SimulTrans provides full localization of eLearning infrastructure software and content, including translation, audio recording, engineering, and testing.
Founded in 1984, SimulTrans began the localization of computer-based training modules accompanying applications localized for our software clients in the early 1990s.
In 1997, SimulTrans vastly expanded its eLearning translation capabilities as a result of adding a significant producer of computer-based training software as a customer. In the ensuing two-year relationship, SimulTrans localized 40 computer-based training (CBT) titles into 5 languages, providing full translation, multimedia authoring and engineering, voice- over, and testing services for stand-alone and web-based applications.
During this relationship, our client merged with additional eLearning software producers, ultimately selecting SimulTrans to work with the larger group of companies and titles.
As the industry has evolved, SimulTrans has expanded its experience with the localization of training materials, now additionally providing extensive translation, engineering, and testing services for a wide array of e-learning infrastructure software and content. SimulTrans also localizes application-specific CBT modules for clients.
Computer-Based Training Engineering
SimulTrans has built-up a significant level of expertise and infrastructure for multimedia and CBT engineering. Working with applications such as Adobe Captivate and Flash, Camtasia Studio, and many other commercial and proprietary tools, SimulTrans is able to provide full localization engineering services for training titles.
Internationalization
SimulTrans can provide internationalization advice about source materials (such as externalizing text into easily translatable XML files). We have helped a number of eLearning developers improve their engines, content, and processes.
Screen Captures
Many eLearning titles require the insertion of screen captures, both still and moving. SimulTrans is experienced in creating software simulations, both through animation of still screen captures and through screen recording software. We maintain libraries of localized operating systems and common applications (such as Microsoft Office and Lotus Notes) to facilitate the authoring process and ensure we translate commands consistently with the applications to which they refer.
Testing
In addition to providing a platform for screen captures and terminology, the localized operating systems are useful for testing the localized titles. SimulTrans has a full software quality assurance department skilled in reviewing functionality and user interface layout. The QA engineers also work with linguists who review terminology to verify translations are correct and display properly in context. SimulTrans takes the QA process very seriously, segregating the QA staff from engineers, logging all bugs, and performing regression testing after defects have been corrected. With eLearning titles, testing is important to verify hotspots are in the correct places, animations display properly, terminology is consistent, and user input is handled appropriately.
Sound Recording
Many CBT titles require accompanying sound recording. SimulTrans provides voice-over work for clients in two ways: 1. Working with professional voice talent in external studios, and 2. Internally recording less formal passages using linguists in our offices. We find both approaches work well and the appropriate method is chosen based on client requirements.
SimulTrans previously used only external professional voice talent for sound recording, until requested by a client to reduce costs by adopting a less formal approach for a project. At that time, we invested in high-end recording equipment from one of our clients (a well-known microphone manufacturer) and software. Using these tools and in-house linguists, we have been able to produce well-accepted, near- professional-quality recordings which have suited the needs of our customers looking for a less expensive approach to multilanguage voice-over work. Over half of SimulTrans’ voice recording work is now done internally.
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