Moving an interface to another language is not just about changing the texts. A freelance interface designer handles navigation layout, content flow, and mixed text areas for right-to-left languages. Mirroring the entire screen may not produce accurate results for every element.
Identify elements for which direction has meaning
Elements such as back, forward, and step order may be related to reading direction. Brand signs, product photographs and some media icons should not be translated with the same logic. Evaluate each element's orientation based on its function. Writing decisions at the component level facilitates consistency in subsequent screens.
Prepare real examples with mixed content
Phone number, email, product code and foreign brand names can coexist with text in different directions. A check with short sample titles alone does not show these problems. Examine the layout with realistic length examples in forms, tables and notifications.
Verify with linguist
Translation accuracy and natural reading of the interface are different checks. It is useful to evaluate task flows with people using the target language. Deliver to the development team not only screenshots, but also direction behavior and exceptions. Check separately the effect of long texts on mobile sizes.
Brief check before delivery
- Is directional behavior defined on a component-by-component basis?
- Have examples containing codes, emails and numbers been tried?
- Did the people using the target language evaluate the flow?
Clarify scope with Selçuk Aker
When working with Selçuk Aker, you can consider these decisions within the scope of UI/UX design. For the first meeting, share existing files, usage environment, and target delivery date. Multilingual web design preparation completes this preparation.
Frequently asked questions
Should all icons be mirrored?
No. The function and cultural use of the symbol must be evaluated; automatic batch conversion may give incorrect results.
Is just aligning the text right enough?
No. Navigation, widget order, and mixed content behavior should also be addressed.
Can the same design system be used?
Available; However, change of direction and exceptions should be made clear rules of the system.
