Microsoft releases interface pack to enable Farsi-language Office 2003 applications

The LIP can be installed on top of the English language version of Office 2003, to Farsi-enable Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint applications.

The Farsi LIP has been developed as part of Microsoft's Local Language Program (LLP), a global initiative that fosters the development of regional language groups, enabling them to preserve and promote their language and culture while benefiting from continuing IT advancements. The program works with developers and local interest groups to create Language Interface Packs, which enable the customization of leading Microsoft software applications and platforms with local language capabilities. The LLP is enabling people around the world to work with PCs in their native languages, some of them for the first time.

'At Microsoft, we are committed to working with communities all over the world on programs and initiatives that address their specific challenges and meet the needs of their citizens,' said Assem Hijazi, Localization Program Manager, Microsoft Corporation. 'Empowering communities and individuals around the world to reach their full potential is a top priority for Microsoft. Through the Local Language Program, we hope to provide opportunities to people of all regions, locales and languages, and enable them to realize that potential, through removing language barriers to accessing technology.'

Language Interface Packs are developed by Microsoft in cooperation with local governments and communities to ensure that the local languages are defined, standardized and agreed on by users of the language, resulting in consistent local terminology across components.

For the Farsi LIP, development work was handled at Microsoft's facilities in Dublin and the US, while a team in Dubai worked on the linguistic elements, including a 25,000 word Farsi dictionary. The local academic community was also involved in the project. Two students from the University of Sharjah and one from the American University Dubai worked with the team in Dubai on testing and creation of the Farsi dictionary.

With LIPs, users can install one specific language version as a layer on top of an existing installation of Office Standard Edition 2003 applications. The Farsi LIP is available now as a free download from www.microsoft.com/middleeast/arabicdev.

'We are very pleased to be able to offer Farsi capabilities for our products to Farsi speakers around the globe,' said Hijazi. 'Microsoft has an ongoing commitment to local software development, and the language program plays an important part in involving communities in our projects and in enabling them to promote their language and culture while benefiting from continuing IT advancements.'