Dating back to the 1970s, phone interpreting has always been an essential service that helps bridge the gap between one language and another. At Day Interpreting, our phone interpreting service is one of the best in the language services industry, but what are the best practices for using over-the-phone interpretation?
Although we offer an array of interpreting services, our OTP (over-the-phone) interpreting services work exceptionally well when you need a professional interpreter in the fastest time possible. Much like video remote interpretation, OTP is an on-demand language access solution that comes with its own set of best practices.
Let’s dig into it!
Tech Requirements for Over-the-Phone Interpretation Services
Phone interpreting is typically accessible by using a telephone or a computer with VoIP (voice-over-Internet protocol) capability. If the two communicating parties are in the same place, using a phone with two receivers or a dual handset phone makes it easier for them to communicate.
When NOT to Use Over-the-Phone Interpretation to Bridge Language Barriers
Telephonic interpretation is an excellent option for low-cost interpreting in situations where time is of the essence. But phone interpreting is not a one-size-fits-all solution for breaking language barriers. Especially not in scenarios where visual cues are important for communication.
When working with children, for example, on-site interpreters or video remote interpretation is the preferable option. Why? Well, because it provides them with the reassurance and human element they need to communicate freely.
On the other hand, you might need the services of a sign language interpreter when working with deaf people and the hard of hearing. American Sign Language can only be interpreted by on-site interpreters to ensure meaningful communication.
Breaking the language barrier isn’t a one-tool approach. Luckily, various interpretation services are available. Video interpretation might be better suited for ASL interpreting. In the same sense, it might be better to use an in-person interpreter for technical and medical terminology. Various language services are offered at Day Interpreting, and a phone interpreter is not your only option.
Accessing Over-the-Phone Interpretation Services
Two primary categories are available when providing telephone interpreting services.
Automated
This category uses an IVR or interactive voice response application. This application converts DTMF or keyed Dual Tone Multi-Frequency data or the spoken word into a request to connect to a target language interpreter. The system provides unique language codes that the caller keys in. Health care providers often use this option to cater to their Limited English Proficiency or LEP patients
Operator-Led
For the operator-led category, a human customer relations staff receives the call. The team gathers the pertinent information from the calling party and connects him or her to qualified interpreters. This is often used in emergency services in which the caller has no knowledge of which language code to use.
How to Use Over-the-Phone Interpretation Services
- Start by signing up for a complimentary Day Interpreting Account and receive your unique client ID. Your ID gives you access to an intuitive dashboard to log in to your profile and create a passcode.
- After you’ve set up your profile, you can buy prepaid credits online. Next, simply start using the Day Interpreting phone interpreting service.
- To instantly connect to a phone interpreter, just dial the toll-free number from your phone or the Day Interpreting dashboard. You can easily access the platform from any modern browser on any device, including your smartphone! No binding contracts. No hidden fees. Convenience and access to a professional phone interpreter when you need it most!
Wrapping Up
As you can see, phone interpretation is a great way to bridge the language barrier and a means to overcome cultural differences between two people that don’t speak the same language. Over-the-phone interpreters are available on-demand, unlike an on-site interpreter that requires advance bookings.
Here at Day Interpreting, our telephonic interpreters offer industry-leading language interpretation services. Plus they use the latest technology throughout the interpretation process. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our telephonic interpreting solutions!
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