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Sign language interpreting services have been in high-demand throughout the Coronavirus crisis.
Every day, sign language interpreters have been given the task of relaying the gravity of the Covid-19 crisis to global news audiences. However, in many cases, interpreters haven’t been physically present in newsrooms. Instead, most news studios have been making use of VRI interpreters.
What is VRI Interpreting?
Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, many television newsrooms have been making use of Video Remote Interpreting (VRI). This is where sign language interpreters aren’t physically present in television studios. Instead, they join in broadcasts via live streams from remote locations.
In business contexts, Video Remote Interpreting works the same way.
Instead of hiring a sign language interpreter to be physically present at in-person meetings, meetings take place via video conference calls. As calls take place, interpreters appear on-screen translating all spoken English to ASL and vice versa.
In the past, VRI sign language interpreters were mainly used by businesses that needed to communicate long-distance, (and usually on a one-off basis), with people with hearing impairments. However, because of the Coronavirus pandemic, VRI interpreting might be about to become more commonplace.
How Do Video Remote Sign Language Interpreting Services Work?
Do you need to hire a sign language interpreter? If so, getting started with VRI is altogether easy.
To start, simply schedule a video conference call with someone with a hearing impairment. After doing so, reach out to ourselves at Languagers.
When you let our team at Languagers know when your meeting will take place, we will identify a suitable interpreter. Our interpreter will then join you in your meeting, using whatever video conferencing tool you will be using to converse with your client.
Video Remote Interpreting Essentials
At Languagers, our VRI interpreters are some of the best in the industry. However, for virtual meetings to be a success, it is important to prepare for meetings carefully.
- Make sure that you and your client have access to a fast and reliable Internet connection.
- Before meetings, check that your computer or device camera and mic are working properly.
- Before meetings commence, make sure that you, your client, and your sign language interpreter, all know what app you will be using to video conference. (Zoom, Skype, Cisco Webex, etc.)
What Happens During a VRI Conference Call?
When it is time to start meetings with hearing-impaired clients and business associates, your VRI interpreter will be ready to start translating your spoken English to Sign Language. They will also translate sign language replies back to you in spoken English in real-time.
During meetings, you will also be able to communicate privately with your interpreter via text.
What are the Benefits of Video Remote Interpreting?
In the past, businesses have made use of remote sign language interpreting services, when it has not been possible to meet with hearing-impaired clients or business associates in person.
Now, in 2020, Video Remote interpreting looks set to become more commonplace, as many businesses ditch physical meetings altogether in favor of video conferencing.
- Video conferencing is safer for all parties involved in meetings.
- Hiring Video Remote interpreters is usually more cost-effective than hiring interpreters who work on-site at your location.
- Unlike when hiring a sign language interpreter to work at your location, it is often possible to hire VRI interpreters the same day you need them.
Do you often need to communicate with clients or business associates with hearing impairments? If so, do them the courtesy of having an interpreter on hand during your next conference call.
Find out more about VRI interpreting now by clicking here.
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