Global Content Management Systems (GCMS)

Traditional localization processes typically relied on a workflow in which entire projects (often consisting of hundred or thousands of files) were completed and then localized into multiple languages. However, this model is not suitable for web sites that are constantly changing, often with little or no central control over the process. Manually tracking site changes is an almost impossible task, so global content management systems (also known as global translation management systems or globalization management systems) starting appearing in the late 1990s. These systems were specifically engineered to facilitate localization of web site content, but have since been extended to work with other content. Their functionality is increasingly being integrated with general content management systems (CMS).

GCMS typically consist of an engine that monitors content for change and a component that, using business rules specific to each organization, passes content to translators or other linguistic tools for further processing. It also manages the workflow and synchronization of translated content with the source language versions.

Although GCMS are complex tools, they are currently the only way to successfully localize the large and dynamic bodies of web content that customers increasingly rely upon for everything from sales to tech support. (For more information on GCMS, please read the LISA Best Practice Guide, Managing Global Content.)