Frequently asked question
What is localization?
Answer
Localization is the process of translating and customizing a product for a specific market. It involves translating graphical user interface, help system, documentation, and in some cases creating locale specific geocoding rules and styles. Not all markets require everything, so it is important to analyze the market demands carefully to decide what level of localization is required in each market when planning a localization project.ArcGIS Desktop and Server applications have been developed with localization in mind, following an approach that separates resources from source code. Resources refer to all the text and graphics that appear in the applications user interfaces, menus, dialog boxes, tool tips, and informational alert, and error messages. By separating all of the resources from the source code, a more efficient localization process is provided. The most common type of a resource file is a resource script file with the .RC file extension. It contains GUI components and strings necessary for localization. Developing new localized versions of ArcGIS Desktop and Server applications mainly involves translating strings in resource files and creating a new set of localized resource files.
Note:
In order to localize ArcGIS products, participants need to be an authorized ESRI international distributor and must sign a localization agreement. For more detail on how to become a distributor or to obtain a copy of localization agreement contact ESRI.
Note:
To obtain localized versions of ArcGIS products, contact the local ESRI distributor.
Article ID:000007146
Software:
- ArcMap 8 x
- ArcMap 9 x
Get help from ArcGIS experts
Download the Esri Support App
Related Information
Discover more on this topic
Search for related information
Find training related to this topic
Explore ideas and give feedback