If you are looking for an online transcription service company, there are several important factors that you should keep in mind before choosing the company that you will hire. Even though there are many providers and a variety of services, you will find that the quality of the finished product can vary depending on the company that you choose.
Here are the factors to consider when hiring a company for online audio transcription:
1. Quality of Service
Look for an online transcription company that has a good track record and high-quality service. Ask about the accuracy rating and look for testimonials or reviews from other clients that have hired the company that you are considering.
Make sure that the transcriptionists are experienced, because higher levels of experience will increase theaccuracy of the transcription. Additionally, you might need to find a service that meets specific certifications and training for your industry. For example, medical transcriptions should be done by a transcriptionist familiar with HIPAA updates and regulations.
2. Clear Pricing Structure
There is nothing more frustrating than having extra fees and costs that are added to a project. Learn about the pricing in advance, and make sure that it is clear about the costs that you can expect for the product. Many transcription service companies will charge a flat amount per minute of audio, which makes it easy to plan your budget.
Find out if there is a different price for video transcription and audio transcription so that you have a clear pricing structure for the types of files that you will be providing. Many companies charge the same price for these services, but it is always a good idea to double check in case the prices are different depending on the files that you provide.
3. Are Quality Assurance Services Available?
Some transcription companies include quality assurance in their services, to ensure that the finished
transcribe audio file is of high quality. It can be beneficial for a second service provider to go through the
audio, especially if the files are hard to understand. Find out if a full review of the audio will be completed, or if it is just random spot-checking to look for potential errors
4. Turnaround Time
How long will it take for your transcription to be complete? Check on the anticipated turnaround time for the project, and understand that sometimes it might be worth paying a premium for faster service. Ask about the file delivery process, so that you don’t hold up the delivery because it takes you too long to provide the files that are needed.
5. Do Your Research
Once you have narrowed down your choices to the transcription service company that you are interested in hiring, make sure to do a little research about the company. A quick online search can help you learn more about the company and their reputation so that you can rest assured that you will be working withhigh-quality service providers.
Conclusion
The key, as always, is to research your companies. Email for a transcription quote. If the pricing is transparent already, email still to ask about audio turnarounds and to see an example of a transcribe audio files . If you do your research and examine the customer testimonials from the transcription businesses, it is pretty easy to sort the dirt cheap scoundrels from the pleasantly affordable folks.
My name is Elaine and I'm a self proclaimed "do it yourself addict". I am the mother of the best 11 year old boy ever and my husband's not too shabby either