L10n:WorldReady/Screenshot Guideline

Introduction

There are two way of creating the screens. One is by taking a screenshot using a functioning and localized product. Another is by translating all the strings in an en-US mockup in a spread sheet. The former requires guidelines on the specification for the screenshot, the latter relies an creative agency to implement localized content. With each solutions, there are pros and cons.

Taking Screenshot

• Pros:

  *  Actual reflection of a functioning and working application
  *  No issues of possible inconsistency with terminologies
  *  No issues of multiple localizers using different terms for the same English word/phrase
  *  Reviewed and approved product UIs.
  *  

• Cons:

  *  A QAed working product may not be ready until late in the development cycle.   
  *  Screenshot resolution may not be high enough for printing large poster for PR and Marketing purpose.