
To get started with Lokalise, users typically follow a series of steps, beginning with the initial setup where they upload their source text or localization files. Following this, teams can invite in-house translators or third-party agencies to translate and review the content for accuracy. The platform supports both human and machine translation options, allowing for flexibility in translation quality and speed.
Once the translations are in progress, users can leverage Lokalise’s integration capabilities to set up automated workflows. This reduces manual tasks and accelerates the localization process, allowing for quicker project delivery. The platform also provides real-time previews of translations, ensuring that the final output meets quality expectations before being exported for end-user delivery.
Despite its many advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind when evaluating Lokalise. While the platform is user-friendly, new users may encounter a learning curve as they become familiar with its features. Additionally, the cost of using Lokalise may vary based on the scale of the project and the required features, although a 14-day free trial is available to help organizations assess its suitability.
In summary, Lokalise is a powerful translation management system that stands out for its user-friendly interface, comprehensive integration capabilities, and automation features. It offers a robust solution for managing translation projects efficiently, making it a worthwhile investment for organizations looking to enhance their localization efforts and expand their global reach.