Without a doubt, the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic is going to have long-lasting effects on numerous areas of life. In an attempt to adapt, many have found themselves adopting new work methods and trying to maintain productivity while practicing responsible social distancing. The purpose of this article is to explore some of the options for conducting appointments requiring remote interpreting services.
Depositions and EUOs, IMEs, hospital visits, physical therapy appointments, interviews and more. Due to the multi-cultural, multi-lingual nature of modern-day America, many times these appointments call for the use of interpreter services. Fortunately technology provides us with a number of helpful alternatives to traditional face-to-face onsite interpreting.
Telephonic Interpreting
Over-the-phone conferencing is often the most economical option for remote interpreting services. Telephonic interpreting also provides flexibility for all-parties, as there is little set-up required. Physical appearance isn’t as relevant a factor. All that is required for the interpreter is a quiet environment, free from distraction. To inquire more about telephonic services and to schedule over-the-phone interpreting for your appoint, see what Access Interpreting has to offer here:
Telephonic Interpreting does, however, have a major drawback. The inability to see and visually interact with participants on a call can at times hinder the ability of an interpreter to manager speakers. Being able to “manage the room” and control the flow of speech is critical to an interpreters ability to accurately and completely perform their job. There is another option, though that helps alleviate that issue.
Video-Conference Interpreting
Video-conferencing is a great option for connecting remotely, while also maintaining the visual contact necessary to best perform their job. As technology has improved, so has the availability and practicality of video-conferencing for a number of purposes. Let’s check out some of useful platforms:
Google Meet (meet.google.com)
Google meet provides free video-conference services for Google clients with very few of the restrictions typically associated with free accounts. Participants can connect quickly and can even do so from their gmail home page.
Zoom (zoom.us)
The big name in modern remote work, Zoom is a great tool for holding video-conferences with multiple participants. It’s user-friendly and there is no need for participants to sign-up for an account. Participants can access prearranged meetings with an access number. Non-paid accounts are generally limited to 40-minute calls, however Access Interpreting LLC’s services also include use of the paid zoom account free of time restrictions.
Skype (skype.com)
Skype is a similar video-conferencing tool, that also has great, intuitive features. The plus is that many are already familiar with Skype and may already even have it installed on their phone or desktop.
The choice essentially comes down to which platform will be most accessible for your participants. Whichever you decide is best for you, we’re more than willing to accommodate. Contact Access Interpreting today for a complimentary estimate or schedule with a remote interpreter today!
