Hi Pedro,
I don't think it's an industry decision so much as a cultural or
linguistic one, depending more on the target language and audience
than the sector in question.
 
There are no exact rules, but factors that may influence whether a
term is translated or not include: 
- Proximity to/contact with an English speaking country.  
For example, a lot of English terms are used in Mexico but are
translated into Spanish in Spain, one example being "mouse" used in
Mexico as opposed to "ratón" in Spain.  Having said that, "radio
buttons" is not translated in Spain, so there is always a degree of
randomness(!).
- Ease of translation.  
If it's easy to translate and will therefore be understood by more
people, it makes sense to translate it.  If, on the other hand, there
is no easy way to translate it because the concept is new or the
nearest translation is not accurate, leaving the term in the original
language is sometimes the best solution.
- Existence of similar equivalents.
Ambiguity is best avoided whether that means keeping the term in the
language it is derived from or translating it.
- Business and IT language trends.
What is more common in business and IT news?  How are the subjects
taught in universities? 
The press and the education system have a lot of influence in
developing country-wide practices.

In summary, I'm not sure it would make sense to say there was a
correct IxD way to handle IxD terms. The best way would surely be
that which communicates the idea most effectively to the target
audience.

Regards,

Elizabeth


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Posted from the new ixda.org
http://www.ixda.org/discuss?post=24865


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