Are you thinking about localizing your website, movie, book, marketing materials, or anything content-related? Well, while you are thinking about the pros and cons of availing professional localization services. It is best to look at examples that have successfully used localization to create a name for themselves in various markets.
We will discuss some of the obvious and famous cases. So that you can also easily do further research. Moreover, some of the examples will be discussed in detail, and I will name a few more at the end.
Here are some notable and important case studies of localization every business owner looking to nationalize should study:
Netflix
Is there anyone who has taken over the entertainment sector like Netflix has in recent times? Like PlayStation was the arcade killer, Netflix is the cable TV killer. Moreover, the professional localization services used by Netflix are prime examples of how you can make a streaming service global. On Netflix, you can find shows in over 90 different languages. Moreover, most Netflix original shows are available in at least 3-5 dubbed languages, and in subtitles, the strategy usually employs 9-12 languages. Thanks to Netflix the South Korean, Turkish, French, and many other nationality-based production houses are able to rake in millions of dollars. Take the example of ‘Stranger Things’ a show immensely popular in India because of dubbed Hindi. Even the interphase is localized.
Airbnb
The home and property rental business saw a huge innovation when Airbnb went global after availing of services from a website localization agency. No matter where you are in the world, you can choose various languages and symbol metrics to make bookings. The most notable form of localization comes from their expansion in Asia, particularly China. Everyone is familiar with the cultural barriers and regulations of entering the Chinese market. Airbnb went above and beyond by translating the website into Mandarin and integrating local payment methods such as WeChat pay. Another aspect is marketing, which is done by them by partnering with local brands and influencers.
There are many products by Google that we all use on a regular basis. Be it Google Translate, Google Maps, or the Play Store. Everything that Google does feels like home because of exceptional professional localization services. One appreciable effort is their work on Google Maps in India. The massive population, diversity of languages, diversity of culture, etc., is on an extreme level in India. Moreover, there is a lot of local competition, but Google’s localization strategy has triumphed over all of them. Google Maps is an unavoidable tool for locals and tourists that is and will continue to help them find monuments and points of interest.
Ikea
Honestly, given Ikea’s business model, they need localization to market to foreign companies. Ikea furniture has to be assembled by the users through instructions provided by the company. Think of Legos for adults, but more serious. Again, India and China are brilliant examples of the power of localization because both markets are diverse and with huge populations. Ikea localizes their designs, website, content, instructions, and so much with the help of a website localization agency. The furniture producers are among the top companies in both countries. Sometimes things go beyond just localization and you have to cater to other factors also. Given the logistic issues in India and China, Ikea has local customer care services, and provides home delivery. Moreover, it also employs people who can come to your house to assemble it. This latter service is not available in most countries.
Uber
The transportation taxi company keeps expanding its operations in various countries and regions. The localization strategy employed by Uber is very similar for most regions because it is highly effective. Uber’s efforts in Middle Eastern countries is commendable, to say the least. Such as women drivers for women customers, to make them feel safer. Uber partners with local companies and uses their facilities to save costs. Partner companies get to keep a cut of the profits. Language and UI is adapted for each region specifically. Such success helped Uber expand its business model into food delivery, parcel delivery, and more.
Other Companies to Check Out
- Apple
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Adobe
- Spotify
- Coca-Cola
- Procter & Gamble
Final Thoughts
There are many such companies and many will also be relevant to your type of business. It is important to study the right cases that will help you make a more informed decision. Moreover, most of these studies are very interesting if you go into their history. Take the story of KFC or McDonalds for instance. Most of us have seen the Mark Zuckerberg story, on Netflix to say the least. We live in exciting times where businesses can leverage localization to expand into various regions.
