[Localization] meaning of string freeze

Chris Leonard cjlhomeaddress at gmail.com
Mon Feb 8 01:54:21 EST 2010


It is important to realize that "string freeze" as a concept means that
developers should not change any UI strings until the release date.  It does
NOT mean that translators can't translate more strings.  In fact, string
freeze is typically the start point for translation teams to do their last
finishing work on reviewing and completing their PO files.

There is never a bad time for a translator to do their work, all strings
contributed are useful.  If it is important for a language team to meet a
target date for completing their work (sometimes coorresponding to a new
Sugar release) then string freezes represent opportunities to complete that
work and know that the language localization will be part of a widely
distributed release.  Language files completed after the release date will
still be available for download and use, so missing a release date timeline
is not typically critical for a language team.

Just wanted to clear up any confusion.  String freezes are meant to make it
easier for localizers to do their work on a set of strings that will not
change until after the release, it is not a deadline for translation
activity.  It is something that language administrators should take note of
so they can review and commit their projects PO files.

cjl
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