Streamlining the Process of Artwork Localization

When localizing artwork, most TEnTs (Translation Environment Tools) require that files in Quark or InDesign be previewed and proofed in a step separate and apart from translation. That separate step has been built into the processes used by many translation organizations. PointandGo! Localise (PAGL) is a rather new tool that allows the same person to perform both translation and proof while eliminating some of the extra steps typically involved.

PAGL comes with various online filter, TM, and workflow capabilities in its online white label portal, but the differentiator appears to be the real-time preview for Quark and InDesign file translation. The real-time preview can save quite a bit of time for those who like to preview as they translate or make minor adjustments, and its naturally much faster than reflowing text extracted via a story collector and/or even needing to save a file and open it separately.

It would be interesting to know how many organizations have linguists performing DTP where PAGL would actually help streamline this process. StorePoint International, the company that created the tool, recognizes that this is currently targeted at a niche market. What do you all think of this? Is this something that would help your process?

SDL has been doing a good job of acquiring more interesting translation technologies over the past few years. Maybe SDL or another TeNT developer will pay a nice price for StorePoint's IP and we'll see the real-time Quark and InDesign preview integrated into a future version of SDL Trados, Deja Vu, Catalyst, or other tools...

Here's a little preview (no sound needed):