Model Service Elements

The localization industry has a problem: even its most basic terms—items like localization, translation, proofreading, and review—are undefined, leading to confusion about services and prices. If one language service provider (LSP) offers “translation” at €0.15/word and another at €0.12/word, the prices may not be comparable if those services define translation differently (e.g., one may include third-party review and terminology research in its price while the other does not).

The GALA Model Service Elements project aims to define the terms and services used in the industry to provide a neutral, third-party reference that all parties can rely on, as well as business resources (such as tools for building RFPs, SLAs, project plans, etc.). By bringing transparency to the localization industry, this project will help professionalize the industry, reduce conflict, increase buyer confidence, and promote quality services that meet buyer needs.

What Will the Model Services Project Deliver?

• Definitions of industry terms. Industry terms will be determined by the localization community through an online portal and made available through the GALA website. Definitions will be updated twice a year to reflect changes and developments in the industry.

• Descriptions of basic industry tasks. Tasks will be defined by what resources are needed and what outcome they produce, allowing users to build process models. These descriptions will help buyers understand what they can expect from various service offerings and what they are paying for.

• Business tools for generating RFPs, SLAs, etc. Business resources will assist buyers in getting the services they need and providers in conveying their unique value propositions. These tools will promote transparency concerning prices and service offerings.

• Promotion of resources for buyer-side procurement staff. The project will promote resources to help buyer-side procurement staff in understanding specific requirements for obtaining localization services. As the project progresses, it will also develop a certification program for procurement staff to demonstrate their knowledge.

What are the Benefits of Participation?
By participating in the project, you can ensure that the definitions reflect your needs and that the business resources cover your requirements. By using the definitions and models provided by the project, buyers will have confidence that they are getting the services they need and localization companies will know that they are providing the services their clients actually want. Using these service definitions consistently will help professionalize the industry and promote best practices and transparency.

How Can You Get Involved?
GALA is in the process of setting up web-based tools to work on this project. These tools will be rolled out in November 2011. Sign up for the to be informed when.

Making Standards Work for the Localization Industry   The GALA Standards Initiative is a non-profit effort organized by the Globalization and Localization Association (GALA). Information contained in these pages is subject to periodic update. Questions and comments may be sent to .