Localization Today

István Lengyel, CEO and founder of BeLazy Technologies, talks about automation's pivotal role in the localization industry. He shares insights on the importance of visualizing data flows and embracing interoperability for success. The discussion highlights how mapping workflows can uncover hidden opportunities and the need for businesses to remain resilient and experimental in the face of market changes. István also reflects on the interdisciplinary approaches to localization challenges and the evolution of translation management systems.

Viviana Bernabé, Head of Accessibility and Interpretation at WeLocalize, delves into the intersection of AI and interpretation. She discusses the essential role of human interpreters in high-stakes scenarios and the need for inclusivity in AI practices. Viviana emphasizes the importance of trust and context in utilizing technology, while also reflecting on the future landscape that requires interpreters to adapt to new tools. The conversation sheds light on ethical considerations and the ongoing demand for human involvement in an increasingly AI-driven industry.

This panel brings together language policy advocates, legal experts, and industry leaders to unpack the implications of recent executive orders under the Trump administration—particularly the declaration of English as the official language and the revocation of a long-standing language access directive. Moderated by Eddie Arrieta (Multilingual Media), the discussion features Bruce Adelson (attorney and former DOJ official), Bill Rivers (language lobbyist and chair of SAFE AI), Mila Golovine (MasterWord CEO), and Giovanna Carriero Contreras (AAITE). The panel explores legal frameworks, symbolic impacts, real-world effects on hospitals and schools, and what professionals and communities can do to protect civil rights in uncertain times.

Interview by Deema Jaradat In this interview, Michael Mulé of the U.S. Department of Justice discusses the historical framework of language access in the United States, common counterarguments, and the use of automatic translation technologies in language access contexts. Interviewee Deema Jaradat provides key takeaways and shares some closing thoughts.

By Cameron Rasmusson On March 1, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring English the official language of the United States. The author reflects on the degree to which the executive order will reshape language access in the United States and how these changes might affect language service providers.

By Mimi Moore This author discusses the challenges and complexities of managing change in regulated industries, particularly medical device manufacturing, highlighting the reasons for the perceived slowness of these industries to adapt and emphasizing the need for regulatory scrutiny, risk management, and patient safety.

In this engaging discussion, Dima Jaradat, a PhD student in translation studies and global literacy instructor, highlights the critical need for high-quality machine translation for Arabic speakers. He addresses the unique linguistic challenges faced by Arabic users and emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive translations. Dima advocates for the involvement of linguists in improving machine translation technology and calls for standardized terminology to enhance the accuracy and efficacy of translations.

By Melissa May For clinical trials involving linguistically and culturally diverse patient populations, successful eConsent implementation goes beyond simply digitizing consent forms. A successful implementation strategy includes regulatory compliance, data privacy, and cultural sensitivity.

By Ryan Foley Although AI can enhance language services in regulated industries such as healthcare, legal services, government, and education, human expertise remains essential to ensure accuracy, safety, and compliance in critical situations.

By Ewandro Magalhães The author discusses the often misunderstood profession of interpreting, focusing on the psychological landscape of interpreters, the pressures they face, and why they may be perceived as difficult, unresponsive, or even arrogant.