Multilingual Website Design Guide for 2025! Learning from Successful Cases! Cost, How to choose, Points to note
Creating a multilingual website is an essential strategy for global business development. However, many companies are troubled by the complexity of costs, production methods, SEO strategies, and other issues. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of multilingual website production, from its merits and demerits, types, cost rates, how to proceed, best practices, SEO strategies, points to consider when choosing a company, and cautions, based on the latest information available in 2025. By reading this article, you will understand the overall picture of multilingual website production and learn specific methods that will lead you to success. Take the first step toward creating an effective multilingual website to expand into overseas markets, capture inbound demand, and enhance your brand image. By implementing the points discussed in this article, you can expect to increase sales through increased access to your website and establish a competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
1. advantages of multilingual website production
In today's world of accelerating globalization, a multilingual website has become an essential element for corporate growth. More than just a tool for disseminating information, it is a powerful weapon for expanding business opportunities and enhancing brand value. Let's take a closer look at the benefits of multilingual website production.
1.1 Why multilingualization?
The Internet has made it easier for people around the world to access information. If you focus only on the domestic market, you may miss out on significant business opportunities. Multilingualization is,Expand reach to potential customersThis is an important strategy for developing new markets.
It can also be expected to enhance the credibility and professionalism of a company. By having a multilingual website,A company with a global perspectiveThis will give the impression that the company is a good fit for the customer and will lead to gaining the customer's trust.
1.2 Capturing inbound demand
With the increase in the number of foreign visitors to Japan, tapping into inbound demand has become an important issue for many companies. Multilingual websites are,A valuable source of information for foreign travelersand has the effect of encouraging the purchase of goods and services.
For example, a restaurant can encourage foreign tourists to visit by making its menu available in multiple languages. For sightseeing facilities, by providing information on facilities and access methods in multiple languages, you can provide a comfortable travel experience for more foreign tourists.
Due in part to the weak yen, inbound consumption is contributing greatly to the revitalization of the Japanese economy. Multilingual homepages are,An effective means of capturing this inbound demandIt can be said that
1.3 Expansion into overseas markets
A multilingual website is a powerful tool for smooth entry into foreign markets.Information in local languagesThis will make it easier to reach your target customers and increase the probability of business success.
When expanding overseas, it is important to understand the differences in culture and business practices. A multilingual website is,Disseminating information tailored to local cultureand serve as a foundation for building smooth communication with target customers.
1.4 Enhancement of brand image
A multilingual website can also help improve a company's brand image. For companies operating in the global marketplace, a multilingual website isInternational CompaniesThis has the effect of fostering an image of the company as a "good" company and increasing its brand value.
In addition, a high-quality multilingual website is,Corporate CredibilityIt also helps to increase Providing accurate and easy-to-understand information in multiple languages will help you gain the trust of your customers and contribute to the long-term success of your business.
| Advantages | Description. |
|---|---|
| Expansion of potential customers | It will be possible to reach people all over the world and open up new markets. |
| Capture inbound demand | Providing more information to foreign tourists will lead to an increase in sales. |
| Promote expansion into overseas markets | Provide information in local languages to facilitate overseas expansion. |
| Enhancement of brand image | Establish an image as a global company and enhance brand value. |
| Improved corporate credibility | Providing accurate multilingual information will earn the trust of customers. |
Through these advantages, a multilingual website can strongly support the growth of a company.Today's globalized societyMultilingual websites are now an indispensable tool in the
2. types of multilingual website production and how to choose
There are three main types of multilingual website production. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the method best suited to your company's needs and budget.
2.1 Multilingualization of translations only
This method involves hiring a translation company to translate the text content of an existing website into multiple languages. This is the easiest and least expensive method, but requires in-house management of translation accuracy, communication of cultural nuances, and SEO measures.
2.1.1 Advantages
- Low cost to get started
- Existing websites can be used without modification.
- Can be made multilingual in a short period of time
2.1.2 Disadvantages
- Difficult to maintain translation quality
- Cultural nuances may be difficult to convey
- SEO tends to be inadequate
- Site design may not be optimized for each language
- Renewal process can be complicated
2.2 Introduction of a multilingual CMS
This is a method of introducing a CMS (Content Management System) with multilingual support functions, such as WordPress. You can manage the translation work and multilingual contents efficiently. By using plug-ins, it can also be used for SEO.
