Translation Guidelines

To understand how we manage translations for Primero, it is important to distinguish between some key concepts:

What is GILT?: GILT stands for Globalization, Internationalization (i18n), Localization (l10n) and Translation. When introducing a new language, each of these has a role to play.

You can read a short explanation of these concepts here.

Managing Translations using Transifex

In order to adapt to local contexts, Primero needs to be able to be translated into different languages. Primero uses Transifex to do this. This guidance is in addition to the Transifex Videos and describes the process of translating forms and fields in Primero.

If you are helping in translating the languages, please follow the process defined in the videos.

There are 2 types of translations required for Primero.

1. Application string translations: these translations are required for the application interface and messaging. For example words like “login” or “case”, the labels on buttons, and the messages that appear when you complete an action are all application strings. These are required to be translated in Transifex.

Application strings are currently 14,661 words. This typically takes a volunteer translator 3 - 4 days to complete. As new features are added, these strings might require further translation. For example, the French application strings can be completely translated, but then a new Primero release introduces new strings, requiring us to revisit the Transifex project and complete additional translations. Pulling translations from Transifex and adding them to Primero requires support from a tech vendor.

1. Form translations: these translations are required for the fields and forms within a case or incident. These translations can be done through the user interface (UI) going to the Settings > Forms > Manage Translations. These translations can be saved and promoted as part of the configuration.

Forms are currently 6,000 words for GBVIMS+ and 9,000 words for CPIMS+ that require translation. This typically takes a volunteer translator 2-3 days to complete.

Both the Application Strings and Form translations need to be reviewed by a “Reviewer” who understands the application and can work to ensure consistency across the translations.

Commonly used languages (French, Spanish, Arabic) are all translated through Transifex so we can easily share / upload those languages for other implementations requiring them. Developers can pull existing translations completed in Transifex and apply them directly to a new implementation if this is the preferred route.

Available Translations

There are 60+ languages already translated and available for a Primero implementation. Please reach out to the Primero team if you would like to verify if your language is already translated and ready to use.