TranscriptionwaveTranscription is a service which is not about to become redundant any time soon despite the influx of transcription software in the market. Technology has actually increased the need for transcription services within the business environment. As businesses embrace video conferencing and other recording technologies, their demand for transcription rises for the purpose of documentation. The legal and medical fields are still the leading fields which require large scale transcription services, but nowadays the need for these services also cuts across to individuals.
Who needs transcription services?
In a sense everyone at some point will need the services of a transcription company. From lecturers or students who record lecture sessions and need the audio converted to text to businesses which utilize record conferences and meetings; the need for transcription cuts across several fields. As mentioned, the need for transcription is greater within the legal and medical fields but the business environment is quickly utilizing these services as well.
Who should you hire?
When you have identified a need for transcription the next step is to contract the services of a transcriber. However, you will be faced with the task of deciding whether to hire a transcription company or a freelance transcriber. Large transcription companies are in a better position to take up equally large scale transcription tasks. This does not mean that freelance transcribers cannot work on large scale tasks, but that they are better off working on smaller tasks. This is because most freelance transcribers work from home and another challenge you will face is questioning the credibility of a freelance transcriber. It will be entirely up to you but you can seek recommendations or ask the transcriber for references to help you make your decision.
Cost versus quality
Cost will be one of the main determining points when it comes to hiring a transcriber. Different transcribers charge differently but mostly on a per-task or per-hour basis. Other factors such as the expected turnaround will also affect the cost. A transcriber who charges highly does not necessarily guarantee quality and neither does it mean that a transcriber who charges extremely low provides sub-standard quality work. Your best bet is asking for references from the transcriber and talking to their previous clients about their work ethics. You are better off going with a competent transcriber than placing price above quality. At the end of the day, your budget is also an important factor to consider when contracting the services of a transcriber.