2.2.1 Advantages
- Easy management of multilingual content
- Strong SEO
- High degree of freedom of design
- Extendable functionality with plug-ins
2.2.2 Disadvantages
- Initial and running costs are high.
- Need to become proficient in CMS operations
- Appropriate plug-ins must be selected
Multilingualization in WordPress is,WordPress official Japanese siteIt is explained in detail in the following section.
2.3 Use of multilingual website construction services
This is the method of using multilingual website construction services such as WOVN.io and Gengo. They provide one-stop services from translation to system development and operation, making it easy to create a multilingual website even without specialized knowledge. Some services also provide advanced SEO and website analysis tools.
2.3.1 Advantages
- Multilingualization is possible without specialized knowledge
- One-stop service delivery
- Advanced SEO and website analysis tools may be available
- Lower operating costs
2.3.2 Disadvantages
- There is a service charge.
- Customizability may be limited
- Selection of service provider is important
For a comparison of multilingual website building services,ITreviewYou can check with sites like
2.4 Advantages and disadvantages of each
| type | Advantages | demerit |
|---|---|---|
| Translation Only Multilingual | Low cost, easy to use | Lack of SEO and maintenance of translation quality |
| Introduction of multilingual CMS | Ease of multilingual content management, strong SEO | Initial and running costs, proficiency in CMS operation |
| Use of multilingual website building services | No expertise required, one-stop service | Service fees, limited customizability |
Use the above as a guide to select the best method for your company's situation.It is important to carefully consider the budget, human resources, and required functions.
3. cost rates for multilingual website production
The cost of creating a multilingual website varies depending on many factors. The number of languages to be translated, the number of website pages, the amount of content, and the required functionality are all important considerations. In this section, we will explain the costs of creating a multilingual website by dividing them into translation costs, system development costs, and operation costs, and we will also introduce some tips on how to keep costs down.
3.1 Translation Costs
Translation costs vary widely depending on the language, number of words, and specialization of the target language. In general, major languages such as English tend to be relatively inexpensive, while minor languages are more expensive. In addition, translations in highly specialized fields are more expensive because they require translators with specialized knowledge.
3.1.1 Translation cost quotes
| Language | Cost per character (yen) | Cost per page (yen) (approx. 2000 characters) |
|---|---|---|
| English (language) | 7-15 | 14,000～30,000 |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 8-18 | 16,000～36,000 |
| Korean (language) | 9-20 | 18,000～40,000 |
| French (language) | 10-22 | 20,000 to 44,000 |
| German (language) | 12-25 | 24,000-50,000 |
The above is only a guide, and prices will vary depending on the translation company and translator. For accurate costs, it is important to request quotes from multiple translation companies and compare them.
The use of machine translation can reduce the cost of translation, but care must be taken to ensure quality.If multilingualization is done only by machine translation, be sure to perform native checking to ensure accuracy.
Reference:Translation Price Guide ｜ Japan Federation of Translators Associations
3.2 System development costs
System development costs vary widely depending on the method used to create a multilingual website. While it is often relatively inexpensive to convert an existing website into multiple languages, it can be expensive to build a new multilingual website. In addition, if a multilingual CMS is to be implemented, licensing and customization costs must also be taken into consideration.
3.2.1 System Development Costs
| method | Cost price (yen) |
|---|---|
| Translation Only Multilingual | Tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yen |
| Introduction of multilingual CMS | Hundreds of thousands to millions of yen |
| Use of multilingual website building services | Tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yen/year |
If you want to implement a multilingual CMS, you can reduce the initial cost by using an open source CMS such as WordPress.
3.3 Operating costs
There are ongoing costs associated with operating a multilingual website, such as translation updates, server costs, domain costs, and security costs. In addition, in order to analyze and improve the access status of the website, access analysis tools and other costs are also required.
3.3.1 Operational costs
| (data) item | Cost price (yen/month) |
|---|---|
| Server cost | 1,000 to several tens of thousands of yen |
| Domain fees | 100 to several thousand yen |
| Translation renewal fee | Thousands of yen to tens of thousands of yen |
| Security Expenses | Thousands of yen to tens of thousands of yen |
Operating costs vary widely depending on the size of the website and the number of accesses.
Reference:Price Plans｜Lollipop! Rental Server
3.4 Points to keep costs down
To reduce the cost of multilingual website production, keep the following points in mind
- Narrow down the languages you need:By focusing on a target market and making it multilingual, rather than all languages, translation and operating costs can be reduced.
