memoQ talks

Hosts: Balázs Kis and Mark Shriner

On memoQ talks we talk with localization industry leaders about best practices and important lessons learned related to all areas of localization including leadership, technology, security, data protection, vendor management, operations, quality assurance, business development, sales, marketing, human resources and more! Join us as we talk to and learn from our colleagues and peers in the localization industry. 

  1. 2D AGO

    MCP and Beyond: How AI Will Reshape Work with Andre Hemker

    In this episode of memoQ talks, host Mark Shriner sits down with Andre Hemker to explore Model Context Protocol (MCP), a revolutionary standard that enables AI tools to communicate and interact with various software platforms seamlessly. Hemker explains that MCP acts as a transformative layer between current AI technologies and human tools, allowing artificial intelligence to understand and autonomously execute complex tasks across different systems, much like the computer in Star Trek that could instantly perform intricate operations. The conversation delves into the potential implications of MCP across industries, highlighting how it could fundamentally reshape roles in sales, marketing, and technology. Hemker suggests that MCP will drive significant changes, compelling software developers to make their tools AI-compatible or risk becoming obsolete. The protocol promises to enable AI to search for, evaluate, and interact with tools independently, potentially reducing the need for human intermediaries in processes like software selection and task execution. Alongside discussing MCP, Hemker shares his personal journey of transitioning from the software industry to founding Ride Portugal, an adventure motorcycle tour business in the Algarve region. This career pivot reflects his belief in adapting to technological changes and finding fulfillment outside traditional corporate structures. The episode concludes with a broader reflection on the evolving relationship between humans and AI, emphasizing the importance of embracing technological advancements while finding unique ways to add value in an increasingly automated world. Let's Ride Portugal https://letsrideportugal.com/

    39 min
  2. MAY 14

    Leonid Glazychev, Founder and CEO of Logrus IT on Using Custom Metrics to Improve Localization Project Outcomes

    In this episode of MemoQ Talks, host Mark Shriner sits down with Leonid Glazychev, Founder and CEO of Logrus IT.  The conversation delves deep into the critical topic of metrics in localization projects, with Glazychev challenging traditional approaches and advocating for customized, multi-dimensional evaluation methods. He emphasizes that there's no universal metric for success, and instead, companies should focus on understanding their specific needs, target audience, and the nuanced aspects of content quality such as accuracy, readability, and comprehensibility. The discussion explores how human evaluation plays a crucial role in assessing translation quality, particularly for complex content like game localization or technical documentation. Throughout the podcast, Glazychev and Shriner explore broader themes of continuous learning, technological adaptation, and the importance of curiosity in professional development. They discuss personal strategies for staying informed, the evolving landscape of technology, and touch on emerging areas like AI's impact on localization. The conversation is rich with insights, ranging from practical advice on selecting technology and measuring project success to philosophical reflections on maintaining intellectual curiosity and adaptability in a rapidly changing professional landscape. Logrus IT https://www.logrusit.com/en

    55 min
  3. MAR 31

    How Technological Disruption is Reshaping Traditional Localization Roles

    In this engaging episode of MemoQ Talks, host Mark Shriner brings together three seasoned localization experts with a combined experience of nearly 90 years in the industry: Alfredo de Almeida, who recently retired after 30 years in localization roles at Microsoft, Agustin Da Fieno Delucchi, Director of Globalization AI & Data Science at Microsoft, and Jorge Russos dos Santos, Instructor at the University of Washington. These long-time colleagues and friends, who first met in 1998 while working at Microsoft, share a deep understanding of the localization landscape and its technological evolution. The podcast focuses on a critical and timely topic: the impact of emerging technologies, particularly AI and large language models, on traditional localization jobs and roles. With backgrounds spanning translation, software localization, and project management, these industry veterans offer unique insights into technological disruptions they've witnessed throughout their careers. The conversation explores the nuanced relationship between technological innovation and human expertise, challenging the notion that new technologies will simply replace human workers. Instead, the guests suggest a more collaborative approach, emphasizing the continued importance of human verification and nuanced understanding in localization processes. Their discussion promises to provide listeners with a thoughtful, experienced perspective on navigating the rapidly changing technological landscape of the localization industry.

    52 min
  4. JAN 27

    Helping Companies to Grow and Scale, with Paul Barlow

    This episode of memoQ talks features a conversation between host Mark Shriner and industry veteran Paul Barlow. Paul shares his extensive background in the localization industry, starting in Dublin in the early days of the field and transitioning to the LSP side in the late 1990s. He discusses his experience helping small and medium-sized LSPs scale their operations and sales, emphasizing the importance of challenging legacy processes and having a clear growth strategy. The discussion delves into the unique challenges faced by smaller LSPs compared to their larger counterparts. Paul provides examples of LSPs that successfully repositioned themselves by focusing on their top clients, automating lower-value work, and having difficult but necessary pricing conversations. The conversation also covers the role of sales processes, CRM systems, and the emerging applications of AI in localization, such as automated transcription and project management tools. Throughout the discussion, Paul and Mark share insights on building authentic relationships, attending industry events, and leveraging social selling. Paul also shares his upcoming plans, including potential speaking engagements and consulting work with various LSPs and organizations. The podcast provides valuable perspectives for localization professionals, particularly those at small and medium-sized LSPs, on driving growth and navigating the evolving industry landscape. Acorn West Growth Strategies https://awgs.ai/

    39 min

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On memoQ talks we talk with localization industry leaders about best practices and important lessons learned related to all areas of localization including leadership, technology, security, data protection, vendor management, operations, quality assurance, business development, sales, marketing, human resources and more! Join us as we talk to and learn from our colleagues and peers in the localization industry.