Transcription is required for many professions including medical transcriptionists, lawyers, educational, court reporting, as well as standard corporate use. Computer technologies keep finding ways to improve these processes with a variety of transcription software and systems.
There are several varieties of transcription / dictation software packages and services.
Voice transcription software allows a computer to recognize human speech and automatically transcribe it.
Vendors include:
- IBM (ViaVoice)
- Intervoice
- Callmaster (Speechsoft)
- Nuance (formerly ScanSoft)
Medical transcription applications can use voice recognition capabilities for transcription, or it may use universal abbreviation expander software to allow the user to speed type. These programs should offer HIPAA compliance.
Vendors include:
- Speed type
- Dictaphone
- Spectramedi
3 rd party transcription services use transcription applications to allow customer's to call-in dictation that they transcribe for you. These services provide a variety of business transcription solutions including dictation equipment, transcription equipment, and speech recognition options.
Vendors include:
- Transcription gear
- Ubiqus
Transcription systems combine transcription software with foot pedals for start/stop, forward and rewind. These systems turn your PC into a high quality transcription machine that you can use with any word processing program.
Vendors include:
- Start Stop
- Transcription gear
Once you have made the decision to automate your transcription process, you should evaluate your specific business needs and decide which transcription option is best for you.
Several factors should be considered:
- Exact need
- Cost
- Ease of use and training
- Personnel requirements. Small businesses may be better served by a transcription service or voice recognition option rather than a software system requiring additional personnel.
- System resources: Memory can be an issue. If your system is low on available RAM, dictation speed may be a problem. A good quality sound card and microphone are required