VRI (Video Remote Interpreting) is a wonderful combination of technology and humanity. VRI uses the power of real-time, online streaming conferencing to connect users with tens of thousands of highly skilled translators around the world who help people communicate in different languages.
As more sectors realize the benefits of adding a visual aspect to the interpreting experience while preserving the expensive per-minute pricing of phone interpreting, VRI use keeps expanding.
How can we make sure that video remote interpretation is compliant?
The VRI communication criteria have been given out by the National Association for the Deaf (NAD) and the ADA rules. The facility must meet the following conditions in order to deliver VRI services:
- Demands on the Network
- Tablets, iPads, and mobile computer stations must be connected to the internet via a secure, non-public connection.
- For live video streaming, you’ll need a high-speed internet connection.
- To maintain a connection, the interpreting firm must have a dependable network.
- Device Requirements
- Sound: Make sure that the VRI device you’re using has clear sound on both sides. The interpreter must be able to hear everything and interact with everyone in the room.
- Camera: The camera must be able to show the deaf person’s full upper body. This is simple in a quiet situation, such as a business meeting, but it can get complicated in an emergency. Contrary to a common misconception, American Sign Language (ASL) is more than just a sign language; it can also include arm and lip motions, as well as facial expressions.
Is it safe to use?
The most significant threat are cybercriminals. Every day, we read about data breaches involving sensitive and private information. Clients frequently utilize VRI to discuss sensitive material such as medical information (also known as “Protected Health Information,” which is subject to HIPAA’s strong confidentiality and security requirements), legal information, and corporate trade secrets. As a result, it’s important that the dialogue take place through secure channels.
The good news is that VRI is intended to be a secure mode of communication.
Is every language available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?
Today, there are 7,097 languages spoken on the planet, and around 2,400 of them are under threat. As a result, the truthful answer to this question is “no.”
Only 23 out of the 7,097 languages spoken now account for more than half of the world’s population.
Different language interpretation requirements will prevail in each geographical region. As a result, language industry experts seek to provide languages that fulfill their clients’ demands based on their locations.
Can you just use interpreters who are based in the United States?
The law may limit offshore expenditure for customers in some businesses, particularly where public contracts are involved. VRI services will only be provided by interpreters based in the United States.
Many VRI platforms are built with this in mind, with options to limit access to interpreters residing in the United States only.
Is it really necessary to have dedicated devices?
VRI services do not need the usage of dedicated equipment. Your VRI device might be the same smartphone or tablet you use for home visits or at a customer’s location. Similarly, the same laptop or desktop you use to write emails and conduct web searches can easily be converted into a VRI communication tool as necessary.
What are the available languages?
Languages available include spoken languages and American Sign Language (ASL). ASL interpreters can be tough to come by in your area. For your deaf and hard-of-hearing clients and patients, VRI services for ASL are an excellent alternative to in-person interpreters.
How much does VRI cost you, at least?
Compared to in-person interpreters, there are several cost advantages to utilizing VRI. There are minimal charges for live interpretation, and you may be required to pay trip and mileage fees if an interpreter is not available in your region. You will be charged if you cancel a live interpreter at the last minute, but you will not be charged for VRI. When you use your account, you’ll be charged a reasonable per-minute fee (some minimums may apply) while getting all the benefits of a premium service like VRI.
What VRI conditions must be satisfied?
As outlined in the Department of Justice’s Guidelines on ADA Requirements, the following standards must be met by VRI.
- Real-time, full-motion video and audio sent over a dedicated high-speed, wide-bandwidth video connection or wireless connection that produces high-quality video images free of lags, choppy, blurry, grainy images, or irregular communication pauses
- A large enough image to show the interpreter’s face, arms, hands, fingers, and the face, arms, hands, and fingers of the person utilizing sign language, regardless of their body posture.