- Combine machine translation with human translation:Cost-effectiveness can be enhanced by utilizing machine translation for areas where costs are to be kept low and using human translation for important parts of the document.
- Utilize an open source CMS:By utilizing an open source CMS such as WordPress, system development costs can be reduced.
- Utilize cloud services:Translation management tools and cloud translation services can help streamline translation and operating costs.
Based on these points, it is important to choose the best method for your budget.
4. how to proceed with multilingual website production
The key to success in multilingual website production is careful planning and step-by-step execution. Here we explain the basic steps in the creation of a multilingual website, divided into four steps.
4.1 Requirements Definition
The first step is to define requirements to clarify the purpose, target, and necessary functions of the multilingual website production. By defining the requirements thoroughly at this stage, we can prevent rework that may occur later in the process and ensure a smooth progression of the project.
4.1.1 Clarification of objectives
Why create a multilingual website? Clarify its purpose. The structure and content of the site will vary depending on the objective, such as expanding into overseas markets, capturing inbound demand, or building a global brand image. Setting clear objectives is essential to the success of the project.
4.1.2 Target Clarification
Who are you creating a website for? Clearly define the attributes (nationality, language, culture, interests, etc.) of the target audience. Adopting appropriate language, expressions, and design for the target audience will ensure effective communication.
4.1.3 Clarification of required functions
Identify the features required for a multilingual website. For example,Multilingual inquiry form, currency conversion function, and payment system for overseas customers Consider features that meet the needs of your target audience, such as Too many functions will increase development and operating costs, so it is important to determine which functions are truly necessary.
4.1.4 Budgeting
Identify the budget you can spend on the production of a multilingual website. Translation costs, system development costs, operation costs, and other costs will be incurred. The project should be carried out to the extent feasible according to the budget. Proper budget allocation will ensure a cost-effective multilingual website.
4.2 Site Design
Based on the requirements definition, design the overall site structure, page structure, navigation, and design. Aim for a site structure that is easy for users to use and understand. It is also important to take into account design considerations specific to multilingualization.
4.2.1 Information Design
Organize the information to be provided and design how it will be presented in each language. Care should be taken to ensure that there is no difference in the amount of information in each language version, and an easy-to-understand information architecture should be created so that users can easily access the information they need. Creating a site map is also effective.
4.2.2 Page Design
Place the components of each page (text, images, videos, etc.) and determine the layout. It is important to maintain a consistent design in each language version while taking cultural differences into consideration. Creating wireframes allows you to visually confirm the layout.
4.2.3 Navigation Design
We design easy-to-understand navigation so that users can move smoothly through the site. Consider unifying navigation terminology in each language version and implementing a multilingual search function. It is also important to conduct usability tests to verify the usability of the navigation.
4.2.4 Selection of a Multilingual CMS
WordPress, etc.A multilingual CMS can streamline website management and updating. Compare the features of each CMS and choose the best CMS for your project.WordPress Official Site
4.3 Development and Implementation
Based on the design, the website is actually built. This phase includes translation work, system development, content creation, and many other tasks. Thorough quality control is required to achieve a high-quality multilingual website.
4.3.1 Translation work
Translate website content into various languages. Professional translations, not machine translations, are recommended. Translation quality is an important factor in the reliability of a website. Please check in advance for tips on obtaining quotes when hiring a translation company, as well as points to keep in mind when placing orders.
4.3.2 System Development
We develop systems to build multilingual websites. Technical expertise is required for CMS customization, implementation of multilingual plug-ins, and database design. When hiring a development company, be sure to check their track record and technical capabilities.
4.3.3 Content Creation
Create content to be posted on each language version of the website. Prepare attractive content for your target audience, including not only text, but also images, video, and audio. Improving the quality of content will lead to higher user engagement. It is also important to use appropriate expressions that take cultural context into account.
4.4 Testing and Release
Once development is complete, testing is conducted to ensure that there are no bugs or glitches. The website is then officially launched. Even after the website is released, analyze the access status and collect user feedback for continuous improvement.
4.4.1 Checking the multilingual display
We check that the website is displayed correctly in each language and that there are no errors in the translations. Checking by native speakers of each language is recommended. Also check for display corruption, garbled text, broken links, etc.
