The Benefits of Video Remote Interpreting for Multiple Industries
What are the benefits of video remote interpreting attracting demand?
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is a useful and convenient way of interpreting. Video Remote Interpreting provides qualified interpreter services to ensure effective communication by using video conferencing technology to connect and communicate with people who speak a foreign language, at a different location.
Statistics show that 20% of the world speaks English to some level, but what do you do when your put into a situation at work and you encounter someone who cannot speak English all that well? In this situation, which happens quite often, VRI is able to come to the rescue “on the fly” or in real-time within a matter of seconds. .
VRI is much more convenient than in-person interpreting. With the touch of a button, the service provider can find someone who speaks the language needed and from there, they can interpret for them on the spot. Most often, the individual interpreting will appear on screen. They can also see and hear you. Essentially, it’s like a Skype call where the interpreter Skypes in.
It is most commonly used in a wide variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, mental health care settings, corporate institutions and other workplaces, a technological advancement that has impacted many industries. Let’s take a look at how these industries have benefited tremendously from video remote interpreting.
Healthcare
The use of VRI in the healthcare industry is at high demand. If you think about it, doctors tell their patients very important information, making it an absolute necessity to have a VRI on call at all times. Often, individuals with limited knowledge of English, or deaf individuals, will come to the doctor in need of medical care. Those who do not speak English might be visiting from another country, or are patients who live in the US but haven’t become proficient enough for a conversation at this level. However, doctors must treat everyone who comes through their doors to the best of their ability, and relying on nonverbal cues and not effectively communicating with their patients can be extremely dangerous, especially if the patient is at high risk for something. It’s important for doctors to assess their symptoms to them, and it is important for a patient to know what the doctor is instructing whether it be for a medication or a procedure. Being unaware of what is happening, especially if it involves needles or any other type of procedure, can be a very scary experience.
Additionally, those coping with long term health issues need to be clear on what is happening and the doctor’s plan of action. As such, a VRI interpreter can be a literal lifesaver. By utilizing VRIs doctors can call them on the spot, put them on the screen, and continue treating their patients knowing they are in good hands.
The Legal Sector
In the United States, someone who will be going on trial for an offense with limited English has the legal right to an interpreter, or at least this is heavily implied within three of the Amendments to the US Constitution. This service is even more necessary in immigration hearings. While some courthouses see more immigration matters than others, or have a high population of individuals from another country, many do not employ interpreters on staff because it isn’t always practical.
Imagine hearing cases all day and then having someone come in from Hungary to have their case heard. Hungarian is notoriously difficult to learn, and only 13 million people speak it worldwide. That’s a little bit more than the population of New York City. It’s not likely that a court would employ a Hungarian speaker due to the limited number of those for whom it is their native language.As such, a VRI once again comes to the rescue and is always on hand. They will be able to help have their case hear fairly, without having to reschedule a court date, or effect anything else during this situation.
Technology
It’s no surprise that the technology industry heavily benefits and relies on VRI.
As many know, technology is rapidly expanding everyday, and new things are being invented and implemented at a fast pace. Technology is often a product of teamwork, and that teamwork can span the globe. You may have inventors in the United States working with a company in Japan liaising with a German company to help the dream come to life.
While translators may help with emails and other written documents, you’ll likely need to speak to each other at some point in real-time. With VRI, you can facilitate virtual meetings. And, if you ever do collaborate in person, VRI can ensure that all of your complex ideas get across to one another so that the product is the best it can be.
Conclusion
These industries are only just a few that take advantage of video remote interpreting everyday in order to accomplish goals or tasks in their workforce. As you can see, some industries need it a bit more than others, as it is necessary to get ideas across efficiently.
If you’re interested in using VRI technology for your business or public service, read our section about the services we offer. Here at Boostlingo, we have qualified and professional interpreters ready and waiting to help you understand others in your field.
