Let's explore how to use the WPML (WordPress Multilingual Plugin) to build a multilingual site!
Installation and Basic Setup
First of all, since the WPML plugin is available for purchase, you can download the ZIP file from the official website, upload and install it from the 'Plugins > Add New' section of your WordPress admin page. Once activated, the setup wizard will automatically launch to guide you through the setup process easily.
Adding and Configuring Languages
Through the setup wizard, you can select the default language and additional languages you want to add. Each language is displayed in an alphabetical order language selection menu at the top or bottom of the website, making them easy to find. Multilingual support considering diverse user bases is now essential!
Translating Content
With WPML, you can translate pages, posts, menus, and more into various languages. Select the content you want to translate and add translations for each language. WPML provides a translation management tool to facilitate seamless translation work. Specifically, you can translate various elements such as titles, main content, custom fields, taxonomies, SEO meta, URLs, etc., transforming your site into a complete multilingual experience.
Translation Management
Utilize WPML's translation management features to translate content automatically or manually. You can also integrate with professional translation services for higher quality translations.
- Automatic Translation offers fast and accurate translations through free credits.
- Manual Translation using the WPML Advanced Translation Editor allows detailed adjustments to content.
- Integration with Professional Translation Services enables efficient, high-quality translations.
Translating Site Structure
Translation of structural elements like headers, menus, sidebars, and footers on a WordPress site is also possible. You can translate text within these elements using the string translation feature, but make sure the content displayed in the menu is translated before translating the menus themselves. Then, navigate to WPML → WP Menu Sync to easily translate menus.
Menu and Widget Configuration
You can configure and translate custom menus for each language. From 'Appearance > Menus,' you can conveniently edit menus per language. Additionally, you can add a language switcher to a widget so users can switch to their preferred language.
SEO Optimization
WPML supports SEO optimization for multilingual sites through compatibility with the Yoast SEO plugin. This allows individual settings for meta tags, titles, and descriptions for each language, benefiting search engine optimization.
Customization
With WPML, you can choose the structure of translated URLs and translate custom post types, categories, tags, and taxonomies. It provides options to translate the entire WordPress taxonomy, making your site more globally dynamic.
WPML is highly efficient for converting and managing WordPress sites in multiple languages, providing significant advantages for WooCommerce and other e-commerce operations. Build a website suitable for various languages and cultures to appeal to a global audience!
