There are a number of strategic and tactical advantages which can be leveraged to a client’s advantage with remote simultaneous interpretation (RSI). Examples? Lower cost and greater flexibility. If the interpreters are working remotely, then a given client will not have to defray the costs of travel expenses. In terms of flexibility, a remote simultaneous interpreter can be deployed as quickly as logistics will allow since there is no need to actually fly or travel to the location.
How RSI Works
RSI works by having the interpreter view a live stream of the speaker. A web browser or smart device with WiFi access is typically sufficient for streaming the speech for interpretation purposes. The interpreter, on his or her hand, will usually require a microphone and headset for transmitting the real-time interpretation back. These are extremely affordable pieces of equipment compared to the equipment that was required only a generation ago.
Using Real-Time Technology
There is absolutely a time and place for conference translation services and sometimes a dual-language professional needs to be there in person, but the potential of remote simultaneous interpretation is only now being realized with greater access to technology. Remote interpretation is enabled by the ability to transmit events happening in real time to any part of the globe.
A remote simultaneous interpreter can translate speech from one language to another in real time without the need to haul bulky equipment to the onsite venue. Thus, a client’s carbon footprint is reduced and the burden on the site’s organizers is significantly reduced or eliminated.
Remote simultaneous interpreters are seizing an increasing share of work in the age of travel restrictions and the advent of cloud technology. Everyone these days seems to have smart devices outfitted with high-quality cameras and microphones, which are perfect for transmitting speeches and conferences in real time through the cloud. Simultaneous interpreters are in an ideal position to capitalize on this real-time technology because simultaneous interpretation itself is largely done in real time.
RSI Equipment is Commonplace
Simultaneous interpretation, as opposed to consecutive interpretation, denotes the process of translating a speech from one language to another language more or less while the speech is unfolding. In the past, simultaneous interpretation was almost science fiction or, at any rate, highly impractical since the process used to entail expensive wireless receivers and specialized headsets. Now this type of equipment is commonplace.
The ubiquity of smartphones and cloud technology have enabled simultaneous interpretation done remotely to, in many cases, be even more economical and feasible than in-person interpretation. Believe it or not, remote interpretation couldn’t be done in the past without the use of specialized, bulky equipment like soundproof booths! Gone are the days. Remote interpretation rendered in virtual real time has been hailed as the best way to make conferences of any size available to the general public and very low cost to clients. Attendees can easily connect to the interpretation via a smart device.