Abstract: A multi-lingual data processing system can operate in a source language and one or more target languages by automatically translating text, such as application text and system message text. The multi-lingual data processing system includes computer software that can be developed and deployed in a source language and that obtains translated text from one or more translation tables corresponding to the target languages as the computer software is runs on the system. The translation system includes a translation table builder that creates and/or modifies the translation tables by importing translated text and/or by allowing a user to insert translated text. A translation configuration selector allows the user to select translation configuration setting, such as the selected locality. The translation tables include application text translation tables containing translated application text that is obtained by the application programs as each object is created by the application programs.