4.4.2 Functional Testing
Check that website functions such as contact forms, search functions, payment systems, etc. are working properly. It is also important to make sure that the site works on different browsers and devices. Cross-browser testing and responsive support should be conducted to ensure that the website can be used comfortably in all environments.
4.4.3 Disclosure
Once testing is complete, the website will be officially opened to the public. Complete the necessary procedures to publish your website, such as domain setup, server setup, etc. It is important to continue to operate and maintain the website after publication.
4.4.4 Post-publication improvements
After the website is launched, we analyze the access status and identify areas for improvement. By utilizing access analysis tools such as Google Analytics and analyzing user behavior, you can improve your website. Feedback from users can also be actively collected and used for improvement.
5. common mistakes in multilingual website production
While the creation of a multilingual website is an important strategy for companies seeking to expand globally, there are also various examples of failure. To succeed, it is essential to understand these failures and take appropriate countermeasures. Here, we will discuss common examples of failure and their countermeasures in detail.
5.1 Low translation quality
The most common mistake in multilingual website production is poor translation quality. Using only machine translation or hiring translators with no expertise can result in inaccurate wording and mistranslations that can damage a company's credibility.Accurate and natural translations require review by native speakers of the target languageIt is.
5.1.1 Relying solely on machine translation
Relying solely on machine translation to reduce costs may result in incorrect nuance and context, or unnatural expressions.Machine translation should only be used as a supplementary tool, and the final translation needs to be checked and corrected by a human translator.For example, when translating from Japanese to English using Google Translate, "My stomach is full. For example, when translating "I'm full" from Japanese to English using Google Translate, the literal translation is "My stomach is full. However, a more natural English expression would be "I'm full. Machine translation alone cannot capture such subtle differences in nuance.
5.1.2 Mistranslation of technical terms
Mistranslations of technical terms can cause major problems, especially on websites with technical content.Accurate translations are achieved by hiring translators who are experts in their fields of specialization.It can be done.
5.1.3 Direct translation ignoring cultural context
A direct translation that ignores cultural context may cause misunderstanding or discomfort. For example, in Japan, the expression "I will do my best" is used in a positive sense, but in some cultures it may give an impression of arrogance.Expression tailored to the target culture(s)It is important to use
For good measure,Japan Federation of Translators AssociationsThis includes hiring a reputable translation company such as
5.2 Lack of cultural sensitivity
Simply translating languages is not true multilingualization.Creating a website without taking cultural differences into account can cause misunderstanding and discomfort among your target customer base, resulting in lost business opportunities!For example, the appropriate use of color, images, design, and expression varies from culture to culture. In Muslim countries, images of pork are considered taboo, so care should be taken on food-related websites. Also, certain color combinations may be considered inauspicious in some countries.
5.2.1 Different meanings of colors
Colors have different meanings in different cultures. For example, in Japan, white symbolizes purity and cleanliness, while in China it is considered the color of mourning.Need to understand the meaning of color in the target country's culture and be mindful of appropriate color useThere are For example,PANTONEwebsite explains in detail the meanings and psychological effects of colors.
5.2.2 Selection of images and design
The images and designs used will also vary in appropriateness from culture to culture.Select images and designs that take into account the culture of the target countryIt is important to do so. For example, religious symbols or certain gestures may be considered inappropriate in some cultures.
5.2.3 Differences in Expression
Humor, irony, and figurative expressions may be interpreted differently in different cultures.Be clear and concise to avoid misunderstandingsIt is important to In addition, it is important to note that the use of honorifics and politeness of expression differs from culture to culture.
| (data) item | Japan | America |
|---|---|---|
| Examples of colors | White: pure, clean | White: wedding, beginning |
| Examples of gestures | Bowing: Respect | Handshake: Greeting |
5.3 Lack of SEO
Even if a multilingual website is created, if SEO measures are insufficient, the website will not appear high in search engines and users will not find it.Need to select appropriate keywords in each language, set hreflang tags, etc. to ensure multilingual SEOThere are two types of keywords that can be used to rank high. For example, if the Japanese version of your site aims to rank high for the keyword "Multilingual Website Development," you should aim to rank high for the keyword "Multilingual Website Development" on the English version of your site. Also, by setting the hreflang tag, you can ensure that search engines correctly recognize each language version of your page.
