Why Time Zones Are a Hidden Challenge in Translation Projects
Ever had to wait hours (or days) to get a response from a translator? It’s not because they’re slow—it’s probably the time zone difference. When it comes to global translation projects, timing isn’t just a logistics issue—it’s a strategic consideration that directly affects speed, consistency, and collaboration.
First, coordinating across multiple time zones means translation workflows can stall while waiting for feedback or approvals. If your agency is asleep while your team is working, project timelines can stretch unnecessarily. That’s why using global teams—or agencies with around-the-clock operations—makes a big difference.
Second, time zones impact live collaboration. Whether it’s reviewing live edits, syncing on terminology choices, or handling urgent updates, being on (or near) the same schedule improves efficiency. For projects like website launches or product updates, real-time responsiveness is often critical.
Third, planning multilingual marketing campaigns also requires time zone awareness. A single campaign may need to go live at the same hour in several countries, which means translation deadlines must be carefully coordinated to avoid last-minute panic.
At our EU-based localisation company, we use project management tools and global teams to stay responsive across time zones. We don’t just speak your language—we keep your pace.
