A Guide To eLearning Localisation
2 Jun 2025
eLearning is an essential tool for delivering consistent training and development, particularly across international teams. But if your content is only available in one language, or doesn’t take local culture into account, this can limit engagement and reduce effectiveness.
That’s where eLearning localisation comes in. Read on to learn what eLearning translation services involve, the difference between eLearning translation and localisation, and how it can work for you.
What is eLearning localisation?
eLearning localisation is the complete process of adapting your training materials for each target audience, not only linguistically, but culturally and technically.
Your translation service provider will typically carry out the following services:
On-screen text and script translation – All visible text and narration scripts are accurately translated to maintain tone and clarity.
Graphics and image localisation – Visual elements are adapted to reflect appropriate cultural context and meaning.
Voiceover and dubbing – Multilingual voiceover services ensure the delivery matches your brand and course tone.
Subtitling – Culturally relevant and perfectly timed subtitles are created and synced.
File engineering – All translated content is integrated within your course files, including SCORM packages for LMS compatibility.
Complete integration and testing – Every element is tested for functionality, consistency and user experience.
What’s the difference between eLearning translation and eLearning localisation?
This is quite simple, as eLearning translation is just this: the translation of the words provided. However, localisation may be required to ensure the whole learning experience is transferred to the desired language and audience. This involves adapting all content, such as multimedia and graphics, to make sure learners can still get the most out of the translated course.
At Intonation, we provide a range of eLearning localisation services to ensure your courses can resonate worldwide. Our translations go through a rigorous testing process, so accuracy is guaranteed.
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Why localise your eLearning content?
As we all know, training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Localising eLearning content makes it more impactful, relevant, and inclusive. Here’s why organisations use it:
- Global reach – Training can be extended to international teams and learners, regardless of their location.
- Increased engagement – It’s no surprise that learners can find it easier to absorb content when it’s in their native language and culturally appropriate.
- Cultural relevance – Having content tailored to each audience allows you to avoid misunderstandings and improve relatability.
- Regulatory compliance – This helps regional standards and training requirements to be met.
- Stronger brand reputation – eLearning translation allows brands to showcase their commitment to global learning and inclusion.
- Training consistency – This ensures learners receive the same high-quality content, wherever they are.
Why Intonation?
As an award-winning translation company, your learners’ experience is our priority at Intonation. That’s why our range of eLearning services are carried out by industry experts.
Our eLearning services cover:
Visual content – We adapt images, graphics, infographics, and UI / UX elements to create a seamless learning experience.
Text-based content – Including course descriptions, instructional text, assessments, quizzes, certificates and badges.
Multimedia – We provide voiceover services, subtitling, captions, and carry out the localisation of text and audio for animations.
Interactive elements – This can cover simulations and scenarios, as well as games, quizzes, and interactive exercises.
As well as being ISO 9001:2015 certified, we only use mother-tongue translators, so you can be sure your eLearning content is as accurate as possible.
FAQs
What’s the difference between localisation and translation?
Localisation includes translation, but also involves adapting images, audio, formatting and even tone to suit the cultural context of your learners.
Can you localise multimedia content like audio and video?
Yes! We provide full voiceover and subtitling services, matched to your course’s tone and technical requirements.
How long does it take to localise an eLearning course?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity and number of languages, but we’ll always work with you to meet your schedule.
Can we review the content before it goes live?
Absolutely. We offer review stages and incorporate feedback to make sure everything is spot-on before final delivery.
What happens if we need to update the content later?
We can manage ongoing updates across languages to ensure consistency over time.