Contentful is a versatile content management system that offers great flexibility and customization. However, this flexibility can also present unique challenges, especially when it comes to Contentful translation projects. Here are some important questions to consider as you plan your Contentful translation project:

1) What Version of Contentful Are You Using?
Understanding the version of Contentful you’re working with is essential, as different versions may offer various features and compatibility options for translation add-ons and integrations. Ensure your translation provider is experienced with your specific Contentful setup.

2) Is There a Staging Environment Available?
A staging environment is critical for testing translations before they go live. Ideally, you should have a duplicate Contentful space where you can test the receipt and transfer of content using Contentful’s webhooks. This allows for safe experimentation and adjustment without affecting the live site.

3) How Is Localized Content Stored?
Determine whether localized content is stored in an entirely separate Contentful space or if you are using locales at the individual field level. This decision impacts how translations are managed and integrated into your existing content structure.

4) What Translation Capabilities Does Contentful Offer?
Contentful supports translation capabilities through add-ons such as Smartling. Familiarize yourself with these tools and determine which ones best meet your project’s needs. Consider whether they support the file formats and encoding (such as XLIFF and UTF-8) you require.

5) Are There In-House Development Resources?
Evaluate whether you have in-house resources to manage server-side changes, such as stylesheets, scripts, and templates. This technical support can facilitate the translation process and ensure smooth integration of translated content.

6) What Is Your Content Structure?
One of Contentful’s main features is extensive content reuse through content linking. Assess whether your content for translation comprises many linked individual modules or one or two larger modules. This understanding will guide your translation strategy and help manage dependencies effectively.

7) How Will Translations Be Triggered?
Decide how translation requests will be initiated. Should individual users be able to trigger translation projects, or should administrators manage translation exports via a central tool? Consider whether automatic triggers or manual processes best suit your workflow.

8) Are You Open to Alternative Content Export Models?
Consider alternative content export models, such as triggering a bulk export of content from the site at regular intervals. This can be done by “crawling” the Contentful space for new or updated content since the last export. Discuss these options with your translation provider to find the most efficient approach.

9) How Involved Will Your Team Be?
It is important to clarify the level of involvement your team will have in the translation process. Identify any internal development resources you will utilize and establish clear roles and responsibilities to ensure a seamless workflow.

Conclusion
By addressing these questions upfront, you can better prepare for the challenges and opportunities of translating your Contentful based site. Your translation service provider should guide you throughout the process, carefully planning and collaborating to ensure a successful website localization project and help your brand grow globally. To learn more about Language Scientific’s website translation services click here. To contact us to request a quote for your Contentful Translation Project click here.