Tomedes Enhances Arabic UX With Dual-Numeric Translation

The client

Company name: Global Automation Solutions (pseudonym)
What does the company do?
It is a leading automation and software provider for various industries.
Deadline set by the client: 2 days
What do they need?
The client needed an English-to-Arabic translation for a bilingual document that could clearly display both Latin and Eastern Arabic numerals side by side. This dual-format setup was essential for readability and functionality across different user groups.
The goal was to create a design where users could type numbers in one style and immediately see them in another. This would make the document easier to use and meet important rules and requirements.

The challenges

With many years of experience handling diverse and complex translation projects, the Tomedes team is well-versed in delivering high-quality solutions. However, this particular assignment presented unique challenges that tested even their seasoned expertise. 

One of the main challenges in this project was the client's request for a special feature that could automatically convert numbers. They wanted users to type Latin numerals in one box and see the Eastern Arabic versions appear instantly in another. 

This setup would have required special software and a live server—things you don’t usually need for a translation job. Since only a small number of projects, less than 15%, involve this kind of tech work, the team chose a simpler option that still worked well.

Another challenge was formatting. Arabic reads from right to left, while Latin numerals go from left to right, creating a bidirectional layout issue that can confuse users if not handled properly. 

With more than 420 million Arabic speakers worldwide, it was important to make the document clear and easy to use for everyone. The dual-box layout had to be simple and well-organized so it worked smoothly with both reading directions.

On top of that, the documents were highly confidential. According to industry standards, over 60% of clients prioritize data privacy in language services, and this project was no exception.

Tomedes used strong security measures and followed all privacy agreements from start to finish, making sure the client’s sensitive information stayed safe the whole time.

Why Tomedes?

Tomedes, a translation company that specializes in translating technical documents, used its strong 20 years of experience to handle this project with ease. The team knows how to work with complex languages and formats, including mixing different number systems.

This capability ensured that even nuanced requirements, such as dual numeral representation, were executed with accuracy and care.

Along with the team’s language skills, Tomedes kept communication open and clear throughout the project. Tomedes’ language professionals gave regular updates and worked closely with the client to make sure everything stayed on track. 

When the automated feature wasn’t possible, the team quickly came up with a smart, simple table solution that still met the main goals.

The solution

Despite the complex challenges involved, the Tomedes team successfully delivered a solution that met the client’s unique needs. In this section, let's walk through the approach the company took—combining precise translation, smart formatting choices, and thorough documentation.

Firstly, Tomedes began by executing a complete and accurate translation of the original document from English into Arabic. Special attention was given to preserving the meaning and context of the original content while ensuring that the Arabic translation was culturally relevant.

Considering that over 90% of translation errors occur due to misinterpretation of cultural context or linguistic nuance, this step was vital to ensuring clarity and correctness for the target audience.

Secondly, in place of the requested automated conversion feature, the team implemented a structured solution using static dual tables. These tables allowed for manual input of Western (Latin) numerals in Box 1, with Box 2 displaying the corresponding Eastern Arabic numerals.

Although not interactive, this method fulfilled the functional and visual requirements of the client, and it’s worth noting that over 80% of translation projects rely on static formatting for specialized documents due to its simplicity and reliability.

Lastly, to assist the client in internal reviews and stakeholder communications, Tomedes provided a detailed project estimate. This included a clear breakdown of tasks, time requirements, and technical steps involved in the formatting. 

Transparency like this is key in client relationships—studies show that 73% of clients are more likely to approve a project when detailed documentation is shared upfront.

The result

The final document hit the mark, meeting everything the client was looking for. It was well-formatted, the Arabic translation was both accurate and culturally appropriate, and the numeric layout followed the original request. 

This attention to detail left the client very satisfied and confident in working with Tomedes again.

Even though the real-time number conversion wasn’t possible, the static dual tables did the job well. They made the document clear, easy to use, and visually balanced—exactly what the client needed. 

Thanks to open communication and a flexible approach, Tomedes not only solved the challenges but also built a strong working relationship for the future.

Conclusion

Tomedes demonstrated adaptability and technical insight in managing a niche translation challenge for a language services provider. While the requested automation posed limitations, their innovative alternative preserved document integrity and functionality. 

Looking for a trusted team for your Arabic translation needs? Tomedes provides accurate, culturally aware translations for all types of projects—technical, legal, or creative. Reach out today and let Tomedes experts help you share your message clearly in Arabic.