5.3.1 Mistakes in Keyword Selection
Not a simple literal translation,Research and select keywords actually used in the target languageIt is important toGoogle Keyword PlannerYou can find appropriate keywords by using tools such as
5.3.2 Misconfiguration of hreflang tag
The hreflang tag is important for search engines to correctly recognize each language version of the page.If there is a misconfiguration, pages in the appropriate language may not appear in search results or may not be indexed.for information on how to set the hreflang tag,Official Google Documentationfor more information.
5.3.3 Not yet created multilingual sitemap
Creating a multilingual sitemap helps search engines understand the structure of your site and facilitates crawling and indexing.Group each language version of the page appropriately and submit to search enginesIt is important to
In order to avoid these failures and ensure the success of your multilingual website production, it is important to plan carefully and get professional help. A multilingual website that takes cultural background and SEO into consideration will greatly contribute to expanding your business in the global marketplace.
6. successful examples of multilingual website production
Successful multilingual website production requires careful planning and appropriate strategies. Here, we explore the key points of multilingual website production with reference to successful case studies of leading Japanese companies.
6.1 Case Study 1 Toyota Motor Corporation
6.1.1 Multilingual websites to support global expansion
Toyota Motor Corporation's global website provides information in multiple languages for customers around the world.Localization that matches the culture and business practices of each country, rather than mere translationWe have succeeded in improving the user experience by thoroughly For example, the North American site offers region-specific content, such as a large feature on locally popular car models. In addition, the North American site features a large number of locally popular car models,Adopt responsive designThis allows for comfortable access not only from PCs, but also from smartphones and tablets.
Reference:Toyota Motor Corporation Global Site
6.1.2 Multilingual SEO Initiatives
Toyota Motor Corporation is also committed to multilingual SEO.Appropriate keywords in each country's languageThe site is designed to increase the number of visitors to the site from search engines, thereby helping to increase awareness in the global market. In addition, by setting the hreflang tag appropriately, we ensure that the most appropriate language page is displayed to users in each country.
6.2 Case Study 2: Uniqlo
6.2.1 Comfortable shopping experience for customers worldwide
UNIQLO's global site aims to provide a pleasant shopping experience for customers around the world.Support for multiple languages, as well as different currencies and sizes in different countriesIn addition, the company has been successful in improving its brand image by implementing promotions tailored to the culture of each country. In addition, by implementing promotions tailored to the culture of each country, we have succeeded in enhancing our brand image. For example, in Muslim countries, we use models wearing hijab,Religious considerationsWe also do not miss the
Reference:Uniqlo
6.2.2 Global marketing through SNS
UNIQLO is also focusing on global marketing through SNS.Official accounts in various languagesand actively communicating with local users to nurture their attachment to the brand. In addition, by utilizing influencer marketing, we are reaching out to a wider range of users.
6.3 Case Study 3 Rakuten
6.3.1 Diverse services in multiple languages
Rakuten offers not only an e-commerce site, but also a travel booking site, financial services, and other diverse services in multiple languages.Multilingualization strategies tailored to the characteristics of each serviceto increase our competitiveness in the global market. For example, our travel booking website supports users' travel plans by providing tourist information and travel plans in various countries.
Reference:Rakuten Group, Inc.
6.3.2 Site Improvement Based on Data Analysis
Rakuten is also committed to improving its website based on data analysis.Analyze access conditions and user behaviorBy doing so, we are able to identify issues with the multilingual website and take steps to improve it. This improves the user experience and increases conversion rates.
6.4 Key Success Factors
Based on the success stories of these companies, the key points of success for multilingual website production can be summarized as follows.
| point | Details |
|---|---|
| Consideration for target culture and customs | Ensure localization, not just translation |
| Multilingual SEO | Setting appropriate keywords and hreflang tags |
| Mobile-friendly design | Adoption of responsive design |
| Support for diverse services | Multilingualization strategies tailored to the characteristics of each service |
| Improvement based on data analysis | Analysis of access conditions and user behavior |
| Continuous Improvement | Responding to market changes and user needs |
By taking these points into consideration and creating a multilingual website that best suits your business, you will be closer to success in the global marketplace.
7. SEO measures for multilingual website production
SEO is very important when creating a multilingual website. With proper SEO, you can effectively promote your website to users in your target countries and regions and increase traffic. In this chapter, we will explain in detail the basics of multilingual SEO as well as specific measures.
