We’ve discussed translation and interpreting in length, but there is one type of service that we have yet to tackle. Professional Transcription services. Transcription is the conversion of spoken language into written, typewritten or printed form. The spoken-language source usually comes from a recording in DVD/CD format, audio cassette/microcassette or digital files. The content on the recorded audio can range anywhere from legal, law enforcement, entertainment, medical and market research, just to name a select few. American Language Services has professional transcriptionists available that specialize in a countless number of fields and proficient in hundreds of languages.
Transcription projects are often under-estimated in the sense that many do not realize there are several factors that go into quoting a transcription project as well as putting the project into production. When first analyzing a transcription project, one of the very first things to be taken into account is sound quality. Are the speakers on the audio audible? Is there static or background noise that makes the speech hard to understand? Will the audio need to be filtered to properly interpret the context? Next, what format is the audio in? We at American Language Services understand that several different types of recording devises are used based on the individual’s preferences. We have the equipment and capabilities necessary for extracting audio from a variety of different formats. Some other things such as how many speakers are on the audio or what type of terminology is used may come into play as well. When there are more speakers on the audio, the greater the likelihood of speech overlapping, which can greatly affect the audibility of the audio and in turn, affect the quality of the final transcript. Finally, it needs to be noted if the terminology used on the audio is technical or complex. If technical language is used, it is essential to find a transcriptionist with the necessary experience and background of that particular field to ensure accuracy of spelling, grammar and overall context. After the initial analysis is complete, several other preferential aspects need to be addressed. Would the individual like the transcript time coded? How should the speakers be labeled and identified? Is there a specific template the individual would like used? Should speakers entering/leaving the room be noted in the transcript? These are just a few.
Although many factors come into play with dealing with transcription projects, there is one thing that remains constant. Transcriptions should be done by experienced,professional transcriptionists with the proper and necessary equipment to ensure the best quality transcription service possible. We at American Language Services can provide just that for over 26 years.
