Digital international language management: opportunities and challenges for multilingual organizations

Purpose Technological advancements have compelled international organizations to adopt digital solutions that offer faster, cheaper and more effective global operational methods. One potential application is digital international language management, defined as the implementation, coordination and control of organizational language practices through advanced technological means. In this conceptual article, we aim to establish digital international language management as a theoretical term and explore its practices. Design/methodology/approach This discussion paper elaborates on the opportunities and challenges of digital language management as identified in existing research. It debates the extent to which digital international language management can substitute or expand traditional methods of formulating and implementing language policies and practices. Findings We propose that digital international language management, using artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools, has the potential to enhance task collaboration, relationship building, information transfer, language learning, media adaptation and external communication in multilingual organizations. However, significant challenges remain in ensuring accuracy, preserving authentic communication and fostering deep interpersonal relationships. Originality/value This paper presents digital international language management as a new concept. Drawing on this, we provide insights into the impact of technological advancements on organizational language practices in intercultural contexts. We further advocate for a critical reexamination of foundational theories in language-sensitive research. Finally, we offer guidelines for organizations seeking to update policy formulation and language management practices.