7.1 Multilingual SEO Basics
The basis of multilingual SEO is to ensure that the appropriate language pages are displayed to users searching in the target language. To achieve this, pages in each language must be properly created and correctly recognized by search engines. Below is a summary of the basic points of multilingual SEO.
| (data) item | Contents |
|---|---|
| Target language identification | You need to clearly define in which language you will deploy your website. Decide based on your market size and business goals. |
| Keyword research | It is important to research what keywords are being searched for in the target language. By selecting appropriate keywords, you can aim for higher rankings in search results. |
| Content Translation | It is important to localize the translation to match the culture and expressions of the target language, rather than just translating. High-quality translation also improves the user experience. |
| Setting hreflang tag | Set hreflang tags to tell search engines which languages are supported by each language page. hreflang tags should be set with care, as errors in setting them can have a negative impact on SEO. |
7.2 Keyword Selection
Keyword selection is a very important factor in multilingual SEO. Simply translating Japanese keywords is not enough; you must consider the culture and search habits of the target language. Below is a summary of keyword selection points.
- Research local search trends: Use tools such as Google Trends to research what keywords are being searched for in your target language.
- Keyword analysis of competitor sitesKeyword: Analyzing what keywords your competitors' sites are ranking highly for will give you hints on how to select effective keywords.
- Use of long-tail keywords: By targeting niche keywords, you can aim for higher rankings in markets with less competition.
- Use of keyword research tools: Keyword research tools such as Semrush and Ahrefs can be used to select keywords more efficiently. For example.Semrushis a multilingual SEO tool that allows keyword research for various countries and regions.
7.2.1 Multilingual Keyword Research Tools
A variety of tools can be utilized for effective keyword research. Typical tools are listed below.
- Semrush: A comprehensive SEO tool, it offers keyword research, competitive analysis, site audits, and much more.
- Ahrefs: A tool dedicated to competitive analysis, allowing link analysis and tracking of keyword rankings.
- Google Trends: A free tool that allows you to check search trends for specific keywords.
7.3 hreflang tag settings
The hreflang tag is an important tag that tells search engines the supported language of each page on a multilingual website. hreflang tags, when set correctly, allow search engines to display the appropriate page based on the user's language preference. hreflang tag misconfiguration can have a negative impact on SEO.
7.3.1 Basic description of the hreflang tag
The hreflang tag is described in the head section using the link tag. The following is an example of how to map a Japanese page to an English page.
By mutually setting hreflang tags on each language page as shown above, you can correctly tell search engines the corresponding language of each page.The x-default tag can also be used to set the hreflang tagThe x-default tag is used to specify the page to be displayed to users who do not match any language.
7.3.2 Notes on hreflang tags
- self-reference: Each page must have an hreflang tag that refers to itself.
- cross-referenceJapanese page: If you set up a link from a Japanese page to an English page, you must also set up a link from the English page to the Japanese page.
- language code: For the hreflang attribute, use the language code defined in ISO 639-1.
- canonical URLThe: href attribute specifies a canonical URL.
For more information on hreflang tags,Official Google Documentationfor more information.
8. how to choose a multilingual website production company and service
Selecting the right production company and service is essential for a successful multilingual website production. We will explain in detail the key points for finding the best partner for your company's needs from among the many options available.
8.1 Track record and experience
The first point to check is the track record and experience of the production company and service.In particular, whether the firm has experience in website production for companies in the same industry and size as your company is an important indicator.If the company has an extensive track record, it will have a deep understanding of the issues and precautions involved in multilingualization, and a smooth project progression can be expected. It is also important to check the number of languages supported and the scale of past projects. For example,W3COur track record of contribution to international web standardization organizations such as
Check the portfolio and case studies of production companies and services to see specific achievements.It is important to evaluate not only the design, but also the functionality of multilingualization and SEO.
8.2 Supported languages
Make sure that the required languages are supported for your target market.It is important to make sure that you have a clear understanding of the language requirements in advance, as you may need to support not only major languages such as English and Chinese, but also niche languages.In addition to simply being able to translate, it is also important to confirm that a native checking and localization system is in place. Localization that understands cultural nuances is important, for example, when expressions differ between American English and British English within an English-speaking country.
