Overview of ISO Standards for Localization

What is ISO Certification in Localization?

ISO certification for localization refers to globally recognized standards ensuring that localization processes meet specific quality benchmarks. These certifications, such as ISO 17100, are designed to standardize processes, enhance quality assurance, and foster trust between localization vendors and their clients.

Key ISO Standards in Localization

• ISO 17100: Sets requirements for translation services, including qualifications for translators, project management, and quality assurance.
• ISO 18587: Focuses on post-editing of machine translation output, ensuring quality and consistency in AI-assisted workflows.
• ISO 9001: A broader quality management standard applicable across industries, often integrated with ISO 17100 for localization workflows.

ISO 9001 vs. ISO 17100

While ISO 9001 addresses general quality management systems, ISO 17100 is tailored specifically for translation and localization, with detailed requirements for linguistic expertise, workflow management, and client collaboration.

II. Benefits of ISO Certification in Localization

For Localization Vendors

• Enhanced Quality Assurance: Ensures consistent, high-quality deliverables.
• Improved Credibility: Builds trust with clients, enabling access to larger projects and new markets.

For Content Buyers

• Guaranteed Quality: Provides assurance of meeting international standards.
• Streamlined Vendor Selection: Simplifies the process of identifying reliable vendors.

Relevance to the Entertainment Industry

For production companies, distributors, and streamers, ISO-certified localization ensures precise dubbing, subtitling, and cultural adaptation, reducing errors and ensuring global appeal.

 Steps to Achieve ISO Certification

Certification Process

1. Pre-Audit Assessment: Evaluate current processes against ISO standards.
2. Documentation: Develop detailed policies, workflows, and quality controls.
3. Training: Educate teams on ISO requirements and best practices.
4. Audit: Engage a certification body for formal evaluation.

Choosing Certification Bodies

• Select organizations accredited by international bodies like the International Accreditation Forum (IAF).

ISO 17100 Certification Checklist

• Translator qualifications and competencies.
• Effective project management processes.
• Documented quality assurance protocols.

Challenges and Costs of ISO Certification

Common Compliance Challenges

• Resource-Intensive Audits: Requires time and financial investment.
• Process Adjustments: Vendors may need to revamp workflows and documentation.

Financial Investment

Certification costs vary based on company size, scope, and the chosen certifying body.

Risks of Non-Certification

• Reduced credibility in competitive markets.
• Limited access to high-value contracts requiring certified vendors.

Best Practices for ISO-Certified Localization Workflows

Optimizing Processes

• Standardize workflows using tools like CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) and QA software.

QA Tools and Technologies

• Leverage platforms that integrate ISO compliance checks, ensuring accuracy in translation and localization.

Maintaining Compliance

• Schedule regular internal audits and training sessions to stay aligned with ISO standards.

Use Cases and Emerging Trends

Case Studies

• Netflix: Utilized ISO-certified vendors for multilingual subtitling to maintain global consistency.
• Sony Pictures: Ensured high-quality localization through ISO-certified AI translation providers.

Emerging Trends

• AI Integration: ISO 18587 is shaping how vendors incorporate AI-assisted tools for post-editing.
• Specialization Standards: New certifications for niche localization services like game localization are emerging.