Localization Testing: Some Key Considerations Localization is an important testing process thatspecifically tests a software application and customizes it to make it fit for use in different languages for users in different geographical regions. It also ensures that the product is suitable for use in the particular language as per the local culture. And in doing so, during the process of localization defects are identified, captured and fixed by localization experts. While planning for localization testing care should be taken to test every aspect of the software application. Even though translation is important, however, it does not make the product 100 % ready for local use. It is, therefore, essential to verify the other features and components like the time format, numerals, symbols, icons, graphics, etc. The main focus of the localization process is to test these features and ensure accurate rendering of the same.
To make the localization process smooth and specific, a testing strategy is of utmost importance. A comprehensive and well-planned testing strategy helps software providers to release local version of their software product in the market successfully. Keeping in view of this, there must be some key considerations to be made before planning for a test strategy. These considerations would be: Testing Scope: This includes identifying the target language(s), testing platform and test case coverage. This stage also focuses on new and specific features and components available. Test Case Development: This is based on the features and components that are available and required for Quality Assurance (QA). This consideration should, however, include the following aspects as well:
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Checking of the installer and uninstaller process: Authenticating the User Interface (UI) defects, such as missing, untranslated, broken texts, etc.
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Checking of functional issues caused by localization: Authenticating the consistency of localization of documentations, multimedia interface resources, online help, etc.
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Checking for adherence to the system as per input and display environment standards: Authenticating elements such as; character types, appropriate fonts, reading and writing of external files, GUI, etc.
Testing Execution Arrangement: For typical localization testings, the following aspects must be considered: •
Build verification testing: This is a small division of functional testing which is performed before QA.
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Normal testing: This includes testing to identify log defects during execution.
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Regression testing: This is done to ensure that the defects are fixed and closed effectively.
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Final sign-off: This includes the final check through before client delivery.
Test Cases and Defect Management:The cases should be well-maintained on a centralized management platform to keep a record of the test results. In doing this, it will be easier to identify and categorize the defects as: •
Localization: Bugs that are identified and fixed during the process of localization. These should be recorded in the tracking system for later communication with the client's development team.
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Global and core: Bugs that are produced in multiple language versions and can lead to coding errors in the source, thus, affecting the localization process. These are normally fixed by the client's software development team.
Automation Testing: Automated testing solutions are considered for some software localization projects. This is because this testing solution is not appropriate for all software localization projects barring from some that are either big or have repeat testing requests. This kind of testing is also ideal as a long-term cost-saving consideration. Automation testing is specifically used for screen shooting, UI testing and functional testing for both web testing and normal software testing. Mobile App Localization Testing: Localization testing of mobile apps are far more complex than that of web apps. While testing mobile apps special care should be given to the various features like multiple operating systems, screen size, various input methods like type or touch. Care must be taken while testing to see that big and bold fonts are used in keeping with the screen size. This should be done to avoid text related issues like truncated text or misaligned text.
As we know that translation is one of the important aspects of localization, based on varying locale and culture, it requires a well-thought out strategy and localization plan to deliver flawless products to ensure on-time delivery with no defects and at reduced costs. Words: (695) Summary: It is, therefore, important to consider certain aspects of localization to ensure that a defect-free software application is released for use by users of different languages and geographical locations. Keyword: Localization testing Author: The Translation & Globalization Testing Services team at QA InfoTech is responsible for conducting tests to yield maximum test results in the shortest possible test cycle time. QA InfoTech (an ISO 9001:2008 & CMMI III certified) is one of the leading Software Testing Companies with “Centers of Excellence� in the United States and India. It is an independent software testing company providing Load and Performance tuning services.