Quick Answer
A Translation Management System (TMS) is software that stops you from going insane managing JSON files in a spreadsheet.
More formally: it's a platform that centralizes all your translations, lets developers and translators work together without stepping on each other's toes, and automates the tedious parts of localization.
If you've ever emailed a translator a spreadsheet, waited three days, received a file with broken JSON syntax, fixed it, realized they missed half the new strings, and then repeated the whole process... you need a TMS.
The Slightly More Official Definition
Translation Management System (TMS): Software that streamlines translating digital content (apps, websites, docs) into multiple languages. Good ones include translation memory, glossaries, workflow automation, and integrations with tools you actually use (GitHub, CI/CD, etc.).
What Does a TMS Actually Do?
A translation management system performs these core functions:
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Centralize Translations | Store all translation keys and values in one database |
| Enable Collaboration | Allow translators, reviewers, and developers to work together |
| Automate Workflows | Trigger translations when source content changes |
| Maintain Consistency | Use translation memory and glossaries to ensure consistent terminology |
| Integrate with Dev Tools | Connect with GitHub, GitLab, CI/CD pipelines |
| Track Progress | Monitor translation completion across languages |
Key Features of a TMS
1. Translation Memory (TM)
Translation memory stores previously translated segments for reuse. When a similar or identical string appears again, the TM suggests the existing translation.
Benefits:
- Reduces translation costs by 30-60%
- Ensures consistency across projects
- Speeds up translation process
2. Terminology Management (Glossary)
A glossary defines how specific terms should be translated in each language.
Example:
| English | Spanish | German | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | Panel | Dashboard | Main UI |
| Submit | Enviar | Absenden | Button text |
3. Workflow Automation
Automated workflows handle:
- Notifying translators when new content is added
- Routing translations for review
- Publishing approved translations
4. File Format Support
Modern TMS platforms support:
- JSON (React, Vue, Angular)
- YAML (Rails, Python)
- Android XML (strings.xml)
- iOS Strings (.strings, .stringsdict)
- XLIFF, PO, CSV, and more
5. API & CLI Integration
Developer-focused TMS platforms provide:
- REST APIs for custom integrations
- CLI tools for pushing/pulling translations
- GitHub/GitLab webhooks for automation
6. Machine Translation Integration
Most TMS platforms integrate with machine translation services:
- Google Translate
- DeepL
- Amazon Translate
- AI models (GPT-4, Claude)
Who Uses a TMS?
| Role | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Software Developers | Manage app localization, sync translations with code |
| Product Managers | Track localization progress, prioritize languages |
| Translators | Translate content with context and TM assistance |
| Localization Managers | Coordinate translation workflows across teams |
| Marketing Teams | Localize websites and campaigns |
TMS vs. Other Solutions
TMS vs. Spreadsheets
| Aspect | TMS | Spreadsheets |
|---|---|---|
| Collaboration | Real-time, role-based | Manual sharing |
| Version Control | Built-in | Manual |
| Translation Memory | Automatic | None |
| Developer Integration | APIs, CLI, webhooks | Export/import |
| Scale | Unlimited | Gets unwieldy |
Verdict: Spreadsheets work for <100 strings. Beyond that, use a TMS.
TMS vs. CAT Tools
CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools like SDL Trados or MemoQ are designed for professional translators. TMS platforms are designed for software teams.
| Aspect | TMS | CAT Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Primary User | Developers | Translators |
| Focus | Software localization | Document translation |
| Integration | Git, CI/CD | File-based |
| Pricing | Per project/strings | Per translator seat |
TMS vs. DIY (JSON Files)
Managing translations yourself with JSON files:
| Aspect | TMS | DIY JSON |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | Minutes | None |
| Ongoing Effort | Low | High |
| Collaboration | Built-in | Manual |
| Costs | $10-100+/mo | Free (but time cost) |
| Scale | Easy | Difficult |
Popular Translation Management Systems
1. IntlPull
Best for: Developer teams, mobile apps
Unique features:
- OTA (Over-the-Air) updates for mobile
- CLI that transforms code automatically
- Multi-provider AI translation
Pricing: Free tier, then $12-399/month
2. Lokalise
Best for: Teams with existing Lokalise workflows
Features: Visual editor, Figma plugin, branching
Pricing: ~$90+/month
3. Crowdin
Best for: Open-source projects
Features: Community translation, marketplace
Pricing: Free for OSS, $40/user for teams
4. Phrase
Best for: Large enterprises
Features: Advanced CAT integration, complex workflows
Pricing: $125+/month
How to Choose a TMS
Consider These Factors:
- Team Size: Per-user pricing vs. flat pricing
- Scale: Number of strings and languages
- Platform: Web only or mobile apps too
- Workflow: Developer-led or localization team-led
- Budget: Free tiers, monthly costs
- Features: OTA updates, AI translation, CLI tools
Decision Matrix
| If You Need... | Choose... |
|---|---|
| OTA mobile updates | IntlPull |
| Open-source project | Crowdin |
| Enterprise workflows | Phrase |
| Budget-friendly option | IntlPull |
| Community translation | Crowdin |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does TMS stand for?
TMS stands for Translation Management System. It's software that helps manage the localization of digital content across multiple languages.
Is a TMS the same as Google Translate?
No. Google Translate is a machine translation service that converts text between languages. A TMS is a management platform that organizes translations, enables collaboration, and may use Google Translate as one of many translation options.
How much does a TMS cost?
TMS pricing varies widely:
- Free tiers: Available from IntlPull, Crowdin (OSS)
- Entry level: $10-50/month
- Mid-tier: $50-200/month
- Enterprise: $500-5000+/month
Do I need a TMS for a small project?
For projects with <100 translatable strings, you might manage with JSON files. Beyond that, a TMS saves significant time and reduces errors.
Can a TMS translate automatically?
Yes. Most TMS platforms integrate machine translation (Google, DeepL) or AI translation (GPT-4, Claude). However, machine translations typically need human review for quality.
What's the difference between i18n and l10n?
- i18n (Internationalization): Preparing your code to support multiple languages
- l10n (Localization): Actually translating content for specific markets
A TMS primarily helps with l10n, though some (like IntlPull) also help with i18n through code transformation tools.
Summary
A Translation Management System (TMS) is essential software for any team localizing their applications. It centralizes translations, enables collaboration, automates workflows, and integrates with development tools.
Key takeaways:
- TMS centralizes all translations in one place
- Features include translation memory, glossaries, and automation
- Choose based on team size, platform needs, and budget
- For mobile apps needing OTA updates, IntlPull is the only option
- For open-source, Crowdin offers free tiers
- For enterprise complexity, consider Phrase
Ready to try a TMS? Start free with IntlPull - no credit card required.
