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Tuesday 4 June 2013

How A Professional Transcription Can Avoid Conflict And Misunderstanding

By Ladonna Chambers


The complexity of modern living has many manifestations. Mountains of paperwork are just one of them. Everything must be recorded and properly notarized and only the foolish will even consider entering into an oral agreement. Even formal discussions are recorded and an accurate professional transcription of proceedings has become more important than ever before. It is vital to have records that are precise in order to avoid misunderstandings and conflict at a later stage.

One of the most popular methods to record proceedings remains the stenotype machine. This machine looks a little like a typewriter but it is rather a mechanical short hand device. The operator is skilled in using various combinations of keys in conjunction with each other to record not only the words spoken, but also gestures. In these times the machine can be connected to a computer that uses proprietary software to handle the translation into ordinary text.

Modern professionals tend to use advanced audio equipment to record proceedings and to produce the transcripts at leisure at a later stage. While they rely on their equipment to record the proceedings, they keep themselves busy making notes about the various participants, the surroundings and non verbal communication issues. Transcripts are extremely accurate, but they take longer to produce than is possible with automated stenotype machines.

Voice writing is another method that is gaining in popularity. Here the operator actually repeats everything that is said during the proceedings. He does this by speaking in a special mask, so as not to disrupt the meeting. The mask acts as a voice silencer. Emotions and gestures are also recorded, so the operator needs to be quick and intelligent.

Traditionally, these professionals were only employed in the courts. These days, however, their services are demanded everywhere. Lawyers use them to record depositions, governments use them to keep track of important negotiations and businesses employ them to record critical talks and meetings. They are even in demand to accurately record important speeches and policy statements.

There is much more to this type of job than merely producing accurate transcripts. Professionals are required to maintain meticulous records because they may be asked to provide additional copies of transcripts at short notice. In many cases they also spend a lot of time studying and maintaining computer software systems. It is also necessary to stay abreast of new technology and to upgrade existing systems as they become available.

To be successful in this career it is necessary to have an aptitude for languages. Practitioners have to be knowledgeable in the specific terminology used in the legal, medical and business environments. Many business schools offer courses and students must pass both theoretical and practical tests. Most practitioners are avid readers and they must be technologically literate and have a keen interest in current affairs.

In these modern days it is easy to cast doubt on exactly what was said and meant during official proceedings. The only way in which to avoid such misunderstandings is to make sure that there is a professional transcription of the meeting. This profession requires a high degree of accuracy and a real desire to be precise.




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