In recent years, video remote interpretation (VRI) has become a widely employed communication service amongst companies and individuals alike. In a nutshell, it allows two or more parties to overcome language barriers through the use of video conferencing software and an off-site interpreter. Most often used by lawyers, doctors, teachers and private corporations, this technology helps to ensure clear and effective communication with the added benefit of being completely remote. None of the parties need to be in the same location for a meeting thanks to VRI. This article will cover some of the primary benefits of these invaluable services for a company, individual or practitioner.
Hold Meetings Remotely
Thanks to the rise of social distancing, the need to be able to offer remote meetings has become apparent in recent years. Video remote interpretation allows conversations to be held effectively, regardless of where the participants are located.
The ability to speak with clients on the other side of the world without the need to travel can have a huge positive financial impact for businesses. Time that would have been spent traveling can now be used to hold additional meetings, or to focus on work that otherwise may have fallen by the wayside. Clients who previously would have struggled to meet in person can now see you from wherever in the world they are. The ability to increase a company’s customer base and work output is perhaps VRI’s biggest advantage.
Unlike in-person interpreters, VRI can provide interpretation at short notice and at any time of the day. Time differences will no longer pose a problem thanks to this type of software.
Ensures clear and effective communication
Clear and effective communication is key in all aspects of life - it is particularly vital in professional settings where a misunderstood message could have devastating effects. Take the healthcare industry, for example. If a patient were to misunderstand their doctor’s advice due to a language barrier, the impacts on their health could be catastrophic.
Video remote interpretation avoids these types of mishaps by offering precise interpretation for almost any spoken or signed language you can think of. VRI ensures clear communication in all circumstances.
The added visual element of VRI can also help to ensure clarity. Messages can easily be misunderstood if delivered over the telephone and seeing a person’s face allows the respective parties to identify confusion and emphasize important points via use of their facial expressions. A surprising percentage of human communication is ‘non-verbal’ in nature.
Cost effective
Video remote interpretation can be much more affordable than employing an onsite interpreter. Onsite interpreters will charge for their time, as well as their mileage and other expenses. These costs can add up quickly, but you can avoid nearly all of them by using VRI. On top of this, if you needed an interpreter for a large event, they would require special equipment. This might include audio and visual links as well as a soundproof booth, and of course you would be required to pay for this equipment. In the case of VRI, all you will need is a computer or an app.
Essentially, the only cost when using VRI is the rate of the interpreting services, and usually these are very affordable. There is no doubt that video remote interpretation has countless benefits for companies, individuals or practitioners who require this type of service. VRI is widely available. Be sure to use a professional and reputable agency when looking at VRI for your business.
