Difference Between Globalization Testing and Localization Testing

Details: Last Updated: 21 January 2021

What is Localization Testing?

Localization testing is the software testing process for checking the localized version of a product for that particular culture or locale settings. The areas affected by localization testing are UI and content.

Globalization Testing

Globalization Testing is a software testing method used to ensure that the software application can function in any culture or locale (language, territory or code page) by testing the software functionalities using each type of international input possible. The purpose of Globalization testing is to ensure that software can be used internationally or worldwide. It is also called Internationalization Testing.

KEY DIFFERENCE

Globalization focuses on the application's world-wide capabilities whereas localization focuses on a subset of users in a given culture or locale.
In a globalized product, the code is separated from the messages or information while it is not necessary for the localized product
Globalization ensures that without breaking functionality, code can handle all international support, whereas Localization ensures verification of linguistic accuracy and resource attributes.
Globalization detects potential problems in application whereas localization provides validation of all application resources.

Globalization Testing vs Localization Testing

Globalization Testing	Localization Testing
Globalization testing checks the proper functioning of the product, using every type of international input possible. It ensures that without breaking functionality the code can handle all international support. For example I18N, is the process of planning and implementing products and services so that they can easily be adapted to specific languages and culture.	Localizing testing is done to ensure the quality of a product for a particular target or locale. For example, for French users, the testing product is denoted as L10N.
In a globalized product, a code is separated from the messages or information. With the help of globalization, it enables software to be used with different languages without having to redesign the complete software.	This is not necessary for a Localized product
Globalization focuses your application's capabilities on users as the generic user base.	Localization focuses on a subset of users in a given culture or locale.
Separation of testers from translators and engineers, ensuring a thorough and impartial approach.	It helps to reduce a time for testing since it's done for just on locale
Formalized bug reporting	It reduces overall testing and support costs
Detect potential problems in application design that could inhibit globalization	Validation of all application resources
It ensures that without breaking functionality code can handle all international support	Verification of linguistic accuracy and resource attributes. Check Typographical errors
Verification of linguistic accuracy and resource attributes	Consistency checking of printed documentation, messages, command key sequence etc.
Compatibility tests of hardware and application according to the product’s target region	Confirmation of input and display environment standards, adherence to the system. Usability of User Interface