Onsite or Remote Interpreting: Which Is More Popular Post-Pandemic?

Remote interpreting is not something new that our world has only witnessed since the pandemic. Providing language interpretation online or over the phone has been a growing part of the languages industry for many years.

It has just been massively accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Remote interpretation services and interpreters are suddenly more in demand than ever.

Let’s look at the role of remote interpreting in a post-Covid world.

What Is the Difference Between Onsite and Remote Interpreting?

Onsite interpreting is the traditional form in which spoken language services are delivered. When one group of people speaks to another group face to face, using a single person with knowledge of all the languages spoken by both groups, it is called onsite interpreting.

Remote interpreting is usually available in the same modes as onsite interpreting. The only difference between these two interpreting services is that the linguist and the parties involved in the conversation are not all at the same physical location.

Remote interpreters can join through any communication channel, be it a phone call, a video call or anything else.

Remote interpreters have in fact been serving in conferences, healthcare, judicial and diplomatic circles for years. Back then, the cost of remote interpretation used to be very high. But today, with significant and innovative advances in technology, it seems to be the most affordable yet relevant option.

Types of Remote Interpretation

1. Over-the-Phone Interpreting (OPI)

In this type, the groups and the interpreter communicate via a shared phone line, making it one of the most affordable ways to deliver interpreting services.

2. Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)

In this mode, the parties and the interpreter can see each other while communicating.

3. Remote Simultaneous Interpreting (RSI)

These services are delivered through telecommunications software during virtual presentations, webinars and similar events.

4. Remote Consecutive Interpreting (RCI)

Consecutive interpreting can be delivered via telecommunications software in business meetings, legal interviews or doctor appointments.

Is Remote Interpreting Preferable Post-Pandemic?

Demand for interpreting services continues to expand in global markets where organisations and people who speak different languages wish to do business. With Covid-19 preventing physical meetings, remote interpreting solutions like OPI, VRI, RSI and RCI have rapidly become the go-to choice for many people who require language services.

Here are the top reasons why remote interpreting could be the future of interpreting services:

1. Convenience

A professional linguist with reliable subject-matter experience can be added to any call quickly and easily. Travelling is not required, which also saves time and money when opting for remote interpreting services.

From healthcare organisations to manufacturers, banks and airlines, everyone prefers to hire remote interpreters for better convenience.

2. Affordable

When it comes to language interpretation, phone or video interpreting seems to be the most cost-effective option, especially now that easy-to-use apps and digital services are available everywhere.

3. Flexible and Scalable

With the remote availability of interpreters, businesses of all sizes can easily and instantly access the language support they need, on a flexible basis, to meet their specific demands.

4. Highly Secure

With cloud-based solutions, conversation participants can access spoken interpretation through their mobile devices without facing security threats or the risk of compromised quality.

Remote interpreting services are undoubtedly the most affordable yet reliable option for businesses and people seeking language interpretation during the pandemic. But the question is: will this change stick in a post-pandemic world too?

Many organisations, including Facebook, Twitter and other big tech companies, have already stated that working from home will become permanent for many employees when the pandemic is over.

Industries like healthcare and legal seem set to continue this trend too.

Onsite interpreters may soon be back at work in certain situations. But in the post-pandemic world, it looks like the increasing recognition of remote interpreting is here to stay, thanks to its convenience, availability and affordability.

If you’re looking for remote interpreting services, we can help!

Translationworks has extensive experience in delivering remote interpreting services for global events and is well positioned to continue providing those services during the Covid pandemic.

To get more information on our services, talk to an expert today.