Internationalization of Animations

We have developed several guidlines for graphic and character
representations in our Flash animantions (which have educational
content). For example, if we depict foreign individuals, we will only do
so if the rendering and the voice-over is authentic. We have decided
that a badly done graphic or foreign accent is worse than having none at
all. But I still have questions and would appreciate any feedback or
resources on the subject.

What should be the major considerations in globalization of voice and
character?
What is potentially offensive to any particular country or culture?
(e.g. is a particular color really going to offend a significant number
of our target audience, who are "educated" people.)
Do we avoid all American idioms and gestures?
What is the correct way to depict relationships between boss/employee,
teacher/student, etc.?
Are there technical issues in foreign countries that affect the
rendering of flash and graphics?
If we try to adapt to everyone and offend no one, do we run the risk of
blandness?

Thank you in advance for any help on this matter
--
Kevin Q. Harvey
User Experience Group
UNext.com

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Received on Saturday, 16 December 2000 12:22:50 UTC