Translating XLIFF files (XML 1.2 and 2.0 Localization Interchange File Format) is standard in the language translation process. Dealing with errors during XLIFF file translation is sure to throw a wrench into your productivity.

In the words of ISO.org, the purpose of the XLIFF format is to “store localizable data and carry it from one step of the localization process to the other, while allowing interoperability between and among tools.” The fact that XLIFF is supposed to facilitate easier localization makes it extra frustrating when you receive confusing import / export errors from an XLIFF translation tool or other software. 

Regardless of these errors, if you learn how to translate XLIFF files online the right way, your productivity will skyrocket when it comes to language translation.

What you’ll learn

To make it easier and faster to translate an XLIFF file into another language, use enterprise translation software optimized for XLIFF files. This applies whether you translate files for Articulate, for example, or another localization purpose.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this article:

• The importance of XLIFF: Why this format is essential for streamlined localization workflows.
• How to translate XLIFF files: A straightforward method to easily translate your XLIFF files.
• How to avoid common errors: Tips for minimizing issues like import/export errors.

Recommended features: A list of the top 10 features to seek in an XLIFF translation tool. 

Read this list of the top 10 features to look for in an XLIFF translation tool online. We’ll recommend a solution at the end of this post. 

Top 10 Software Features for Translating XLIFF Files

1. Machine Translation

Want to translate XLIFF files while minimizing the need for human translation? Use Machine Translation. In most cases, it will create a credible “first” draft translation. 

Choose an XLIFF translator that is optimized to parse the newest XLIFF file format. This way, it’s more likely you won’t encounter import and export issues when you translate XLIFF files. 

2. Batch XLIFF file translation

Some online XLIFF translation tools only allow translation of XLIFF files one at a time. If you produce large amounts of localized content, this reason alone might be why you want to learn how to translate XLIFF files more productively. 

That being said, XLIFF translators that accept files in batches (groups) are hands down the best way to translate an XLIFF file while saving time. This is also referred to as “batch translation.”

3. Terminology Management

Localization calls for consistency across many languages. Therefore, when you translate XLIFF files into another language, you want to keep your terminology consistent. To do this efficiently, seek a strong Terminology Management component in an XLIFF translator tool. 

First, learn how to create a termbase and then import it into your translation management system. This enhances productivity within the human translation workflow while improving the quality and consistency of translations.

4. AI-powered translations 

The best way to translate XLIFF files online with repetitive text is to leverage Translation Memory and Dynamic Machine Learning.

A Translation Memory is a bilingual repository that consists of sentences, phrases and segments that have been previously translated from one language into another. Translation Memories can deliver nearly-instant quality improvements and reduce translation costs and effort, especially for XLIFF files. 

Translate once and never translate the same online content again.

Watch the 2-minute video below to get a better understanding of Translation Memory and Dynamic Machine Learning.

5. XLIFF translation editing

Choose XLIFF translation software that has a translation editor. This way, you can improve machine-translated segments that require quality improvements. At the same time, you store them in a Translation Memory for future re-use. 

Consequently, you present the highest quality multilingual content to your users, employees, students and/or customers. 

When you leverage the power of translation editing along with Dynamic Machine Learning, your productivity improves. 

For example, you can automatically find and replace all repetitions of a low-quality translation across a file when you edit just one instance of it. You can produce custom translations with just a glossary and use your Translation Memory for on-the-fly machine translation training.

In effect, you train your translation engine over time to deliver continuous quality improvements.

6. Translates XLIFF files online (always)

In today’s world, using software with web-based access is vital to working productively and with ease. 

There are simply too many obstacles you can encounter when using a desktop-based program you need to download, or a solution that offers a desktop-first hybrid. That’s why we highly recommend you choose an online translation solution for XLIFF file translation. 

We’ll recommend a web-first solution at the end of this post.

7. Encrypted cloud storage

Encrypted cloud storage is an important part of translating XLIFF files online more securely and efficiently. You will eliminate confusion over which file version is the most current while creating centralized access for your authorized colleagues.

8. Translates more than XLIFF files

If your company also translates non-XLIFF files, find XLIFF translator software that also performs file translation for other formats. This way, you avoid the use of separate solutions and build and leverage a larger Translation Memory in one place.

9. Collaboration

Does your team collaborate on XLIFF translation? Does someone review and approve translations? You’ll want features that help your team work together efficiently. 

Look for an XLIFF file translator with functionality such as translation history tracking, instant messaging, file sharing, bookmarking and user permission controls.

10. Compatible with all the languages you need

It’s one thing to just translate an XLIFF file to English from Spanish, for instance. It’s another thing to translate an XLIFF file to multiple languages. 

Therefore, it’s important to use a translator tool that has all the language pairs your company needs now and will anticipate needing in the future.

Troubleshooting common XLIFF translation issues

No one likes errors that throw a wrench into their productivity. Unfortunately, XLIFF files are prone to a few common issues. Here’s how you can handle them:

1. Import/Export Errors: Ensure your file matches the expected XLIFF format (1.2 or 2.0).
2. Encoding Problems: Ever seen strange symbols replace characters in your text? That’s often due to mismatched encoding. Always save your files in UTF-8 to maintain compatibility.
3. Tag Mismatches: Missing or altered tags can stop your translation software in its tracks. Use Pairaphrase’s validation features to identify and fix these problems before they slow you down.
4. Corrupted Files: If a file is corrupted, open it in a text editor to identify incomplete tags or broken structure. Then revalidate before proceeding.

Best practices for managing XLIFF files

How you manage your XLIFF files can make or break your workflow. Here are some tips:

1. Version Control: Store your files in Pairaphrase’s encrypted cloud to keep everything centralized and up to date.
2. Naming Conventions: Use clear, consistent names for your files to avoid confusion.
3. Archiving: Keep completed translations organized and accessible for future use.

Why use Pairaphrase translation software for XLIFF files? 

Pairaphrase makes translating XLIFF files simpler than ever. Here’s how:

• Easy Uploads: Upload your XLIFF files directly into the platform.
• Real-Time Translation: Get immediate results with Machine Translation and refine them with (minimal) human post-editing.
• Error Detection: Automatically spot and fix common XLIFF issues, saving you hours of frustration.
• OpenAI Integration: Leverage AI-driven translation enhancements through OpenAI’s advanced language models for contextually accurate suggestions. Pairaphrase seamlessly integrates OpenAI technology to optimize translations further, especially for complex or nuanced content right within the platform

Localization: Not all XLIFF files are created equal, and localization needs can vary widely. XLIFF localization is crucial for eLearning*, Software UI, and most multilingual projects. *As highlighted by Articulate, “The ability to export course text to XLIFF for translation emphasizes the practicality and industry acceptance of XLIFF in professional translation workflows.”

Recommended XLIFF File Translator 

Want to get started with the best XLIFF file translator? Try Pairaphrase. It’s the AI-powered translation management system for teams who value smarter, faster and safer translation. 

Pairaphrase supports 140+ languages and 20,000+ language pairs. Translate XLIFF files into Spanish, English, French, German, Arabic, Hindi, Chinese, Japanese and more. Not to mention, Pairaphrase performs file translation for 24 file types.

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