Frequently asked questions and answers about website creation and maintenance in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages, as well as DTP services.

Below are frequently asked questions and answers from customers regarding English website creation and multilingual DTP.

Contents

1. English and Multilingual Website Development
2. Design and DTP
3. Translation/Production
4. Pricing
5. Miscellaneous

English and Multilingual Website Development

I want to create a multilingual site. Is it okay to use machine or AI-generated translations as they are?

Most multilingual websites created using machine or AI translation without human editing still contain incorrect information. Unfortunately, this is common even on websites of large companies, universities, research institutions, local governments, and official organizations. Since this can cause serious issues not only for users but also for all involved parties, we strongly recommend that professional bilingual or native checkers review and correct such content. We offer multilingual website evaluations, so feel free to take advantage of this service.

I want to increase overseas inquiries with a multilingual site. Will inquiries increase right after launch?

Simply publishing a multilingual website doesn’t automatically generate user inquiries or business leads. You'll need to consider various strategies, such as increasing opportunities for users to encounter your site and making it appealing and trustworthy to prevent user drop-off. We support increasing inquiries by continuously conducting competitor research, SEO optimization, and updating content.

I want to create a multilingual website but don’t know the budget required. Can you give me a rough estimate?

For corporate websites, a small site (up to 10 pages) costs around ¥300,000–¥500,000; medium-sized sites (under 50 pages) range from ¥1,000,000 to ¥3,000,000; and large-scale sites (for large enterprises, e-commerce, or community sites) range from ¥3,000,000 to ¥15,000,000. Additional costs may include application development, SEO services, maintenance, and support depending on the requirements.

How long does it usually take to create a multilingual website?

It depends on the scale. For a landing page, it typically takes about 1.5 to 2 months. For corporate or product/service introduction sites with 10–20 pages, it takes about 2 to 4 months. (These are general timelines post-order and may vary depending on requirements and design work.) We provide a basic schedule estimate at the time of quoting.

Are operation and maintenance fees required after launching a multilingual site?

Since such websites must provide up-to-date information to overseas audiences, we recommend scheduled updates and maintenance (e.g., weekly or monthly) based on the website’s operational purpose. In particular, news pages should be regularly updated to avoid the impression that the site is inactive. We advise planning your update schedule and staffing during the development phase.

After launching a multilingual site, how long can I go without updating it?

Some companies may not need frequent updates if their basic information remains unchanged. However, for marketing purposes, updating news or product/service info can improve search rankings. For branding sites, periodic updates are recommended to prevent the design and structure from becoming outdated. We provide tailored suggestions based on your website’s purpose.

What CMS platforms do you support? Can you create a multilingual version using a CMS built by another company?

We support WordPress, as well as CMS platforms commonly used in Japan, such as Movable Type and PowerCMS X. After review of the specifications, we may be able to support other CMS platforms.

Design and DTP

Can you handle printing and bookbinding?

Yes, we handle everything from simple binding to hardcover bookbinding. We work with partner companies to manage the entire process seamlessly, without burdening the client.

How many days are needed to produce a printed catalog?

It varies depending on the request, work content, delivery format, and source material. For an 8-page brochure, it typically takes 1 to 3 months. We propose a schedule based on the number of client review rounds, from planning and translation to copy adjustment, design, and final layout.

I only have a PDF. Can I still request production without the original design files?

Please consult with us. We can handle layout creation using tools like Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign for print production, as well as layout adjustments for urgent presentation materials like PowerPoint.

Translation/Production

Can you create a foreign-language website based on an existing English one?

Yes, Brainwoods can create a foreign-language website using an existing design. We also offer suggestions for website renewal.

Can you handle everything, including web server selection and contracting?

Yes, we can manage the entire production process, including reviewing domestic server specifications.

Can you handle multilingual production?

Yes. We produce websites and DTP materials in English, Chinese, Korean, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, etc., mainly from Japanese or English. A native speaker is always involved in the translation or proofreading process. We also offer flexible options, such as creating a product in one base language with multiple target languages. Please inquire about other supported languages.

Who handles the translation and design?

Native or bilingual translators with expertise in relevant fields handle translation. Design is done by specialized designers experienced in handling foreign-language materials.

Are there any limitations on the delivery format?

Generally, no. We deliver according to your request, whether in print, data, video, or web format. For websites, we can upload to your specified server or build a CMS.

What source files and software do you support?

We support a wide range of file types, including text files, Microsoft Word/Excel/PowerPoint, HTML, PDF, and Adobe Illustrator/InDesign/Photoshop.

What is localization?

Localization is the process of translating and designing content prepared in one language for optimal use in another language and region. This goes beyond simple translation and involves understanding your intent and background to maximize effectiveness in the target locale.

Pricing

How do you determine pricing? Why are there differences in unit prices?

At Brainwoods, pricing is determined based on various factors such as material type, field, deadline, required expertise, and intended use. Prices may vary to meet individual project needs.

What if my budget is limited?

If only minimal processing is needed (e.g., for internal documents), we can provide a separate quote. Please contact us for consultation.

Do you offer discounts for ongoing or high-volume projects?

Yes, we offer volume discounts. Our sales representative will consult with you in detail and provide a tailored quote.

How long does it take to get a quote?

During business hours, we can usually provide a quote within a day or two. If the source material is unclear or complex tasks are required, it may take longer.

I’d like a quote. What should I do?

Please contact us via form or email. Based on the information you provide, we will offer a rough estimate. For a detailed quote, please contact us by phone or email, and submit your source materials to our team. Once we review the content, delivery date, and specifications, we will send a formal quote.

Miscellaneous

What languages do you support?

We support English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and more. We handle not only Japanese-to-foreign language projects but also English-to-other-language production.

I'm concerned about confidentiality.

All our team members sign confidentiality agreements in advance, so you can use our services with peace of mind. We can also password-protect data files or enter into confidentiality agreements with clients if needed. Please consult your representative.

Can individuals place orders?

We provide services to corporate clients only, such as private companies and public institutions.

I want to hand over important data directly...

If you're in the Tokyo metropolitan area, our staff can visit you to pick up the data. Please feel free to consult with your representative.