Master Figma's Localization: Translate Text Layers Using XLIFF Files

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Localization?
3. Benefits of Localizing Designs
4. The Copy Doc Plugin
   • Installing the Plugin
   • Exporting XLIFF Files
   • Translating with XLIFF Files
   • Importing Translated Text into Figma
5. Tips for Translating Text Layers
   • Handling Uninstalled Fonts
   • Using Translation Software
6. Best Practices for Localization
   • Collaborating with Translators
   • Testing and Reviewing Translations
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Localization is a crucial aspect of design that allows You to adapt your designs to different languages and cultures. Translating text layers in design files can be a time-consuming and tedious task, but with the right tools, it can be made more efficient. In this article, we'll explore how to use the Copy Doc plugin in Figma to easily localize your designs using XLIFF files.

What is Localization?

Localization refers to the process of adapting a design or content to a specific locale or target audience by translating the text and modifying elements to suit the cultural preferences and conventions of that audience. It involves more than just translating words; it takes into account factors such as date and time formats, currencies, units of measurement, and even color symbolism.

Benefits of Localizing Designs

Localizing your designs offers several benefits, including:

1. Increased accessibility: By translating your designs into different languages, you can reach a wider audience and make your content more accessible to people around the world.

2. Better user experience: When users can Interact with your designs in their native language, they are more likely to engage with your product and have a positive user experience.

3. Improved brand Perception: A localized design shows that you value your users' cultural Context and are dedicated to providing a tailored experience, which enhances your brand's reputation.

4. Increased market potential: With localization, you can tap into new markets and expand your user base, potentially leading to higher sales and revenue.

The Copy Doc Plugin

The Copy Doc plugin in Figma simplifies the localization process by allowing you to export and import XLIFF files for translation. Here's how you can use it:

Installing the Plugin

To get started, install the Copy Doc plugin from the Figma community. Simply search for "Copy Doc" in the Figma plugin section and click on the "Install" button.

Exporting XLIFF Files

Once the plugin is installed, select the text layers in your Figma file that you want to localize. Right-click anywhere on the canvas, go to "Plugins," and click on "Copy Doc Text Kit." In the plugin window, click on the "Export/Import XLIFF" button.

In the export/import dialog, select the source language (the language already in your Figma file) and the target language (the language you want to translate the design into). Choose the XLIFF format (1.2 or 2.0) and click on the "Export XLIFF" button. Save the exported XLIFF file to your desktop.

Translating with XLIFF Files

To translate the text in the XLIFF file, open it using a text editor or code editor. Each frame in your Figma design will have a corresponding translation unit in the XLIFF file. The source tag contains the text from Figma, while the target tag is where the translated text should be added.

Copy the source text and paste it into the target section, translating it into the desired language. You can use translation software like Google Translate for this step. Once you've translated all the text, save the XLIFF file.

Importing Translated Text into Figma

Back in your Figma file, open the Copy Doc plugin again and click on the "Export/Import XLIFF" button. This time, choose the "Import translated text from XLIFF to Figma" option.

Drag and drop the translated XLIFF file into the designated area in the plugin window. Figma will Read the file and Show the updated text, allowing you to review and verify the translations. Click on the "Update Figma text layers translation" button to Apply the translations to your design.

Tips for Translating Text Layers

When translating text layers in Figma, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Handling Uninstalled Fonts

If a text layer uses a font that isn't installed on the user's machine, the plugin won't be able to update that text layer. Ensure that the necessary fonts are installed to allow for seamless translation. If the user doesn't have the font, they won't be able to edit or see the translated text.

Using Translation Software

While a text or code editor can be used to translate XLIFF files, it might not be the most efficient method. Consider using translation software or dedicated localization tools to streamline the translation process. These tools offer features like translation memory and glossary management, which can significantly speed up the translation workflow.

Best Practices for Localization

To make the most of your localization efforts, follow these best practices:

1. Collaborating with Translators: Work closely with professional translators who have a deep understanding of the target language and culture. Maintain clear communication and provide context to ensure accurate translations.

2. Testing and Reviewing Translations: Always test the localized design with native speakers or in the target market to ensure the translations are Fluent and culturally appropriate. Review user feedback and iterate the design if necessary.

Conclusion

Localization plays a crucial role in reaching a global audience and creating a Meaningful user experience. By using plugins like Copy Doc in Figma, you can simplify the localization process and efficiently translate text layers in your designs. Remember to collaborate with translators, test the translations, and continually refine your localized designs to ensure they resonate with your target audience. Start localizing your designs today and unlock new opportunities for growth and success.

Highlights

1. Localization is the process of adapting designs to different languages and cultures.
2. Localizing designs improves accessibility, user experience, and market potential.
3. The Copy Doc plugin in Figma simplifies the localization process using XLIFF files.
4. Install the plugin, export XLIFF files, translate using a text editor, and import the translations back into Figma.
5. Handle uninstalled fonts and consider using translation software for efficient localization.
6. Collaborate with translators and test translations for fluency and cultural appropriateness.

FAQ

Q: Can I translate my Figma designs into multiple languages using the Copy Doc plugin? A: Yes, you can export multiple XLIFF files for each target language and import them back into Figma.

Q: What should I do if the translated text doesn't fit within the design elements? A: Adjust the design elements accordingly, considering that different languages may have longer or shorter text lengths.

Q: Can I export images along with the text for reference during translation? A: Yes, you can enable the option to export images of frames alongside the XLIFF file for translators' reference.