Translating XLIFF Files with DeepL and Alternatives for eLearning

Translating XLIFF files can be a daunting task, but with the right tools, it becomes a seamless process. This article will guide you through understanding the XLIFF file format, DeepL’s support for XLIFF files, and the steps to translate these files. We’ll also explore alternatives for specific eLearning needs, along with troubleshooting tips and best practices for accurate translations.

Key Takeaways

• DeepL supports XLIFF file translation in its web translator, desktop apps, and API for specific plans, but only for XLIFF 2.1 files.
• For XLIFF 1.2 files, especially in eLearning contexts, alternatives like eLearning Translator provide specialized solutions.
• The <source> and <target> elements within the parent <trans-unit> element are crucial for the translation process.
• Common issues include version mismatches and unsupported elements, which require specific troubleshooting steps.
• Best practices include maintaining context and reviewing translations to ensure accuracy.

Understanding XLIFF File Format

XLIFF stands for XML Localization Interchange File Format. It’s a type of XML document that’s widely used in software localization, making it easy to localize all kinds of digital products and services. The XML Localization Interchange File Format (or XLIFF) is an OASIS-blessed standard format for translations.

XLIFF is a bilingual file format that is often used in the translation industry and stands for XML Localization Interchange File Format. It is based on the markup language XML.

Key Elements of XLIFF

An XLIFF file looks like a piece of code that breaks down source content into various segments stored in tags. The file contains the original source text as well as its translation. This makes it incredibly useful for translation as it holds all of the content that needs to be localized along with the content in the translated languages.

Version Compatibility

XLIFF is widely used and supported by the majority of translation tools. However, it’s important to ensure version compatibility when working with XLIFF files to avoid issues during the translation process. Different versions of XLIFF may have different features and capabilities, so understanding the version you are working with is crucial.

It’s worth noting that while DeepL supports XLIFF 2.1, many eLearning authoring tools, including Articulate Rise 360, export XLIFF 1.2. For these cases, specialized solutions like eLearning Translator are designed to handle XLIFF 1.2 files, ensuring compatibility with popular eLearning platforms.

DeepL’s Support for XLIFF Files

DeepL offers robust support for translating XLIFF files, but there are specific requirements and limitations to be aware of. DeepL only supports .xliff files with the version 2.1. This means that if your file is in a different version, you will need to convert it to 2.1 before uploading or consider alternative solutions.

Supported Plans

DeepL’s support for XLIFF files is available on several subscription plans. These include:

• DeepL Pro Advanced
• DeepL Pro Ultimate
• DeepL API Free
• DeepL API Pro

Each of these plans allows you to use the document translation feature to translate XLIFF files.

Supported Versions

When translating XLIFF files with DeepL, all texts stored in <source> elements will be considered for the translation. However, it’s important to note that only files with the version 2.1 are supported. If your XLIFF file was not translated correctly, it might be due to a version mismatch. Make sure your file adheres to the supported version to avoid any issues.

For XLIFF 1.2 files, particularly those used in eLearning contexts, tools like eLearning Translator offer a more direct solution without the need for version conversion.

Steps to Translate XLIFF Files

The translation process varies depending on the tool you’re using. Here’s a general outline:

Preparing Your XLIFF File

Before uploading, ensure your XLIFF file is in the correct format for your chosen tool. For DeepL, this means XLIFF 2.1. For eLearning-specific tools like eLearning Translator, XLIFF 1.2 is typically supported.

Uploading and Translating

1. Log in to your chosen translation platform.
2. Navigate to the file upload or document translation feature.
3. Upload your XLIFF file.
4. Select the target language for translation.

Retrieving the Translated File

Once the translation is complete, download the translated file. The process for this step may vary depending on the tool you’re using.

For eLearning professionals working with Articulate Rise 360 or other platforms that export XLIFF 1.2, eLearning Translator offers a streamlined process tailored to these specific needs.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Version Mismatch

One of the most common issues when working with XLIFF files is a version mismatch. Different tools and platforms may support different versions of the XLIFF standard, leading to compatibility issues. Always ensure that the version of the XLIFF file you are using is supported by your chosen translation tool.

Handling Unsupported Elements

Some translation tools may not support all elements within an XLIFF file. Unsupported elements can cause errors or result in incomplete translations. To handle this, you can:

• Pre-process your XLIFF file to remove or modify unsupported elements.
• Use a translation tool that specifically supports the elements in your XLIFF file, such as eLearning Translator for eLearning-specific XLIFF files.

Best Practices for Accurate Translations

Maintaining Context

When translating XLIFF files, it’s crucial to maintain the context of the original text. The ability to translate files is by far the best when the context is preserved, ensuring that the translated content is both accurate and meaningful. Use translation memories to tap into previous translations and reuse them in the current project. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency across translations.

Reviewing Translations

After the initial translation, always review the translated content. This step is essential to catch any errors or nuances that machine translation might have missed. Consider setting up glossaries to manage terminology effectively. This practice is very practical and helps in maintaining the quality and accuracy of the translations.

Full layout preservation is another key aspect. Get a high-quality translation without the hassle of having to adjust the document format post-translation—saving both time and effort.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your translations are not only accurate but also contextually appropriate and consistent.

Conclusion

Translating XLIFF files is a critical process for creating multilingual eLearning content. While DeepL offers powerful translation capabilities for XLIFF 2.1 files, it’s important to consider alternatives like eLearning Translator for XLIFF 1.2 files, especially when working with popular eLearning authoring tools like Articulate Rise 360.

By choosing the right translation tool for your specific needs and following best practices, you can streamline your localization process and create high-quality multilingual eLearning content efficiently. Whether you’re using DeepL, eLearning Translator, or another solution, always ensure version compatibility and maintain context to achieve the best results in your eLearning translation projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is XLIFF and why is it important?

XLIFF (XML Localization Interchange File Format) is a standardized format used to store both the original text and its translation. It is important because it facilitates the localization process by keeping the source and target texts in a structured format.

Which DeepL plans support XLIFF file translation?

DeepL supports XLIFF file translation in the following plans: DeepL Pro Advanced, DeepL Pro Ultimate, DeepL API Free, and DeepL API Pro.

What versions of XLIFF are supported by DeepL?

DeepL only supports XLIFF files with version 2.1.

Are there alternatives for translating XLIFF 1.2 files, especially for eLearning content?

Yes, for XLIFF 1.2 files, particularly those exported from eLearning authoring tools like Articulate Rise 360, specialized solutions such as eLearning Translator are available. These tools are designed to handle XLIFF 1.2 files and cater specifically to eLearning translation needs.

How do I choose between DeepL and eLearning Translator for my XLIFF translation needs?

The choice depends on the version of XLIFF you’re working with and your specific use case. If you’re working with XLIFF 2.1 files, DeepL is a robust option. However, if you’re in the eLearning industry and working with XLIFF 1.2 files, especially from tools like Articulate Rise 360, eLearning Translator might be more suitable as it’s tailored for these specific needs.