XLIFF Editor - Quick and easy XLIFF file editing 

XLIFF, short for XML Localization Interchange File Format, is a file format widely used in software localization. It is designed to simplify the exchange of localization data during the translation process. Although the structure of this file format is quite simple, it can be difficult to manually edit these files if you're not tech-savvy. Errors related to syntax, closing tags, or file structure can easily creep in. Fortunately, there are tools designed to help us edit XLIFF files and prevent errors that typically arise during manual editing. In the sections that follow, we'll explain how the usage of such tools can help us.

Why using a tool for editing XLIFF files can be a game-changer? 

In today's rapid digital age, time-consuming manual tasks could lead to costly mistakes and extend the work duration. To help you understand the advantages of using tools specifically created for editing XLIFF files, we've outlined some important considerations below:

• Simplification for all users: XLIFF is an XML-based file format, which can make manual editing difficult for those with no tech background. However, the tools for editing XLIFF files that have user-friendly interfaces make the editing process accessible to everyone.

• Reduction of mistakes: Manual alterations in XLIFF files can cause various errors, like faulty syntax, missing closing tags, or incorrect file structures. The tools for editing XLIFF files manage updates and generate XLIFF files automatically, thus significantly reducing the risk of errors usually associated with manual editing.

• Efficient search and update: As XLIFF files grow (exceeding 500 lines), locating and updating specific text can be difficult. XLIFF editing tools feature user-friendly interfaces that simplify the process of searching and updating needed texts and speed up the whole process.

• Syntax check for placeholders: Tools for editing XLIFF files also conduct syntax checks on placeholders used in localization messages, which significantly reduces the chance of errors.

• Additional translation features: XLIFF editing tools are packed with an array of extra features to facilitate translation. These include Machine Translation, Translation Memory, Glossary, Screenshots, and team collaboration features, among others.

Editing XLIFF files with Localizely 

Here, we'll show you a simple process for editing your XLIFF files using Localizely. By doing so, you can fully utilize all the advantages we've mentioned above.

Create account 

Getting started with Localizely is easy. The first thing you need to do to start using Localizely is create an account. This step is easy and only requires you to enter some basic information.

Create new project 

The next step is to create a new project, determining the main language and any other languages you plan to use. This step is quick and straightforward, needing to be performed just once in the beginning and requiring only a few seconds.

Upload XLIFF file for translation 

Once you have created an account and project, you can begin working on XLIFF files. To do so, drop your XLIFF file on the Upload page and hit the upload button.

Translate XLIFF file 

Navigate to the Translations page and start editing your XLIFF file. Feel free to edit your translations in the way that suits you best: do it manually, leverage Machine Translation, or pass the job to other members of your team or to professional translators.

Furthermore, you can easily access and modify additional data stored in your XLIFF files. This includes information such as descriptions, the string key's location within a source code file, and other similar things.

Download translated XLIFF files 

After you've completed your edits, navigate to the Download page. From there, you can retrieve your XLIFF files with just one click.

Final thoughts 

This post sheds light on why using an XLIFF editing tool like Localizely can revolutionize your editing process. We've addressed important aspects to consider between manual editing and using specific tools. Also, we've demonstrated the simplicity of editing your XLIFF files with Localizely, along with the benefits you stand to gain.

Localizely serves as a user-friendly platform that simplifies the translation of XLIFF files, packed with a wide range of helpful features to optimize your software localization tasks. The best part? It offers a free plan (no credit card required) that is enough for smaller projects, and it's totally free for open-source projects.