Hi, my name is Anthony and today I will be making a short video
looking at how to choose the right transcription services for you.
Firstly, some basic information about the transcription services industry.
There are three major differences between online transcription companies.
The first is Sectors.
Different companies have different specialisms including medical transcription,
legal transcription, media, journalism and more so consider which is best for you.
Differences in approach include writing style
(for example intelligent verbatim or verbatim)
and transcript format (standard, time coded or subtitled).
Finally, we have standards and turnaround times which can be hugely varied.
Looking at turnaround times for urgent work, there are some things to consider.
First of all, compromising.
Transcription is a time consuming process and it’s important
not to compromise on quality.
The best advice is to go with a company that has a good track record of urgent
files and is confident to promote and take on urgent work.
Having to convince a transcription company to take on urgent work
should ring alarm bells about their capacity to meet your deadlines.
Getting it right.
The shorter the deadline, the higher the price, so make sure you need
a quick turnaround to keep costs down.
In looking at other options, remember a higher price doesn’t always mean
superior quality in terms of urgent work so consider trying to extend your
deadlines or better still, plan ahead.
Next section, we will look at proofreading.
The standard for proofreading when it comes to transcription services
is the transcriptionist who types out the interview, focus group or
dictation will proofread the document on completion.
There will usually be a charge for an extra proofreader.
Ascertain whether this is the case so you know what to expect.
Also, plan ahead.
Proofreading takes time, so deadlines may need to be extended to add on this service.
If you do have a long enough deadline, an option is to check first
whether a proofread is required before ordering the service.
Next, we’ll take a look at the Industry Knowledge.
This one is really important for more technical transcriptions such as
medical transcription, legal transcription or academia.
Industry knowledge helps with accuracy in terms of terminology
and spellings, making for higher quality transcripts.
Industry knowledge can also mean quicker transcription and typing as
less research is required.
When it comes to cost savings, a company with experience in your industry
should able to offer packages for all of your requirements.
For example, transcription as well as copy typing, formatting,
subtitle writing and more...
Next we will take a look at File Confentiality.
File Confidentiality is hugely important when it comes to working online.
Check if the transcription service you are looking at offers flexibility when it
comes to uploading large, sensitive audio and video files.
Also consider the reliability of the FTP.
In-house file transfer systems may help transcription companies to create
a streamlined process, but might not be as reliable or easy to use as larger
FTP companies such as DropBox, WeTransfer, YouSendIt and many others.
Also when it comes to technical aspects of working with video transcription
and audio transcription, the website should be easy
to use with clear instructions.
There should be technical support available when required,
and the company should be able to demonstrate industry specific
technical knowledge and experience.
Next we will take a look at Client Confidentiality.
Client confidentiality is paramount.
Check and confirm what processes are used for transcriptionist
recruitment and vetting.
Are confidentiality agreements signed?
Are secure technical procedures in place to encrypt documents?
If your company is UK based, check that your chosen UK transcription company
is registered with the Data Protection Act.
And lastly, just some final thoughts and ideas.
Try to talk directly with your chosen transcription service provider to
find out how flexible they are to work to your requirements.
Flexibility is such a huge asset to any online company and packaging
your projects together can save a lot of time and money.
Remember, starting any professional relationship is a big step,
so think about what you need to know beforehand and ask the right questions.
We hope this video helped you on your journey
to finding the right transcription company.
Thanks for watching.