How RSI Keeps Global Teams Connected In Real Time
Over recent years, remote working has soared, both in terms of popularity and necessity. This development has enabled teams from every corner of the globe to work together, without the need for time-consuming and expensive travel. While technology may have helped erode travel boundaries, has it also assisted in removing language barriers? Read on to learn more about remote simultaneous interpretation – or RSI – and find out exactly how it keeps global teams in the loop – and in real time.
What Is Remote Simultaneous Interpretation?
First, it’s worth examining what remote simultaneous interpretation is. RSI is a form of interpretation that means the linguists can still translate spoken language without being physically present at the meeting, webinar or conference. Crucially, this happens in real time, meaning interactions can happen without awkward pauses or inconvenient delays. It allows any virtual event – including conferences and large-scale meetings – with multilingual participants to run on time, without any communication obstacles. Moreover, since remote and hybrid models of working have proliferated worldwide, RSI is one more piece in the puzzle allowing greater freedom and flexibility in the workplace.
RSI Vs. Traditional Interpretation: What’s The Difference?
Traditional interpretation and RSI draw on the same linguistic skills and interpreting processes, but with RSI, the interpreter works remotely instead of traveling to the location of the meeting or event. To allow this to happen, RSI interpreters work from their usual place of work, using relatively simple interpreting equipment such as headsets and digital platforms to enable them to follow the conversation or speech, before translating it and orally delivering it in the required language.
As is the case with in-person simultaneous interpretation, this happens in real time, which means no frustrating pauses or delays, during which the flow of speech could be interrupted. It’s worth mentioning here that another type of interpretation exists, known as consecutive interpretation. This does not happen in real time but instead, the interpreter makes notes and then translates them into the target language while the dialog stops. RSI, however, does take place in real time, making it ideal for seamless communication during meetings or other multilingual online events.
Is RSI More Expensive Than Traditional Simultaneous Interpretation?
Another difference between traditional interpretation and RSI is that the traditional model relies on more equipment, simply because an on-site interpreter needs additional kit such as soundproof booths to eliminate background noise and interference. There will likely also be infrared systems and radio frequency devices, as well as CCUs, transmitters, and mixers. None of this is required for RSI, which means it usually works out to be a more cost-effective option.
In addition, there are no travel-related costs involved. As such, it allows teams from any part of the world to collaborate, as they are no longer dependent on the physical proximity of an interpreter in the required language pair. Language truly is no obstacle thanks to this technology!
Choosing The Right RSI Provider For Your Team
Once you’ve decided that RSI is the best solution for you and your team, it’s important to choose a provider that can deliver. Several factors influence this decision, including finding a translation agency that offers the language pair(s) that you require. Look for an agency with a proven track record in interpreting services, as well as certifications such as ISO 9001 or ISO 17100, which signify rigorous vetting and recruitment processes, in addition to strict confidentiality procedures.
In summary, RSI is a helpful solution for keeping international teams connected, whatever their time zones or languages. It allows us to work with the right individuals for the role – wherever they may be, irrespective of their native language!
