How To Build Successful eLearning Localization Teams
Some organizations think that when it comes to eLearning localization, it is as simple as translating the online training content to the local language. While translation allows you to help the end user read the online training content, the process of localization enables them to understand it properly. When localizing online training, you not only translate the online training content but also adapt it to the specific culture and context of the end user. Thus, eLearning localization allows your employees to comprehend the online training content with ease and pick up on the training much quicker. Building eLearning localization teams can help you easily manage the process. Here are 6 tips on how you can go about it.
1. Hire Local Subject Matter Experts
The Subject Matter Expert is an expert in their field. They have loads of experience, knowledge, and insights regarding the online training topic. This enables them to create online training courses that are relevant, as well as provide vital skills to corporate learners that can help them polish existing talents and foster new abilities. For example, if you are looking to develop online training for HR personnel, you want to hire someone that is a Subject Matter Expert in HR for your localized online training course. With a local Subject Matter Expert, you can easily establish online training content and learning objectives, while also receiving valuable feedback upon specific terminology to be used in the online training course.
How you work with a local Subject Matter Expert is important when it comes to what they deliver. You want to make sure that your meeting with the Subject Matter Expert is as productive as possible, and that you get the most out of it. As such, you need to come to the meeting fully prepared. Have questions that you want to ask already on hand, and take notes during the meetings. The questions should be based on the online training course you want to localize, while also providing them with a clearer understanding of the objectives in order to avoid potential misunderstandings. At the end of the meeting, repeat some of the notes you took down so that everyone’s on the same page. This also allows the Subject Matter Expert to correct any mistakes and ask questions of their own to clear up any confusion.
2. Vet The Top eLearning Translators In Each Market
Do your homework into which eLearning translators are highly regarded in every region, then evaluate their credentials. Ideally, the eLearning translator should mesh well with your existing eLearning localization team members, as they’ll need to work closely to produce high-quality online training content that is relevant to your target audience. Not to mention, accurate and aligned with your brand image. When in doubt, check references and ask for past samples of their work.
3. Build Online Training Content Based On Context
One of the major characteristics of eLearning localization is making online training content relevant to the context and culture of your corporate learners. Think about it, learning is much easier if you can easily relate the content to your everyday life. For example, a finance team in the US would have different laws and procedures to follow than that in India. Thus, when training the two teams, you will need to adapt the online training content to train them on the procedures that are relevant to them. Otherwise, online training will be pointless and may even diminish your online training ROI.
Subject Matter Experts can prove to be vital in making sure the eLearning localization is done properly and is relevant to the audience. It is important that the Subject Matter Expert works directly with the eLearning translator to ensure that as the online training content is translated, relevant context is included. You can have the Subject Matter Expert look over the translated content to ensure it’s on point.
4. Hire A Local Graphic Designer
Chances are the online training course you have has quite a few graphics that need to be reworked. It is much easier to hire a local graphic designer from the region where the online training course will be implemented. They will know which colors and graphics are relevant to their culture. Local graphic designers are more in tune with the regional audience. This makes it easier for them to develop eye-catching images, templates, and online training activities that resonate with employees.
5. Invest In An Effective eLearning Project Management Platform
Pick the right eLearning Project Management platform to streamline the work process and ensure an open line of communication. eLearning Project Management tools also allow your eLearning localization teams to collaborate. For example, share resources and ask for feedback to enhance the effectiveness of their localized version of the online training course. Get recommendations from your eLearning localization teams regarding which PM tools they’ve used in the past and are most comfortable with.
6. Set The Standards
Every member of your eLearning localization team should know what your brand represents and the image you need to convey. You should also create a set of design standards so that each localized version follows the same strategy. For example, provide a template that every eLearning localization team must use, as well as an online asset library they can draw on when creating online training content. Employees should be able to receive the same benefits from the online training experience, no matter where they are located.
The process of eLearning localization can be time-consuming and stressful. However, these 6 tips can help you minimize the headache by hiring a winning eLearning localization team. These local experts can easily handle the process and improve resource allocation. This allows you to improve your online training ROI and retain your top talent regardless of where they are based.
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