As globalization increases and mixed-language encounters become more common, the need for interpretation services is rapidly increasing. Whether it’s a medical provider treating a Limited English Proficient (LEP) patient, a teacher meeting with a parent who speaks a different language, or a virtual business meeting between colleagues in different countries, interpretation bridges communication gaps and enables effective conversations between people who speak different languages.  

Interpretation is useful in many scenarios, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. This guide covers common types of interpretation as well as applications and best practices. It also looks at how AI is changing the landscape of interpretation services and what lies ahead.

Interpretation is the process of rendering spoken words from one language to another. An interpreter listens to the words in the language of the speaker and conveys them in the language of the listener. Interpreters are a lifeline for people in a variety of situations who don’t understand the primary language being spoken. This can include:

Interpretation is key for bridging communication gaps that can arise from language barriers. It can be performed in person, over video, or over the phone, and it can be instantaneous or with a short delay. But interpretation is more than just conveying words in a different language. Skilled interpreters are savvy communicators who understand and are able to pick up on cultural nuances, body language, and facial expressions, enabling them to convey the speaker’s intended meaning, tone, and perspective.

Translation involves written content, while interpretation involves spoken content. Translation uses computer-aided translation tools and takes place over a period of time, while interpretation happens in real time or near real time. Interpretation can happen in person (onsite interpretation) or remotely.

Did you know?

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Employment for interpreters is expected to grow 4% through 2032.

When searching for a reputable interpreter, you may wonder what parameters to consider.

Certification is required for many specialized types of interpreting, including courtroom, UN, medical, and legal. For example, medical interpreters need to be certified by the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters or the National Board for Certified Medical Interpreters.

For less specialized types of interpretation, certification is a plus, but not mandatory. Some interpreters may have studied interpretation or languages in college, taken online training courses, and/or belong to a professional organization. It’s important that an interpreter has a strong grasp of grammar and is able to pick up on subtleties in verbal and nonverbal (gestures, idioms, and other nuances).

Strong listening skills, a knowledge of cultural norms, and the ability to remain impartial are also important. Interpreters should be able to use discretion and uphold confidentiality. Finally, they should demonstrate a strong grasp of the subject area for which they will be providing services.

Consecutive Interpretation: Listening, Then Translating

In this model of interpretation, the interpreter, either onsite or remote, acts as a middleperson between two or more people.

The Process:

Consecutive interpretation works best in one-on-one or small-group scenarios where no more than two languages are spoken, including:

Consecutive interpretation does not require any equipment, and the pauses in dialogue provide time for the interpreter to think through their response, helping to ensure the highest level of accuracy. Additionally, the interpreter can ask for clarification as needed. As a downside, this type of interpretation will double the length of a meeting or encounter, as everything needs to be spoken twice. Additionally, the natural flow of the speaker is interrupted by the interpretation process.

Simultaneous Interpretation: Translating While Listening

With simultaneous interpretation, the listener hears speech in their native language just a few seconds behind the original speaker through the use of interpretation equipment.

Also called UN-style interpretation or conference interpretation, simultaneous interpretation is generally used for large conferences and meetings, or in situations where two or more languages are being spoken or the audience has mixed language requirements.

Did you know?

Using newly invented wireless technology, the first official application of simultaneous interpretation was during the Nuremburg Trials.

The Process:

Simultaneous interpretation works best for large conferences and board meetings, or in situations where two or more languages are being spoken or the audience has mixed language requirements. Think of the United Nations General Assembly where delegates from different countries speak in their native languages.

The main advantage of simultaneous interpretation is that it provides a better presenter and attendee experience vs. consecutive interpretation because there are no significant pauses in the flow of communication. However, not every interpreter is capable of performing simultaneous conference interpretation. This service requires highly trained and experienced interpreters as well as specialized equipment.

Did you know?

Simultaneous interpretation can be done remotely using a Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) platform. RSI platforms allow interpreters to work from their homes to provide interpretation in real time for events taking place anywhere in the world. This revolutionary technology mitigates the need for cumbersome interpretation booths and the fees and risk associated with interpreter travel.

