Other sites are developed by graphics designers, these sites may look good but major opportunities to automate business processes might be missed and website could have technical flaws. As a result such sites rank poorly with search engines.

Websites are also implemented, without any content or technical maintenance plan. Have you noticed when you are surfing that there are sites that state when they were last updated and it was several years ago. That just isn’t competitive on web today. There is often no one specifically responsible for maintaining and monitoring website or specific business results that were expected when investment was made

“A company that neglects its website may be committing commercial suicide. A website is increasingly becoming gateway to a company's brand, products and services—even if firm does not sell online. A useless website suggests a useless company, and a rival is only a mouse-click away. But even coolest website will be lost in cyberspace if people cannot find it, so companies have to ensure that they appear high up in internet search results”

May 13th 2004 Economist

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, WSI’s latest office will be run by Internet Consultant Manoj Shah; providing local businesses with specialised Internet business strategies.

Website localization builds credibility

If your company only has a site in English and your competitor in all major languages, which one will gain more credibility? Localization of your website demonstrates that you are a truly international player. In addition, through localization it shows that you understand, value and have respect for that particular country or region.

Website localization increases revenue

Billions of dollars, pounds and francs in potential revenue are lost each year due to lack of investment in website localization. Most internet users will naturally feel more comfortable and understand a company better if their information, products or services are presented in their native language. By undergoing website localization process you access potentially millions of new customers.

It is clear that website localization is a must for any truly international business. In addition to technical and programming elements of website localization many cultural factors must be borne in mind.

For example, has language been translated properly and cultural variations in terminology, phrases, metaphors and sayings been taken into consideration? Have symbols, graphics, pictures, colours and general layout been viewed for their cultural applicability?

Website localization is a huge investment and should not be viewed as a straightforward process. When localizing your site, ensure you get expertise of both a website designer and a cross cultural communications consultancy to ensure your site has maximum impact on target audience.