An approach to internationalization where one language (usually English) is the foundation for all translations and localized content.
Default Language-Based Internationalization is the most common approach used by development teams when building software for global markets. Usually developers write the application using one primary language for all text strings, user interface elements, and content, and this becomes the foundation on which everything else is built upon.
In localization, this approach means all translated content stems from the default language version.
While this method is straightforward and cost-effective for development, it can create challenges when the default language doesn’t translate well into other languages or cultures.
For example, if English is the default language, short button labels might work perfectly, but German translations could be much longer and break the layout. The approach also assumes that the default language structure and flow make sense for all target markets, which isn’t always true.
This works well for many projects, especially when the default language is widely understood or when the target markets have similar cultural contexts. However, teams need to be aware of its limitations and plan accordingly. Sometimes, the most efficient development approach isn’t the most effective localization approach, and finding the right balance depends on the specific project requirements and target markets.