Localised online training based on multilingual training platforms is the solution to help you engage and improve the skills of your learning ecosystem around the world. Whether it’s employees, partners, clients or distributors, localised digital learning is a simple and effective way to maximise the success of your online training programmes.
Switzerland is the perfect example of the benefits of multilingual learning
Native country of our company, Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. And in fact, many more languages are spoken! This makes Switzerland a good case study for multilingual training platforms, because on the market, this characteristic is a unique and indispensable selling point of the “Swiss made” stamp.
Putting language at the heart of training: what are the advantages?
When we think of a multilingual LMS platform, we don’t just think of the language of the learning content. Indeed, linguistic and cultural factors also influence one’s ability to learn and assimilate knowledge. In this case, the translation of the e-learning content is not enough. The content must also be localised.
Localisation includes transforming the training material, portal interface and content so that it looks like it was designed specifically for the local user. This means modifying the visual elements of the interface and content, text and audio content to match the culture and behaviour of the learner’s specific location. Localisation also takes into account changes to data presentation, such as units of measurement and date formatting.
Here are four advantages of multilingual learning platforms:
Ensure safety
Leave no room for misunderstandings by correctly translating the manuals and user guides for your product or service. So you can ensure the safety of your internal teams, partners or clients.
Engage your staff
Localisation is a great way to ensure that every member of your ecosystem receives the same high level of respect and attention, and boosts the sense of belonging to your organisation.
Ensure compliance
Localisation also takes into account local rules and regulations to help guide your staff and avoid costly non-compliance.
Increase your revenue
With the benefits described above, we understand that the potential return on investment from spending on localised training is high and that investing in localised e-learning is not a luxury.
CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL as an example
A major media group known worldwide, CANAL+ offers television channels throughout the world through its subsidiary CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL.
CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL is responsible for running the distribution network across 40 countries and territories including different regions such as: Europe, Africa, Indian Ocean, Caribbean, Asia and South Pacific.
CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL has successfully delivered online training programmes to 15,000 learners around the world thanks to a localised approach based on a personalised learning offer:
- Content available in +15 languages,
- Visuals and content modified and adapted according to the region/country,
- Challenges to be met within and between countries,
- Ambassadors for each region.
How to get started in multilingual and localised training?
#1 Pay attention to the UX-UI
In terms of ergonomics and usability, there are no significant differences between cultures. Rather, it is a different perception of design (tastes and colours). Continental Europeans prefer simplified Scandinavian models, Anglo-Saxons opt for the visual richness of Netflix and Asians prefer rich features and pages filled with information.
#2 Start with a POC (Proof Of Concept)
Before proceeding with a global deployment, we advise you to first carry out a POC on a small but international population. This POC serves as a basis for learning and improving this scope if necessary.
#3 Be multicultural
Take into account the specificities of the different countries or populations: the relationship to time of internal and external teams, confidentiality, hierarchy, the concept of team or group, etc.
#4 Anticipate translation
Provide tools for translations in the language tabs, both for portals and for content.
#5 Decentralise localisation
Decentralise as much as possible and facilitate localisation in the country for e-learning content in particular, but also give autonomy to local teams to organise approaches and content in the most practical and relevant way for their region/country.
#6 Spread the use of Mobile Learning
The majority of the world’s population now owns a smartphone. Even if you control your computer equipment and do not finance mobiles, take into account the fact that your employees can use their personal smartphone for training. So think at least about responsive design and more broadly about the use of mobile learning.
Meet the learning goals of your international staff
The combination of a multilingual training platform and localisation makes online training content engaging, relevant, interactive and easily understandable, regardless of location and user language.
A localised training platform and content allows companies to connect with all of their global teams (whether internal or external), increase engagement and retention, and boost productivity.
Unleash the potential of your learning ecosystem with a multilingual digital learning solution, and take advantage of all its features to train the greatest number of learners, wherever they are in the world.
