Localization Techniques in Microsoft.NET Using Multiple and Shared Sources
Bill Hall, Globalization Consultant, MLM Associates, Inc., USA

Intended Audience: Software Engineers, Managers, Designers, Quality Assurance

Session Level: Beginner

The localization model in Microsoft .NET differs significantly from the older Windows model. At first glance, .NET localization seems to be very similar to Java, especially if the only experience has been with .NET's file-based (loose) resources. Indeed, you may come away with the idea that you only have to replace underscores with dashed in file names and you are practically done. In fact, .NET localization has a number of unique features that can add versatility to your application, whether it be console, form, or web based. In this talk, we show how to use single and multiple resource source files, how to share resources across multiple languages, and techniques to make fast initial loads. We also explain the resource directory structure, required naming conventions, and resource access methods. Illustrations come from console programs, Windows, and web forms. For the latter, we also demonstrate using resources and inner html to modify the contents within the opening and closing tags of HTML server controls.

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