Simultaneous interpreting requires high mental acuity, and it can be tiring. For any meeting expected to last more than an hour, it’s imperative to assign two interpreters per language and have them switch off every 10 to 15 minutes. Additionally, all speakers should be informed ahead of time that the meeting will have interpretation, and they should be reminded to speak slowly and clearly to allow the interpreters the opportunity to relay all of the content to the attendees.

Over-the-Phone Interpretation (OPI)

Over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) allows for two people who speak different languages to communicate on the phone with the aid of a third-party interpretation service. Once connected, the interpreter works as a facilitator for the two callers so they can converse.

OPI is a simple and convenient option that eliminates the need for on-site interpreters in many scenarios. But this method of interpretation does have some drawbacks. Depending on location, ambient noise can be an issue. It’s important to find a quiet room with minimal background noise. If you are using a cell phone, outages and dropped calls can happen. Finally, there is no face-to-face element with OPI. It cannot be used for sign language interpreting, and it does not allow for body language and facial expressions.

Best practices for OPI interpretation

• Use a phone with a reliable service and connection.

• Find a quiet room or a location with minimal background noise.
• Once connected with an interpreter, speak clearly and pause after every two to three sentences so the interpreter has time to communicate the message.
• OPI should be used as an on-demand service, not for scheduled meetings or events.

Tips for selecting a reputable OPI provider

An OPI provider should be transparent with their reporting (call connection times, languages offered/services, date/time of calls). When vetting OPI providers, ask about their interpreter training program and what quality measures they take to keep calls safe. Finally, you may opt to schedule a test call with a prospective provider.

Video Remote Interpretation (VRI)

Video Remote Interpretation (VRI) provides the remote convenience of OPI and adds a visual element. VRI is most commonly used through a phone or computer with video access and connects the caller with a third-party interpretation service. Once connected, the interpreter (based at a call center equipped with a headset and video camera) works as an intermediary between the two callers so they can communicate through video.

As with phone interpretation, VRI is low cost compared to on-site interpretation. In this model, the interpreter is able to view participants’ body language, facial expression, and cultural clues. This is an on-demand service, with no scheduling required.

• Use high-speed internet connection on a device with a good camera, microphone, and speakers.
• Try to find a quiet room or a location with minimal background noise.
• Once connected with an interpreter, speak (or sign for American Sign Language) clearly and pause after every 2-3 sentences so the interpreter has time to communicate the message.
• Remember that VRI should be used as an on-demand service, not for scheduled meetings or events.

Tips for selecting a reputable VRI provider

A VRI provider should be aware of their facial expressions, attire, and body language during video sessions. They should be transparent with their reporting (call connection times, languages offered/services, date/time of calls). When vetting VRI providers, ask about their interpreter training program and what quality measures they take to keep calls safe. Finally, you may opt to schedule a test call with a prospective provider.

Quality control is an important facet of the interpretation journey. This is especially key for businesses, as the interpreters they use become a reflection of the company’s image.

The first step in quality control is selecting qualified interpreters, preferably ones who have the necessary subject matter expertise for the scenario. For example, an interpreter with deep knowledge of finance is going to be a good fit to work with banking clients, as they will have the context and background to understand a client’s needs and pain points during an interpretation session.

The second step is pre-event preparation. While a competent interpreter is going to do their own due diligence, it’s still prudent to provide reference materials to interpreters ahead of time. Additionally, it’s best to ensure all necessary equipment has been tested, if applicable. Finally, it’s important to collect and evaluate feedback from clients. They are the ones who will be able to assess whether the interpreter has effectively performed the linguistic task at hand.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is influencing all aspects of the world, and interpretation is no exception. Many in the industry are seeing a wide range of leverage. It’s clear that AI is here to stay, although it’s not poised to take over for human interpreters anytime soon. AI-driven interpretation is not suited for content that is heavy with sarcasm, cultural nuance, or emotional content. It’s also more prone to headline-grabbing mistakes. Humans are certainly not infallible, but programmatic issues tend to have a more visceral reaction than the mistakes that are well within the expectation of a live event. 

AI-based interpretation will continue to improve and become a suitable alternative for events that fit a specific profile. At present time, there is a difference in both accountability and quality between a top-level professional interpreter and an AI-based deliverable, and no one anticipates that the UN will be using AI-interpretation anytime soon. When looking at AI-based options, it is recommended to do your diligence on both the provider and attendees to ensure that the expectations of the event are met by your service provider.