Measuring return on investment in a translation project

translation project for a company is an investment aimed at internationalizing the product or service it offers, reaching potential target audiences abroad. Technology breaks down barriers and makes it possible to globalize markets wherever you are, as long as there is digital access for all.

But what about measuring return on investment (ROI) in a translation project? What percentage does translation represent in the company’s bottom line? Let us explain.

Considerations for Measuring Return on Investment in a Translation Project

ROI (return on investment) is a financial metric for calculating the ratio between investment and profit. So, it is data with mathematical logic and, as such, is expressed numerically.

When we talk about measuring return on investment in a translation project, we need to take all the parameters involved in the project into account:

  • The quality of the original content. The content must be useful and interesting. There’s no point in translating boring content or content that doesn’t meet users’ expectations.
  • The marketing strategies used to advertise the company’s products or services.
  • The use of SEM (Search Engine Marketing) positioning.
  • Brand management in digital markets.

 

Understanding the Contribution of Translation to ROI

So how much of the ROI equates strictly to translation? Although it’s difficult to express in numbers how much of the profit can be attributed to the explicit cost of the work of professional translators, we can quantify how collaborating with a quality translation service benefits ROI.

 

The importance of translation in improving ROI

Although the digitalization and globalization of companies was already a reality, the pandemic period intensified this process even further. An increasing number of online shoppers are demanding a personalized shopping experience in their native language.

This is why translating your project benefits your ROI in several significant ways:

  • A study by global strategy consulting firm McKinsey & Company, Inc. indicates that the ability to personalize the shopping experience increases sales by 5% to 15%. This demonstrates that effective translation can directly impact revenue generation.
  • Good translation and localization work enhances brand reputation. SEO translation better positions the company’s digital content. The higher the positioning, the greater the increase in web traffic, which contributes positively to the overall return on investment.
  • In 2020, U.S. consulting firm CSA Research published the third edition of its CRWB report (Can’t Read, Won’t Buy) in which 31,933 consumers were surveyed for a representative sample of 8,709 in 29 countries. The result is clear: 66% choose the website that offers information in their own language, and 75% would choose the brand again if customer service is available in their native language. This reinforces the idea that localized communication can significantly enhance customer loyalty, leading to a higher return on investment.
  • Translating and localizing content opens up new markets for the company’s products and services and, consequently, increases the number of customers. By effectively communicating with potential clients in their native languages, companies can tap into previously inaccessible markets, further boosting their return on investment.
  • Additionally, utilizing a professional translation agency often means gaining access to their expertise in cultural nuances and local market trends, ensuring that your content resonates with the target audience. This targeted approach can lead to higher conversion rates, translating directly into increased revenue.

It may not be easy to measure return on investment in a translation project, but what is certain is that undertaking a translation project with an expert translation agency always benefits the company’s bottom line and image. By investing in professional translation, businesses not only enhance their market reach but also improve their overall profitability and brand strength in the global marketplace. Ultimately, this investment paves the way for sustainable growth and long-term success in diverse international markets.

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