In the realm of online learning resources and digital advertising, a key content trend that simply cannot be overlooked is the significance of multilingual audiovisual content. Also known as multimedia localization processes, in your business interactions – be they with employees or clients. Understanding multimedia localization processes can help businesses achieve better engagement and communication.
We’ve successfully managed numerous intricate multimedia localization projects. Aimed at informing staff, convincing potential customers, and crafting an engaging and memorable experience. The elements of media we need to tailore for different regions. Include subtitles, voiceovers, background music, and the actual video content.
Explore our tips on multimedia localization as we address common questions. Providing all the necessary information for localizing video or audio materials.
Which Audio Localization Approach Works Best for Your Diverse Language Videos?
There are various paths to follow when it comes to localizing audio in videos. And the approach you select will hinge on your specific needs. Typically, videos made for internal use might not need the utmost quality that content aimed at customers would demand.
Thoughtfully considering your target audience could help you save both time and money. For example, if your video features someone talking into a camera, have you considered the localization of their voice?
Here are some of the different paths you can choose from for audio localization:
Audio Localization Approach Inspired by UN Standards
An alternative approach inspired by UN standards. Where the volume of the speaker in your video will be reduced, and the voiceover in the desired language gets overlaid at a higher volume.
Delete Original Soundtrack and Align with the Local Speaker’s Voice
Another approach involves deleting the original soundtrack and aligning the localized speech with the movements of the speaker’s lips and mouth. This method requires greater accuracy, time, and financial investment.
Recover Using Local Speakers of Your Video’s Desired Languages
Recording your training materials or corporate videos with a native speaker of the target language and country could be another solution. The cost of this option may vary based on the complexity of the video. Should you find yourself uncertain about which method to choose, we are here to assist you.
Subtitles in Multiple Languages
Another approach to think about is adding subtitles at the bottom of the video. Using basic subtitles instead of audio dubbing is a good option when we need only a simple localization. It’s important to remember that people watch 85% of Facebook videos without sound, making them a prime example of where subtitles could be beneficial. Spending money on re-recording would likely not pay off, as the majority of your viewers wouldn’t notice the difference.
So, which subtitles option(s) would work best for your videos in your Multimedia Localization Processes?
Should You Use Automated Speech, Like Siri?
For certain audio localization tasks, you might want to look into automated speech. Which has improved significantly over the years. Moving away from the old, unnatural-sounding automated voice – especially with the latest AI technology. Similar to how Siri on an iPhone can recognize the rise and fall of sentences and pauses. Making the speech sound almost natural.
However, it’s important to note that there’s a setup fee for this, and choosing the mechanical voice option might be a good idea if you have a large number of script lines, like tens of thousands.
Are Your Video Materials Ready for Localization?
Before you pass your videos over to your localization partner, here are a few tips to get you started. Getting everything ready in advance will help ensure your videos are delivered on time. And provide an engaging multimedia experience for your viewers.
- Get Your Multimedia Files in Order for Localization
Having all your video file sets ready to go makes the localization process much smoother. So, besides the video formats you’ve chosen (like MP4/AVI). Your content services partner will also need the original file formats. From which the video was created for the Multimedia Localization Processes. - Clearly Communicate Your Video Localization Needs
It’s also beneficial to clearly outline your video localization needs from the beginning. For instance, if you’re creating a training video, do you need the subtitles to appear at the bottom of the screen. Or should they be part of an online video player that allows you to toggle them on or off? Will your e-learning module feature a live presenter, or will it rely on a series of screenshots?
Being clear about your preferences from the start aids in planning to meet the deadlines of your projects. If you want the same actor for all your videos to maintain consistency, we need to know this to ensure they’re available.
Understand Your Platforms and File Formats
Be aware of which platforms and environments the localized video will be used in, how captions are integrated, and the preferred file format. By doing this, you’re helping to streamline the video localization process by allowing localization teams to focus on the specific requirements.
- Finalize and Verify Your Multilingual Video Scripts
The script for the localized audio recording should be identical to the source video. Make sure to complete all necessary internal checks. To verify there are no discrepancies between the audio and the script before recording.
While these tips aren’t comprehensive, they should give you a good idea of what do you need to expand the reach of your multimedia content.