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Effective Practices for User-Centered Instant Localization of a Screen Reader Software

Zsuzsanna B. Palmer

IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication2026https://doi.org/10.1109/tpc.2026.3658116article
ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Introduction: This case study's purpose is to make visible the skills and knowledge necessary for the instant localization of screen readers. About the case: The case study examines the work of localization experts at a nonprofit organization in Hungary, who localize the proprietary Job Access with Speech (JAWS) screen reader software and support its target users. Situating the case: The study was informed by research in translation studies and localization-focused literature within the field of technical and professional communication. Research on accessible usability and software design was also consulted. Methods/approach: Participant observations and interviews with employees of the nonprofit organization and with the software's users were conducted. Data were transcribed, then coded using qualitative data-analysis methods. Codes that emerged from the data were grouped into themes to create a narrative interwoven with quotes about the activities of localization experts. Results/discussion: The findings from this study show that the instant localization process used by localization experts of this software requires a specific set of skills in addition to those used in project-based approaches to localization. Additional language and communication skills, as well as programming knowledge to develop additional program features and training materials, were found to be essential for addressing all users’ needs. Conclusion: Technical and professional communication practitioners can contribute to the localization of adaptive technologies through their strong usability, user experience, and communication skills.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1109/tpc.2026.3658116

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@article{zsuzsanna2026,
  title        = {{Effective Practices for User-Centered Instant Localization of a Screen Reader Software}},
  author       = {Zsuzsanna B. Palmer},
  journal      = {IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1109/tpc.2026.3658116},
}

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Effective Practices for User-Centered Instant Localization of a Screen Reader Software

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.