How to Carry Out Audio Transcription

by | Last updated Oct 31, 2022 | Published on Feb 3, 2015 | Audio Transcription

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When it comes to audio transcription of interviews and discussions, its applications in the field of research are immense. Research involves asking people for opinion and insight, and efficient audio transcription can help the relevant data in the conversation to be captured and used for research.

Deciding the Audio Transcription Methodology

Audio TranscriptionAudio transcription is important for research purposes. But it isn’t easy. It requires technology and a methodology. The latter must be selected based on your reason for the transcription, or the information you require. Once this is decided, your transcription workflow can be streamlined. Though you may not need all of the text but just the outline it would be better to transcribe everything before making evaluations unless you only need the bare basics, in which case it could save the time and effort.

Here are some of the examples of the kind of data capture that is usually required for research from discussion or interview transcription:

  • Speech recordings with only relevant quotes and information that would answer specific questions transcribed
  • Transcribing thematic information alone – data relating to the themes on which your research is conducted
  • Transcription capturing tones such as sarcasm, pauses, interactions and emotional reactions of the speakers involved

As mentioned above, these requirements vary based on the kind of research you need to carry out. When it comes to audio transcription for legal or police investigation purposes though, the data required to be transcribed would likely involve every bit of information plus tones and expressions of individuals involved.

Time Required for Transcription

The time required for transcription varies based on what all, and how much you need to get transcribed. Your typing skill can be the determining factor, particularly its relation to the speed at which people are speaking in the audio recording. A standard measurement is 5 to 6 hours for transcribing every one hour of speech. If that sounds a lot, remember that it needs to include listening, typing, proofreading and managing various software. Fatigue could also set in and you may need to take periodic breaks.

You could save more time by using the clipboard to simply paste words or phrases you know are likely to repeat themselves often in the recording. This way you can paste them whenever they appear rather than typing them. This can save time and energy. Keeping the audio speed low while it plays can help you transcribe better and save more time since you wouldn’t have to stop/start the audio every time.

Outsourcing Works Better

Of course, all this transcription work could significantly account for your time and energy whether you may be a student or an attorney. For law firms, setting apart staff for transcription purposes could be resource sapping while students and research scholars have to do it themselves. Outsourcing to an experienced transcription company can ensure more accurate turnout at a competitive price though.

Experienced legal transcription companies provide audio transcription services to attorneys, courts and law firms. They can also serve the needs of research scholars and students in an economical manner. Not only do they have trained and experienced transcribers and editors out there, but they also use smart technologies and streamlined workflow processes to deliver better results promptly.

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