The International Dimension, Part II Global Communications © 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke

ID 2-2 Study Questions What does it mean to localize software? What are the problems and issues of localizing and distributing databases worldwide? What are the consequences of global data communication?

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-3 What Does It Mean to Localize Software? Process of making program work in other languages – Unless designed from beginning, very expensive Translations will need to be created for: – User interface – Menu bars and commands – Icons – Forms, reports, and queries – Documentation – Error messages

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-4 Localizing Applications Translate Change graphics, terminology Allow for cultural differences Redesign forms and reports because text is different length Redraw illustrations Consider sorting orders Problems with languages that read top and bottom or right to left

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-5 Localizing During Development Simplifies process – Can adjust display techniques Example: display error numbers that are later matched to responses printed in multiple language Reduces cost – Less time consuming than coding messages and then having them translated and altered for localization

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-6 Problems and Issues of Localizing and Distributing Databases Worldwide Access to single database from multiple locations – Localization of database Multiple databases may be maintained – Relationships between databases Duplicated records Updating data – Localize databases Will both data and metadata be translated?

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-7 What Are the Consequences of Global Data Communications? Expanded global economy and workforce Technology users can skip generations – Example: cell phone may be first phone used Economic impacts – Example: coffee farmer in Kenya can sell beans directly to Starbucks Social consequences – Example: people are no longer restricted to trade only within a local market

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-8 Consequences, continued Political effects – Business transactions may be governed by laws of other cities, states, or countries Existing organizations and governments are challenged – Example: public telephone utility threatened by cell phone providers – Some countries have restricted technology

© 2008 Pearson Prentice Hall, Experiencing MIS, David Kroenke ID 2-9 Active Review What does it mean to localize software? What are the problems and issues of localizing and distributing databases worldwide? What are the consequences of global data communication?