14 DAY TRIAL // Today, Redmond-based software giant Microsoft is offering new details on its Local Language Program (LLP), in recognition of International Mother Language Day.
Microsoft’s LLP offers support for the development of custom language translation, providing 1.7 billion people with the possibility to access technology in their own language, so that they could preserve local languages and cultural identities.
Clearly, technology is providing people with new ways to access and share information, and also helps them benefit from improved learning. Technology is also offering people means to address social and economic issues. But language also plays an important role in this, Microsoft notes.
“Providing technology in a native language is critical to helping people access the tools they need to create better economic opportunities,” said Anthony Salcito, vice president of Worldwide Education at Microsoft.
“Language preservation and support also help preserve cultural identities for the next generation of learners.”
Microsoft already offers products and services that underline the importance of language and culture through the LLP:
- Localized versions of Windows and Microsoft Office are available in 37 languages. - Nearly 100 languages are supported by Language Interface Packs through free downloads for Windows, Office and Visual Studio. - The Microsoft Terminology Collection provides uniformity of meaning to IT terms translated to the local language. - Microsoft Translator allows users to translate text and Web pages in 37 languages. - Microsoft Tellme, a speech recognition platform, works across multiple platforms simplifying everyday tasks. - The Microsoft Language Development Center works on many services, such as speech synthesis technology for under-resourced languages. In addition, through extensive research and development, it creates language opportunities for people worldwide with disabilities.
While technology does have a lot of benefits to offer, it is also clear that people need to have access to it to be able to use it. They also need skills to take advantage of what it delivers.
Microsoft notes that the LLP came up with Windows and Office in Basque, Valencian, Catalan and Galician for users in Spain, so that all people across the country could access it in their native language.