Great e-learning is like a great Netflix show – if it doesn’t grab you from the start, you switch it off. It’s the same with training: if the content is dull, confusing, or feels unnatural, learners will just click through without absorbing anything.
More and more companies are expanding their training programs into international markets. Often, the rollout happens fast: “We’ve got a great course, we translated it, but something’s not working.” We review the content – and it’s immediately clear why.
Common Pitfalls in E-learning Localisation
- Word-for-word translations
Example: “Zróbmy to po bożemu” becomes “Let’s do it by the God’s way.” A literal translation that makes no sense in English. - Idioms that don’t translate
Quizzes filled with phrases that are either culturally unfamiliar or have different meanings in other languages. - Robotic voiceovers
Audio that sounds like a 2015-era text-to-speech engine – flat, emotionless, and poorly intonated. - Language that sounds off
Technically correct, but still feels like a translation. If it “smells” like the source language, it won’t resonate with the audience.
The Result?
Instead of effective learning, you end up with content that feels like a box-ticking exercise – and leaves little lasting impact.
What Makes E-learning Work in Foreign Markets?
- Adaptation over translation
E-learning isn’t a user manual. Don’t just translate word for word – adapt the message to fit the target culture. That might mean changing an example, rewriting an exercise, or rethinking a reference entirely. - A voice that feels human
Learners need to feel like they’re being spoken to by a real person – not a robot. Invest in native-speaking voice talent with e-learning experience. - Learner-first design
Your learner isn’t a translator. If they have to stop and decode the message, the content has failed. Clear, accessible, and culturally intuitive content is key. - Real-world testing
Pilot your localised course with real users from the target market. Their feedback is the fastest way to spot what’s not working – and fix it.
Why It Matters
E-learning often supports critical business goals: entering new markets, onboarding teams, launching new products, processes or tools. If learners don’t understand the training, they can’t apply what they’ve learned. That means wasted time, effort, and money.
To be effective, e-learning must be:
- Easy to understand without extra explanation
- Culturally aligned
- Engaging
Key considerations before publishing e-learning content in a new country:
- Does the content sound natural in the target language?
If it reads like a translation, it needs work. - Are the examples and exercises clear and relevant?
Names, idioms, and scenarios should feel familiar to local audiences. - Does the voiceover sound professional and human?
Even the best script loses value if delivered poorly. - Is the course concise and dynamic?
Engaging e-learning is short, focused, and punchy. - Can learners focus on the message – or are they just trying to figure out what’s going on?
A clear structure, plain language, and intuitive navigation are essential.
E-learning can be a powerful tool for global team development – but only if it’s done right. Language accuracy alone isn’t enough. True localisation requires thoughtful adaptation that considers language, culture, and the end user.
If you’re planning to localise your training – start with a simple question:
Does this still sound like our company?
