How to Choose the Best Online Transcription Service
by Abdul Aziz Mondal Small Business Published on: 09 March 2018 Last Updated on: 28 August 2020
There are several companies that offer transcription services in the global market. However, you need to be extremely careful as you choose a transcription service for your video or audio files. You need a company that will accurately and quickly clear the work within your budget. Here are some four tips that can help you in choosing an online transcription service that will meet your needs with a high level of precision.
The Speed with Which You Will Receive the Transcript :
Transcription services have varying turnaround time that flows from a few hours to several weeks. However, transcription services that deliver your work within 24 hours may charge you more for their services. Just make sure that you are comfortable with the time provision of the company and the stated budget. The turn around time may also vary depending on the size of your order. However, make sure the timelines are realistic so that the company does not compromise on quality while trying to bit the deadline. The company should have enough manpower to handle the order within the required timelines.
The Guaranteed Level of Accuracy :
You will discover that accuracy is a problem if you are only used to speech to text application. The quality of the work may even be worse if there is some noise in the background, accents in the audio or multiple speakers. Make sure the company you choose employs human beings and not a software to handle the transcription assignments. Most of the low-cost transcription agencies make use of software and you will see this reflecting in the quality of transcripts they give to their customers.
Does the Company Have Any Hidden Fees?
You may find a great difference between the transcription prices that the company advertises and what they actually charge their clients. You may find yourself paying higher than what the company initially advertised because of additional fees. Most transcription companies charge three standard fees which include timestamps, non-verbal communication, verbatim fees, and charge per audio minute. The fees may begin to increase when you need a faster delivery, technical content, accents, and one speaker. Go through the pricing policy of the company to have a clear understanding of the actual charges. You can also request for the whole quotation and ask the customer support team whether there are any additional charges in your case. It is wise to agree with the budget even before you place your order with the transcription service of your choice.
Are Your Files Secure :
Transcribing companies handle millions of files each year. Some of these files have very sensitive information such as proprietary information, business meetings that have company financial records, conversation with lawyers or law enforcement, and medical records among others. Make sure that the transcription service you choose takes maximum precaution to secure your files. You don’t want your private information to go into the public domain after some time. Don’t hesitate to ask some of the measures that the company has put in place to make sure that your file is secure.
Conclusion :
You need to be extremely careful as you choose transcription services. It is good to put into consideration the speed at which you are going to receive the transcript. Also, make sure that the company guarantees you a high level of accuracy and that your files are secure. You also need to go through the payment policy of the company to make sure that it has no hidden costs. The most important thing is to get the best services that the market has to offer when it comes to transcription.
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