Localisation means adapting a product or text to the language, culture and conventions of a specific region or target audience. For me, that means looking beyond the text itself. It also includes elements such as date formats, currencies, images and cultural references.
As a translator, I do more than ensure that a text is translated correctly — I make sure it genuinely feels Dutch. That is what localisation is all about. I adapt the content to the language, culture and expectations of a Dutch audience. This includes converting date formats, currencies and measurements, but also adjusting humour, imagery and references that may feel natural in the source language yet seem strange or meaningless in Dutch. A localised text does not read like a translation, but like a text written specifically for your Dutch-speaking audience.
Forms of address
A good example of localisation is the choice of form of address. English does not distinguish between formal and informal second-person pronouns, but Dutch does: you need to choose between “u” and “jij”. That choice says something about your brand and the way you address your customers, and I make sure it is applied consistently and appropriately throughout the text.
Prevent your text from missing the mark
If you skip localisation and settle for a direct translation, your audience will often notice. A text that does not resonate culturally can come across as distant, unnatural or even unprofessional, even when the translation is technically correct. For a website, app or marketing campaign, that can mean visitors disengage because the wording simply does not speak to them.
Especially in the Dutch market, where people are used to direct and natural communication, this can mean a missed opportunity. By entrusting localisation to me, you can be confident that your message will not only be understood, but will truly connect with your audience.
Very professional and knowledgeable.
Alessandra Pigliasco
Senior Project Manager
Sjoerd is one of the best English-Dutch translators I have had the pleasure of working with.
Ramy Hana
Egypt Office Director & Senior Project Manager
Euro-Com International B.V.
Excellent quality, always reliable and flexible.
Mathijs Mekes
Co-Owner
Helena Technical Translations
He effortlessly adapts when there are project changes and always asks the right questions, in some cases highlighting errors in source texts which clients then correct.
Thomas Boettger
Senior Project Manager
Localization at Summa Linguae Technologies