8.3 Support System
Even after a multilingual website is created, ongoing support is required for operation, updating, and troubleshooting.Check to see if the production company/service has a good support system and if they are prompt and courteous in responding to inquiries.It is also a good idea to confirm the existence and content of SLAs (Service Level Agreements). Also, check for emergency response and security measures. For example,Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA)It is also important to evaluate the level of security measures by referring to security information provided by
8.4 Price
The cost of multilingual website production varies greatly depending on the size and functionality of the site, the number of languages supported, and other factors.It is important to obtain quotes from multiple production companies and services and compare them.Do not make a decision based on price alone, but rather consider the balance between the services provided and the quality of the services. Check not only the initial cost, but also the running costs and additional expenses. For example,METIThe website of the "MFG" also provides information on grants for small and medium-sized businesses, so consider the possibility of taking advantage of these grants.
8.4.1 Price comparison points
| (data) item | Contents |
|---|---|
| Initial cost | Site construction costs, translation costs, initial setup costs, etc. |
| Monthly Fee | Server fees, domain fees, system usage fees, maintenance fees, etc. |
| additional fees | Content update costs, additional functionality costs, design change costs, etc. |
Based on these points, choose the multilingual website production company and service that best suits your company's needs to successfully expand your business globally.
9. points to keep in mind when creating a multilingual website
In creating a multilingual website, it is not enough to simply translate. There are various legal and technical aspects to be considered. Understanding these precautions in advance will prevent problems later on and ensure smooth website operation.
9.1 Copyrights and trademarks
When creating a multilingual website, consideration of copyright and trademark rights is essential. Copyrights exist not only for the original translated content, but also for the images, videos, and music used. Unauthorized use of these materials constitutes copyright infringement and may result in legal liability.Always obtain permission from the rights holder before use.Make sure to do so.
Also, when expanding overseas,Possibility that your company's trademark is already registeredThere are also It is necessary to conduct a preliminary investigation and, if necessary, take measures such as registering a trademark. Trademark infringement can damage the brand image and lead to legal disputes, so care must be taken.
Reference:Patent Office
9.2 Personal Data Protection
Multilingual websites must comply with privacy laws that differ from country to country. For example, the EU's GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) sets strict rules for the handling of personal information.Understand the laws of each country and take appropriate measures to protect personal informationIt is important to Specifically, this includes making privacy policies multilingual, providing appropriate notice regarding the use of cookies, and securely storing data.
In addition, the handling of personal information,Explain in a way that is easy for users to understandIt is also important to Creating a privacy policy in multiple languages and clearly presenting it on the website will help gain the trust of users.
Reference:Personal Information Protection Committee
9.3 Security Measures
Multilingual Web sites are more likely to be targets of cyber attacks.Enhanced security measuresIt is important to prevent unauthorized access to websites and information leaks by doing the following. Specific examples include installing SSL certificates, firewalls, and conducting vulnerability assessments.
Also,Keep CMS and plug-ins up-to-dateIt is also important to Older versions may contain vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of being the target of an attack. Regular updates can reduce security risks.
9.3.1 Specific security measures
| counter-measure | Contents |
|---|---|
| Deployment of SSL Certificates | Communication is encrypted to prevent data eavesdropping and tampering. |
| Firewall installation | Block unauthorized access from outside. |
| Perform vulnerability assessments | System vulnerabilities are identified and countermeasures are taken. |
| Update CMS and plug-ins | Apply security patches and fix vulnerabilities. |
| Deployment of WAF (Web Application Firewall) | Detects and prevents attacks on web applications. |
Reference:Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan
By taking these precautions into account and implementing appropriate measures, you can create and operate a safe and reliable multilingual website. Multilingualization is an important step toward successful expansion into global markets. Make sure you are well prepared and aim for effective website management.
10. summary
Multilingual website production can make a significant contribution to capturing inbound demand, expanding into overseas markets, and improving brand image. However, in order to succeed, careful planning and selection of appropriate methods are essential. From translation-only multilingualization to the introduction of a multilingual CMS or the use of a multilingual website development service, there are a variety of options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Costs also vary widely, including translation costs, system development costs, and operation costs, so it is necessary to select the most appropriate method according to your budget.
The production process should be phased from requirements definition, site design, development and implementation, to testing and publication. Common failures include poor translation quality, lack of consideration for culture, and insufficient SEO measures. It is important to proceed with the successful examples of Toyota Motor Corporation, Uniqlo, Rakuten, etc., while keeping the key points of success in mind. hreflang tag settings and multilingual keyword selection are essential for SEO measures. When selecting a production company, compare and contrast their track record and experience, supported languages, support system, and price.
Finally, pay attention to legal aspects such as copyright and trademark rights, personal information protection, and security measures to ensure the success of your multilingual website creation and global business development.
