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 VRI is an efficient, convenient and cost effective way to deal with language differences within your company and beyond, and as more of us today are increasingly comfortable with video communication, it makes perfect sense that VRI becomes a standard in the tool box of any business in any sector. 

Let’s look more closely at how it can improve your business performance.  

Accuracy

Video interpreting is as accurate as the in-person alternative. You still get the benefits of visual communication and no facial cues are missed, but you get the added bonus of the simplicity of just making a call. Because it is so easy, businesses are more inclined to develop relationships across language and cultural barriers. The personal touch is maintained and that important feeling of connection is not lost – a feeling that is even more important when you’re traversing languages.

Cost Effective

This system can have a positive impact on your budget. By using a video call, you are cutting down the cost of the service. There is no need for expensive equipment such as soundproof booths, audio/visual links for access to the main speaker or headsets for all those requiring the interpretation. Instead, for VRI, you just need your audience to download the app on their phone. In-person interpreting often requires paying an appointment fee, as well as travel expenses and other costs that may be incurred by your interpreter, whereas VRI costs nothing more than the initial fee. 

Convenient

This method of remote interpreting is very convenient, with no need to waste time on travel or invest in expensive equipment. All you need is a laptop or tablet (of course you need to check that your device has a camera, speaker and microphone) and you’re good to go. It can all be organised in a relatively short time period, too. Distance becomes irrelevant and the stress of organising in-person meetings is non-existent.

Improving Your Customers’ Experience

There are many ways in which VRI can enhance the experience of your customer, which at the end of the day is paramount in business. Let’s take a look at some of these.

Privacy

Particularly with Over The Phone Interpreting (OPI), your customer maintains an element of privacy. Anonymity for some smaller minority communities can be important; interpreters may come from these communities where everyone knows each other and clients may find it hard to be honest about personal issues. These problems will be avoided with OPI as no visual connection is made.

Flexibility

Without the need to get together physically, VRI can be hugely flexible. There’s no need to worry about distance or travel logistics for you or the customer.

Personal

You may be forgiven for thinking that remote interpreting was not as personal as the in-person option, but in fact this is not the case. Facial expressions can be clearly seen and body language can easily be read. The personal touch is still very much apparent and easy to convey to your customer; something that is so important when establishing relationships.

Types of Remote Interpreting

Video Remote Interpreting 

This is the perfect solution for any business wanting to offer a safe and confidential conversation between different parties that require an interpreter. All parties can be independent of one another, making location irrelevant. This is a facility that is used lots in the healthcare and legal industries, but also across corporate businesses. Thanks to the visual element of VRI, this service is also a benefit when liaising with people that require sign language. Indeed, most language obstacles can be overcome with VRI.

Over the Phone Interpreting (OPI)

Another excellent way to access language interpretation, this option allows an individual or business to gain access to an interpreter through an app on their smartphone. This on-demand service can be accessed immediately and it is more cost effective than in-person interpretation – and, of course, much more convenient. 

Here at Bilingual Connections, we are committed to providing efficient, secure and professional language solutions for a range of businesses, healthcare providers, schools and any other companies that may need our help. We provide guidance on setting up Video Remote Interpreting and accessing apps, as well as offering advice on how to get the most from your meetings. 

We have a team of professional and qualified interpreters who have years of relevant experience. They are on hand to help you and your clients feel at ease while achieving the desired outcomes from every remote communication. Get in touch for more information; we would love to hear from you.