The anatomy of a localization project in an African language—translating Windows XP into Zulu

Abstract

This paper focuses on the nature of the localization of computer software into one of the previously marginalized South African languages and the problems and challenges inherent in this localization. The localization of Microsoft Windows XP into Zulu is presented as a case study. As the phase of the project dealing with the translation of the Windows XP user interface (UI) has already been completed, it is also possible to suggest a number of solutions to the issues raised or to advance mitigating strategies that could help towards the successful completion of future projects of this nature. The discussion centres on: