What is Remote Inter­preting?

Definition

Remote interpreting, or RI, is when interpreters are not in the same physical location as the speakers (not sure what interpreting is? check out our article here).

We at Kagon Kommunikation have years of experience working remotely.

Remote Interpreting in action

There are different modes of interpreting and various options for you. This article explains what is best for you!

Remote consecutive interpreting

Consecutive means that speakers and interpreters take turns instead of speaking at the same time. Take a conference call for example. The CFO might describe the company’s incredible earnings in German. The interpreter would take notes and then interpret into English for the analysts on the call. The interpreter would then jot down the questions about the details asked in English and subsequently translate them into German.

Remote simultan­eous interpreting

In remote simultaneous interpreting, or RSI, the words a speaker says are translated while they are still speaking. So while a French minister is speaking, his counterpart could listen to Arabic interpretation. Because the speaker and interpreter do not have to take turns it also takes less time. To make this work remotely, we offer various solutions.

How do we offer remote interpreting?

simple solution is to have the meeting on Zoom using the language interpreting feature, which is available as part of some Zoom plans. Kagon Kommunikation has access to this feature and we are happy to set up the meeting and provide the necessary technical support.

Not all videochat programs come with a built-in solution. In this case, we work from our partner hub. This means that the interpreters still work using interpreting equipment, such as hard consoles, mixers, and a soundproof booth, but the translation is fed to an app on the listener’s computer or smartphone.

What is needed for RSI to work?

good internet connection is a prerequisite as it reduces lag and interruptions to the audio. But we all know the key to a successful remote meeting is not just that all the necessary information is communicated, but that it keeps listeners’ attention. That is why we recommend using high-quality microphones and earphones. High quality audio gives your event the production values of an in person event, allowing the interpreter to clearly hear everything that is said and participants to easily hear the interpreter. 

Want another pro tip? Using high-quality headsets also reduces Zoom fatigue – with or without an interpreter. We use them ourselves and are happy to make a recommendation.

What are the advantages?

We find that remote interpreting, particularly simultaneous remote interpreting, is a great add-on for online meetings up to 4 hours. It greatly expands the international reach of all kinds of events. Where participants once had to weigh travel and time costs of participating in a far away event, now with a single click they are there. So why not give your event the language tools it needs for a truly international reach? 

Contact

If you are planning a multi-language online event, please get in touch. We love helping you! In case you want to know more about Kagon Kommunikation have a look at our company site.