4 Key Factors to Consider Before Hiring an Online Transcriber

Services such as transcription are quickly moving online, with several companies and individuals advertising their transcription services on the web.

19:19 15 June 2017

There are many benefits of opting for online-based transcription rather than an in-person service, such as the ability to send the work to experienced transcribers from across the globe and the ease of transferring and receiving files digitally. However, before you choose an online transcription company, it’s important to consider some key points. You will want to find a company or individual that can get the work done quickly, within your budget, and above all, accurately.

 

 

#1. Speed of Delivery:

When choosing an online transcription service, one of the main questions that you’ll need to ask is how quickly you will receive your transcript. This will depend on a number of factors. For example, if you hire just one individual rather than a company, you can usually expect them to take a little longer as they may have work from other clients to prioritize. If you’re in a rush and need an audio file transcribed within just a couple of days, for example, then you will usually find that almost all transcribers can do this, but at the extra price of a rush delivery fee.

 

 

#2. File Security:

Depending on the type of audio file that you need to be transcribed, file security could be one of your top concerns. Certain audio and/or video files could contain sensitive materials, for example medical records, court evidence, confidential business meetings, or conversations with lawyers and attorneys. If you have a sensitive file that needs transcribing, the main thing that you’ll need assurance of is the safety and security of the data. In this case, it’s absolutely vital to find a transcriber who takes this issue very seriously.

 

 

#3. Accuracy:

When you have an audio or video file transcribed into written text, the main thing that you’ll want is an accurate result. This is why, in most cases, people in need of transcription services will always prefer companies or individuals who use people, rather than software programs, to do the work. A company or individual that uses transcription software may still provide good results. However, bear in mind that the accuracy could be compromised, especially if the file has a lot of background noise, multiple people speaking, or even regional accents.

 

 

#4. Cost:

Lastly, it’s important to make sure that the transcription service that you choose is able to get the job done within your given budget. When you get a quote, you should also enquire about any possible hidden fees; if terms and conditions are given to you, then be sure to read them carefully so that you don’t end up paying more than you thought you had agreed to. Most transcription services are charged per minute; however, additional costs are often added for multiple speakers, including filler words, or including nonverbal communications in the case of videos. So, make sure that you have the price right before you hand your files over.

Would you like to add to this list? Let us know in the comments.