How do you approach selecting the right fonts for multilingual projects, especially when considering non-Latin scripts and cultural nuances?

Selecting the right fonts for multilingual projects, especially with non-Latin scripts, requires cultural sensitivity, technical knowledge, and aesthetic judgment. Here’s how to approach it effectively:

1. Understand the Project's Cultural Context

Research the cultural significance of typefaces in the target languages.

Ensure fonts align with the tone (e.g., formal, playful) and audience expectations.

2. Choose Fonts with Multilingual Support

Select typefaces with robust language coverage, including non-Latin scripts like Arabic, Cyrillic, or Chinese.

Verify that the font offers consistent design across all scripts to maintain visual harmony.

3. Focus on Legibility

Prioritize readability by considering font size, line spacing, and character forms appropriate to each script.

Test legibility for longer texts, especially in complex scripts like Devanagari or Thai.

4. Balance Aesthetics and Functionality

Match stylistic qualities (e.g., serif vs. sans-serif) across scripts for cohesive branding.

Be mindful of scripts with unique typographic traditions, like vertical text in East Asian languages.

5. Adapt for Cultural Nuances

Avoid fonts that may have unintended cultural or historical connotations.

Ensure that glyph designs respect linguistic norms, avoiding overly stylized forms in formal contexts.

6. Test Cross-Script Compatibility

Check how Latin and non-Latin characters interact, especially in mixed-language layouts.

Use fonts designed by foundries specializing in multilingual typography for optimal results.

7. Consider Technical Requirements

Ensure the font supports advanced typographic features (e.g., ligatures, kerning) for scripts requiring them.

Confirm compatibility with design software and digital platforms.

8. Collaborate with Native Speakers

Seek feedback from native speakers or local designers to verify authenticity and appropriateness.