Getting Started

This area covers the basics of project localization. Here you will find answers to help clarify what's needed to make a project go smoothly from start to finish. You'll also get an idea of your options and how you can make your next language localization project a success!

Q: What exactly is Luna Concepts?

A: Luna Concepts is a full-service multilingual graphics firm. Our job is to satisfy all phases of our clients' multilingual needs. This includes doing translation, name evaluations, typesetting, packaging, consulting, graphic design and web site localization.

Q: Can only large companies use your service?

A: No. Whether you're a smaller company just breaking into the localization field, or a Fortune 500 company who has experience doing localization projects, we're here for you. We like to establish long term working relationships with our clients, and through our knowledgeable staff, competitive rates, and attention to detail, we hope to do just that.

Q: How exactly is the translation side done?

A: Luna Concepts uses a network of Native Language Specialists to complete all the necessary steps of the project. Everything from translation, proofing, editing, name evaluations and testing for cultural sensitivity are done by Native Language Specialists. These Native Language Specialists are also cross referenced by their expertise and skills in certain areas such as Marketing, Medical, Technical, Computer Related and Legal. We make sure that you get the right people working on your project.

Q: Which languages do you support?

A: We offer a wide variety of target languages to choose from. These supported languages include, but are not limited to the following:

 

Chinese (Simplified)	French (France)	Korean	Spanish (Spain)
Chinese (Traditional)	German	Norwegian	Swedish
Czech	Greek	Polish	Tagalog
Danish	Hungarian	Portuguese (Brazil)	Thai
Dutch	Indonesian	Portuguese (Portugal)	Turkish
Finnish	Italian	Russian	Vietnamese
French (Canada)	Japanese	Spanish (Latin America)

Q: Do your Native Language Specialists check for cultural sensitivity?

A: Yes. Because we only use Native Language Specialists for your target country, these Specialists are encouraged to note any sensitive material which may not be suited for their home country. This ensures that your project is given the highest attention to detail for each target country.

Q: How exactly is the graphics side done?

A: Luna Concepts also has a network of Graphics Professionals who are fluent in the latest graphics applications and necessary tools to complete your goals. When translated text is placed into a document, the work is then proofed and re-proofed by Native Language Specialists to ensure accuracy.

Q: What can be done from the start to make a project go smoothly?

A: Many factors go into a successful project. However, communication is the key. Often times, many problems down the road could be solved from the start with easy and open communication. Thus, before beginning a project, it's a good idea to go into as much detail as possible so that we can forecast any potential pitfalls.

Q: What files are usually submitted to Luna Concepts?

A: This also depends on the project. For "Translation Only" projects, usually a hardcopy or an electronic file is submitted to us. For graphics related projects, we typically see English original artwork/files in Quark, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop or PageMaker. For web related projects, it's best to send the HTML files, along with any original source graphics if they need to be localized.

Q: What type of files will I receive back as a "Final Deliverable"?

A: Again, projects vary. However, usually for "Translation Only" projects, we will submit back to you either a hardcopy of the translated text, or an electronic file (provided that you have the system capabilities to view text in the target language). For graphics related projects, there are many options to choose from. We can submit back to you 1. An electronic file (in the same file format, or in another format of your choice). 2. An assembled Outline EPS file (this is usually used for target languages like Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Thai, Greek, and others.) 3. Film. With the wide variety of file formats to choose from, the choice is yours.

Q: What is the work flow for a typical project?

A: Actually, no project is ever "typical". However, a work flow usually consists of the following steps: 1. Client Original (text or graphics in English). 2. Text is sent out for translation. 3. Translation is proofed and edited by a second party. 4. Translation is given to a graphics team to place back into client original. 5. Document is re-proofed. 6. When final "OK" has been given, the client can then review the file. Obviously, depending on the client, other stages can be introduced along the way.

Q: What if we have a division in the target country? Will we be able to have our own native language people review the file?

A: Yes. This stage is usually called the "In-Country Review" stage. If you would like your own people to either supply translation, or to review the text that will be placed into the final document, this can be arranged.

Q: What is the typical turnaround time for a project?

A: This is nearly impossible to answer without seeing the complexity of each particular project. Any firm that can promise a quick turnaround time without thoroughly examining the project in detail, is actually doing you a disservice. We do offer a "Rush Service" for projects which need to get out yesterday. To find out the turnaround time for your particular project, please drop us a line.

Q: What about confidentiality? How can we be sure that our information remains our information?

A: We too place a strong importance on the confidentiality of our clients' data. Thus, all of our Native Language Specialists and Graphics Professionals are required to sign our Confidentiality Agreement before working on a project. This way you can be assured that your data remains your data.