Difference between Globalization and Localization testing

In this blog post, we are going to discuss the major differences between the two types of Software testing, namely, globalization and localization testing. But before getting into the difference between globalization testing and localization testing, we will briefly introduce what globalization and localization testing is that are conducted on a piece of software product before it gets released in the market.  

Concept of Globalization Testing

• Globalization testing is a different kind of software testing which is performed on developed software for use in numerous languages. The word ‘globalization’ means to make an application or piece of software more linguistically compatible for use globally without any language barrier.

• It makes sure the software program is functioning across all languages and its distinct attributes perform the same way in other languages as well. For instance, Google is regarded as a worldwide or global software application because it allows for multilingual searching.

Concept of Localization Testing

• Localization testing is another kind of software testing which is performed on a specific application depending on the nation, area, etc. As far as we are aware, the localized software product only supports specific kinds of languages that are used exclusively in a particular location.

• It is often referred to as L10N testing, where L and N are the letters in the localization term, and 10 is the number between them. Localization testing is extremely beneficial for apps that are only available in regional languages. For instance, web applications like QQ are only accessible to Chinese users. Hence it is a local software application.

Differences Between Globalization Testing and Localization Testing

Both software testing are generally applicable to all levels of Software Testing with the aim to find errors. However, they are different to each other in many ways.

Let’s understand with the help of this table to know about the major differences between globalization testing and localization testing: –

Globalization Testing	Localization Testing
Application support for multiple languages is tested during globalization testing.	Application support for a specific kind of language is tested during localization testing and, if necessary, its dialects.
The software testers will be able to find any possible bugs or defects in the application that could prevent it from performing as planned with the help of the globalization testing.	The software testers can find only typographical issues with the use of localization testing.
The test engineer works under the assumption that the software product is being tested and used globally when performing the globalization testing.	The test engineer works under the assumption that the software product is being tested and will be used by a specific users in an area when performing the localization testing.
The software application maintains several currency formats, including address and mobile number formats, through globalization testing.	The testing for localization verifies whether or not the specific address format, currency format, and mobile number format are functional.
Globalization Testing costs more than localization testing.	Localization Testing costs lesser than globalization.

Conclusion

Hence, from the above discussion, it is fair say that both Globalization Testing and Localization Testing have their own advantages and disadvantages, but both are equally important in the context of language appropriateness, cultural sensitivity, and the popularity of the software globally and locally.

These elements enable the software to be used by both local and international users, which raises the software’s profile. Software engineers cannot create a high-quality software product that satisfies the needs of the client or end user without using globalization testing and localization testing methods. 

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