In today’s globalized world, design teams often collaborate across different countries and languages. Figma, one of the most popular design tools, enables real-time collaboration, making it essential to bridge language gaps effectively. However, designers frequently face challenges when working with teammates, clients, or stakeholders who speak different languages.
This is where Figma translation becomes a crucial aspect of smooth communication and workflow. By using various translation tools and strategies within Figma, teams can ensure their designs are accessible, understandable, and relevant to diverse audiences.
In this article, we’ll explore the importance of translation in Figma, available tools, and practical tips to enhance cross-language collaboration.
Why Is Figma Translation Important?
Figma translation plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth collaboration among international design teams. When designers, developers, and stakeholders speak different languages, misunderstandings can lead to costly mistakes and delays in project timelines. Proper translation allows teams to work efficiently, ensuring that design elements, instructions, and feedback are clearly understood by all members. Additionally, localized designs help businesses expand into new markets by adapting content to the cultural and linguistic preferences of their target audience. Without proper translation, a design that works well in one language may become confusing or ineffective in another. Moreover, accurate translations enhance user experience by making interfaces, labels, and instructions clear and accessible for a diverse audience. Ultimately, integrating Figma translation into the workflow improves communication, enhances product usability, and increases the success of global design projects.
How to Translate Content in Figma
There are several ways to manage Figma translation, ranging from manual methods to automated tools.
1. Manual Translation
- Copy the text from Figma and use external translation tools like Google Translate or DeepL.
- Paste the translated text back into Figma.
- Adjust design elements to fit the translated text (e.g., different word lengths in various languages).
2. Using Figma Plugins for Translation
Several plugins can automate and streamline the translation process:
- “Figma to Google Translate” Plugin – Exports text from Figma, translates it using Google Translate, and re-imports it.
- “Strings Translate” – Helps manage multilingual design versions within Figma.
- “TranslateMe” – Enables real-time translation inside Figma without switching apps.
3. API-Based Translation Integration
For large-scale projects, teams can integrate translation APIs like Google Cloud Translation or Microsoft Translator with Figma. This allows seamless text translation directly within the design workflow.
Best Practices for Effective Figma Translation
1. Design with Localization in Mind
When designing for multiple languages, it’s important to avoid fixed text containers because different languages vary in word length. For example, German text is often longer than English, while Chinese characters take up less space but may require different formatting. Using flexible layouts and auto-sizing text boxes helps accommodate these differences without breaking the design. Additionally, writing in clear and concise language minimizes potential translation errors and ensures the message remains the same across all versions. Complex phrases or idioms may not have direct translations, leading to confusion or unintended meanings. Moreover, cultural nuances should always be considered—symbols, colors, and design elements may have different connotations in different regions. By planning for localization from the beginning, designers can create a seamless experience for all users, regardless of their language or culture.
2. Maintain a Glossary for Consistency
A well-organized glossary helps maintain consistency across all translated content by defining key terms, product-specific phrases, and brand language. This shared document ensures that translators, designers, and developers use the same terminology across different languages, reducing inconsistencies in user interface text. It’s essential to include approved translations for commonly used words and phrases to maintain a uniform brand voice across multiple markets. Additionally, having a glossary prevents misinterpretations and ensures that the meaning remains intact, especially for industry-specific or technical terms. Teams can store this glossary in a shared document or integrate it into a translation management system for easy access. Regular updates should be made as new terms are introduced or product terminology evolves. By implementing a structured glossary, teams can significantly improve the quality and accuracy of translations within Figma.
3. Automate Where Possible
Automating the translation process helps save time and reduces the risk of human error, especially for large-scale projects with frequent content updates. Figma plugins like “Figma to Google Translate” or “TranslateMe” allow designers to translate text directly within the platform, eliminating the need for manual copying and pasting. These tools streamline the workflow by automatically replacing the original text with translated content while preserving formatting. For even more efficiency, teams working on multilingual projects can integrate translation APIs like Google Cloud Translation or DeepL. These API solutions provide real-time translations, ensuring that new updates or design changes are immediately available in all required languages. By leveraging automation, design teams can focus on creativity and user experience rather than repetitive translation tasks.
4. Test Translated Designs
Once translations are implemented, it’s crucial to test them with native speakers to ensure clarity, accuracy, and cultural relevance. Native speakers can identify errors, unnatural phrasing, or inappropriate cultural references that automated tools might miss. This step is especially important for UI elements like buttons, error messages, and navigation menus, where clarity is essential for usability. Additionally, conducting usability tests with target audiences helps determine whether the translated content is easy to understand and fits naturally within the design. Testing also reveals potential issues such as text overflow, misalignment, or inconsistent formatting that could negatively impact user experience. By gathering feedback and making necessary adjustments, teams can ensure their translated designs are polished and effective in every language.
Figma translation, like https://store.crowdin.com, is a powerful tool that helps design teams collaborate more effectively, create localized content, and improve user experience across different languages. Whether using manual translation, plugins, or automation, integrating translation into your design workflow ensures clarity and inclusivity.
By following best practices, teams can overcome language barriers and build globally successful products.