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Internationalization? Localization? Arg!

The Internet is a large and growing network of computers from all over the world. The Internet provides an unprecedented ability to communicate instantly (well, as instantly as is possible with a PC, a 14.4 modem, and a woefully overloaded Internet) with people from around the globe at any time. With this ability comes certain responsibilities, such as enabling people to use software in their natural language and according to their customs.

What is a Global Program?

A global program is a program that tailors the presentation of information to the user according to the user's preferred language and customs.

Common Problems with Global Programs

Understanding what global programs are and why we need them is no problem. However, writing them can be. This page takes a look at the sorts of problems a programmer may encounter when internationalizing a program.

The Global Features of the JDK

Never fear! The JDK 1.1 is here! The 1.1 release of the JDK has several new features to help you overcome the problems described in the previous section (and others) and write truly global programs.


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