Summary

• Defaults that change from locale to locale include spoken languages; written scripts; sorting orders; keyboard layouts; input methods; common paper sizes; and date, time, number, and currency formats.
• Internationalization involves creating a functional core code base and a generic feature design that can serve as the basis for all language editions of a product.
• Different language editions of Windows can be grouped in categories with similar development issues. Once you have created a program for one language in a category, the development effort involved in creating editions of your program for other languages in the same category is minimal.
• The level of localization required for a program to be successful depends on the target market. The more effort you spend, the higher the risk and cost, but the greater the potential return.
• The most effective process for creating localized products takes international considerations into account at the beginning of the product cycle and throughout development, and expedites the shipping of multiple language editions.