As of today, there is a vast option of transcription services available. It is up to you to choose the best online transcription service. So scout the market and see which among the list is the best for your needs.
Accuracy Level
Among other things, quality is the top priority when it comes to transcribing. Moreover, with technology, transcription services are more accessible. Nevertheless, it affected even the automation services. Thus, the decrease in demand for human transcriptions.
Most opt for online transcription services even for some who want to transcribe voice memos. Others still prefer manual transcription. But when choosing the most suitable for you, review the qualities. For example, an excellent language skill brings more accurate transcriptions. In addition, it can interpret regional accents. Therefore, look for online transcriptionists with a wide scope of languages.
Moreover, consider the capacity of an online transcriber for error recognition. It saves time and effort when minimal grammatical and punctuation errors occur. Plus, it makes the transcription precise.
In addition, you can check the level of accuracy through the free trial. Try out the services first before you sign up for an online transcriber. See if the provider can deliver the standards you expect.
Turnaround Time
Another factor to look into is the speed of transcription services. There are moments when a transcript is needed as soon as possible. Media professionals, investigators, journalists, and students need a fast turnaround time.
If this is the case, look for a high-speed online transcription service. The measure of the time starts when the transcriptionist receives the audio file. Then, it is done once the transcript is delivered. Transcribers can provide a more efficient and quick turnaround time with modern-day technology.
However, you have to consider the settings of the digital audio file and the final output.
- Audio Quality
- Formatting
- Number of Speakers
- Speaker Accents
- Time Stamps
- Topic of Conversation
- Verbatim
These details matter when your requested transcription is time-sensitive.
Audio Format
The best online transcription service supports various audio formats. Therefore, it helps in saving time for converting media files. In addition, the audio file format depends on the type of project. Therefore, identify first the purpose of the transcript to find the most suitable formal.
A research interview requires a transcript, even if it’s raw. It is not difficult to find a conversion of a hard copy to digital media. Various general transcription services offer it. However, a more delicate format is quite a hassle.
Features
When looking for the best online transcription service, you need to see other features it offers. On top of fast and accurate turnover, you need to know the uploading process. Does it allow multiple uploads of recordings? Will it recognize and support large files? For example, can it take 1 gigabyte of recording?
Furthermore, search if the online transcription service offers a customizable transcript. It is applicable if you need to input timestamps or timecodes in it. If a service provides such assistance, it is a plus. Nevertheless, the transcribing service includes a detailed guide and easy-to-use templates.
Lastly, see that the online transcription service delivers the final transcript conveniently. Often, it comes back to you through email. Plus, make sure it is shareable with your other project partners and colleagues.
Cost of Transcription
Of course, you should not forget to review the pricing of an online transcription service. The best-transcribing provider comes with unmatched speed and accuracy. Plus, they offer precision and an affordable pricing structure. However, don’t overlook the delivery time of the transcribed content data.
Some companies compromise some of these aspects during pricing. So when you look for the best among others, review standard factors that might affect the cost.
- Audio and Video Quality
- Hybrid Technology
- Industry-Related Practices
- Industry Trends
- Jargon Usage
- Turnaround Time
- Work Complexity
Sometimes, extra features add up the price.
- Accent
- Background Noise
- Special Request of Format
- Voice Clarity
Once you review the reasons for the price, you can decide whether you’ll make it or break it. Furthermore, make sure you understand the payment method too. It’s better to enroll in pay-as-you-go online transcription services. So you’ll only pay for the immediate service you need.
In addition, take time to discuss the pricing details. Also, clear the possible upcharges during the transcribing.
Information Security
One of the top priorities during transcribing is confidentiality. Meetings, conference calls, interviews, and more are regularly transcribed. These conversations contain vital information for a company or product. Therefore, information security must be checked when choosing the best online transcription service.
Always scrutinize the provider’s capability to protect data from hacks and information leakage. Also, be familiar with the culture of confidentiality. It helps you see if the audio file and transcript are kept sensitive.
Most reliable transcription services have ISO. It is a safeguard that ensures all information is accessible to authorized access.
Skills and Location of Transcriptionists
Transcribing is a challenging task, especially if you lack skills and patience. So when you choose an online transcription service, identify the skills and location. Why? Hiring a non-native transcriptionist might result in a poor transcript. Often, there are issues with grammar, brand names spellings, and idiom phrases.
On the other hand, a native speaker can comprehend what a simple phrase means. Therefore, provide a more accurate, technical, or ethnic transcript. Plus, it helps retain the cultural and language variations.
Available Languages
Having a local transcriber is vital. Nevertheless, a wide range of language online transcription services gives you a better scope. So, it’s best to have a certified bilingual transcription. But make sure it has the expertise in the local language as well.
If you work with a multilingual transcription provider, you can work fast with superior accuracy. In addition, you don’t have to worry about looking for another transcription service if the audio contains various dialects.
Recent Customer Reviews
One that you shouldn’t miss is the previous customer reviews. It is the simplest and most accessible way of identifying the best online transcription service provider. Look into recommendations from colleagues and business partners. Also, you may search for the company name on its official website.