Automated Translation vs Crowdsourced Translation

Developers should learn and use automated translation when building applications that require multilingual support, such as global websites, e-commerce platforms, or customer service chatbots, to enhance accessibility and user engagement meets developers should learn or use crowdsourced translation when working on projects that need to be localized for multiple languages quickly, affordably, or with community involvement, such as open-source software, educational resources, or user-generated platforms. Here's our take.

Automated Translation

Nice Pick

Developers should learn and use automated translation when building applications that require multilingual support, such as global websites, e-commerce platforms, or customer service chatbots, to enhance accessibility and user engagement

Pros

• It is also valuable for processing large volumes of content efficiently, like translating documents or social media posts, and for integrating real-time translation features in communication tools or mobile apps to break language barriers
• Related to: natural-language-processing, machine-learning

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Crowdsourced Translation

Developers should learn or use crowdsourced translation when working on projects that need to be localized for multiple languages quickly, affordably, or with community involvement, such as open-source software, educational resources, or user-generated platforms

Pros

• It is particularly valuable for startups, non-profits, or global teams aiming to reach diverse audiences without extensive budgets, as it can accelerate internationalization and foster user engagement through participatory contributions
• Related to: localization, internationalization

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Automated Translation is a tool while Crowdsourced Translation is a methodology. We picked Automated Translation based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Automated Translation wins

Based on overall popularity. Automated Translation is more widely used, but Crowdsourced Translation excels in its own space.