Localization refers to the adaptation of an original product/program to properly meet the target market. Localization does not generally include the revision of source code of a program or reengineering a product (refer to the definition of internationalization below). Localization includes but is not limited to topics such as translation, collateralization, resizing and desktop publishing, graphics, compiling, testing, and etc.
Globalization
Globalization refers to the entire process of entering the international market. There are generally four main areas to consider during this process: internationalization of source code, localization, international marketing/sales, and international distribution.
Internationalization
Internationalization refers to anything that involves writing or altering the source code of an original product so that you can properly market it in another country. Generally, internationalization of source code must occur prior to localization. Examples of internationalization topics include: - double-byte enabling - conversion to UNICODE - elimination of hard-coded text - international user interface design - adjustment of default settings - resizing issues Internationalization is sometimes referred to as "product enabling."
Localization engineering
The process of using specific localization applications, compilers, and tools to prepare software for release in other markets or localities.
Translation memory (TM)
A database in which translated text and corresponding source text are stored for future use. New source text is automatically paired with these prior translations through the use of database technology. The matching process identifies new text, fuzzy matches and 100% matches and repetitions. Linguists use computer aided tools to manage this process.
Fuzzy match
A term used to describe matching within a translation memory. It is a segment that is similar (but not identical) to the sentence or phrase the translator is currently translating.
Difference between "translation" and "localization"
Translation is a subset of localization. Translation involves converting source text from one language into another. However, when the text is translated, many other changes must be made to the product. These changes encompass both technical and cultural issues.
Technical issues involved in software localization:
Cultural issues involved in avoiding being inappropriate or offensive
- packaging - icons - features - samples - sensitive terms regarding political affairs, local regulations, and religion
Difference between simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese
There are three main differences:
The appearance of the Chinese characters is different. The characters of traditional Chinese look more complex than the characters of simplified Chinese, because traditional Chinese characters have more strokes compared with their corresponding simplified Chinese characters. The character sets are different. Simplified Chinese uses GB code, and traditional Chineseuses BIG5. If you are using a Win 2000/NT or later operating system, both types of Chinese characters are in Unicode. The terminology is different between simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese. Most Chinese can understand both forms of the language. Almost all the word orders and sentence structuresare the same, but the language style is different.
The appearance of the Chinese characters is different. The characters of traditional Chinese look more complex than the characters of simplified Chinese, because traditional Chinese characters have more strokes compared with their corresponding simplified Chinese characters. 
