What Is Software Localization Testing?

Learn about the different types of software localization testing in this blog and discover tactics for successful software localization  + Free Software Localization Checklist. 

If you have an app and want to sell it abroad, then you already know that it needs to get localized.  But how much do you know about software testing? Once the software has gone through internationalization and localization, the next step is testing. 

What Is Software Testing?

 After localization is completed, software typically needs to be compiled to incorporate the localized strings into the executable application. In most projects, the most critical testing focuses on the linguistic correctness of the translation and the appropriate appearance of the localized user interface. 

Linguistic Testing

Once localization is completed and the software is recompiled in the target languages, the software is tested using linguistically-focused testers who examine the localized software. During this phase, testers verify the correct use of terminology in context, look for incomplete translations, and check spelling and grammar.

User Interface Testing

During this testing, testers ensure no controls are truncated, test the shortcut keys, and ensure that the software looks correct from a user perspective. Note that some user interface tests can be automated (e.g., truncated text in controls).

In addition to linguistic and user interface testing, which are typically included in the scope of a software localization testing phase, there are additional testing services that might be required for some projects.

Internationalization Testing

This is when testers focus on the executable software, check for correctness of user input in various character sets, and verify the accurate display and processing of locale-specific information, including time and date formats, currency, numbers, and sorting.

Functionality Testing

When doing functionality testing of localized software, testers check for correct software operation (over and above the user interface appearance). Note that testers typically employ the test plans and scripts (usually provided by the client) created to test the original source-language software.  

Compatibility Testing

This is when testers test the localized software with target-language operating systems and localized supporting applications, such as browsers.  In compatibility testing, additional types of hardware can be used with different operating system versions and configurations depending on client requirements.

As you can see, there are many different types of software localization testing for software products. Discover tactics for successful software localization in our free Software Localization Checklist.