Should I charge more per word for software localization? Thread poster: Marinus Vesseur
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This may have been discussed before, but I couldn't find it.
I have recently translated software with the aid of a special localization program. To my feeling, if I apply my regular rate per word, there just isn't enough 'turnover' at the end of the day. Is there a more experienced colleague who can tell me whether there is a higher rate to be applied for software localization? Would much appreciate.
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You should definitely charge much more for the localization of software strings than for "regular text", since, as you discovered, translating source code strings takes longer than translating, for example, documentation.
For the same reason, Power point presentations should also be charged at a higer rate.
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Marinus Vesseur 
Canada
Local time: 14:31
English to Dutch
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TOPIC STARTER | Any indication how much more? | Aug 8, 2006 |
Riccardo Schiaffino wrote:
You should definitely charge much more for the localization of software strings than for "regular text"..
Any indication how much more, percentage-wise? Subjectively I would say 50% more, but that might be unrealistic.
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| One of my customers offers me this | Aug 8, 2006 |
Marinus Vesseur wrote:
... I would say 50% more...
and with another, it is about 15% more.
Besides always having to refer to screenshots or surrounding context, I think it also very much depends on the tool you're using.
If you can extract the SW strings from the SW editor to a more user-friendly text editor (such as Word) and reinsert it when you're done, it will save you time (with spelling, browsing, searching, etc).
If the mere task of editing is a nightmare, then you have to take into account the extra time you need compared to translating straight text.
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| Depends on... | Aug 8, 2006 |
The tool you use to translate the software.
Usually, the programs used to translate software (like Catalyst, for example) require more time to translate, as already commented by Riccardo.
You have to be able to "see" how well your translation will adapt to the menus, dialog boxes, etc.
So at least 30% more than your usual rate (that's what I get).
Saludos,
Ivette
PS: Ooops, I just realized Philippe had already mentione... See more The tool you use to translate the software.
Usually, the programs used to translate software (like Catalyst, for example) require more time to translate, as already commented by Riccardo.
You have to be able to "see" how well your translation will adapt to the menus, dialog boxes, etc.
So at least 30% more than your usual rate (that's what I get).
Saludos,
Ivette
PS: Ooops, I just realized Philippe had already mentioned the tool's part. Sorry for the repetition...
[Edited at 2006-08-08 11:29] ▲ Collapse
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| Compared to what? | Aug 9, 2006 |
[quote]Philippe Etienne wrote:
Marinus Vesseur wrote:
... I would say 50% more...
and with another, it is about 15% more.
Hi,
Are we talking about localisation at the premises of the Client, or You take it with You?
I usually charge on hourly base with a daily gaurantee of 12.000 characters /day(for 8 hour work) This can be easily achieved, and gives an opportunity to Your client to plan the schedule of localization. Of course, if you manage to complete the daily "load of work" earlier, you can continue-
At the other hand, if You have problems (losing time) You can still "catch up" the next day or working "overtime", which will not be paid more then your 12000 char/8hour daily fee. It seems complicated, but I think that this is the best solution for You and Your Client.
Best Regards,
Ivan Stevanovic
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| I am replying to the question asked | Aug 9, 2006 |
Marinus Vesseur wrote:
indication how much more, percentage-wise? [/quote]
Hi Ivan,
Percentages here are compared to standard text. The software strings are received by email and handled at the usual place of work on a specific tool.
Priatno,
Philippe
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Samuel Murray
Netherlands
Local time: 23:31
Member (2006)
English to Afrikaans
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| Charge per time and degree of difficulty | Aug 9, 2006 |
Marinus Vesseur wrote:
Is there a more experienced colleague who can tell me whether there is a higher rate to be applied for software localization?
Using a per word rate is merely an easy way to estimate the rate based on the degree of difficulty and the time it'll take to do. Localisation is more difficult and it is likely to take longer to do... therefore you'd be wise to raise your per-word rate.
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Marinus Vesseur
Canada
Local time: 14:31
English to Dutch
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TOPIC STARTER | Price hike unavoidable | Aug 9, 2006 |
Thanks to all for their helpful comments. I'll carefully inform my clients that a 20% price increase for localization (..sation) is unavoidable and go from there.
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Marinus Vesseur
Canada
Local time: 14:31
English to Dutch
+ ...
TOPIC STARTER | 20% premium accepted | Sep 14, 2006 |
Just to let you know: I have applied a 20% bonus with two regular customers and they have both accepted it. Now the price feels right.
Thanks for the encouraging and helpful comments.
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