Problem: The client is new to using WPML and inquired about the best setup for language files in themes, specifically whether it's better for performance to use .pot, .po, and .mo files in the theme or rely on WPML's auto-generated .mo files. Solution: We recommend providing .pot and .po files when creating your theme or plugin, as WPML will use these to create .mo files stored in /wp-content/languages/wpml. These .mo files are machine language files, identical to the .po files, and enhance site performance by loading faster. Additionally, using the option in WPML > String Translation to "Register strings while the page is rendered" is more effective than scanning for strings via WPML > Theme & Plugin Localization. This method registers only the strings that need translation and will be enabled by default in the upcoming WPML 4.7 version. For more details on translating your theme, visit Translating the Theme You Created.
If this solution does not apply to your case, or if it seems outdated, we highly recommend checking related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. If further assistance is needed, please open a new support ticket.
