Consecutive and simultaneous interpreting: what is the difference?
Tempo de leitura: 2 minutos

            Remote interpreting has been considered one of the biggest technological advancements in the world of translation. And this has intensified even more after the Covid-19 pandemic, which established measures such as the generalized social isolation. After all, communication is crucial for the exchange of food, health and other services.

            Several sectors in the market have to find new ways to add value to their work. And this couldn’t be different with translation services. So, the remote or distance interpreting sector has grown more and more. In today’s post, we will discuss what it is and how this new form of translation works.

What is remote interpreting?

            Remote interpreting happens when the interpreter is not in the same place where the event is happening. That is how it is defined by the International Association of Conference Interpreters (Associação Internacional de Intérpretes de Conferências – AIIC). That is, it is usually made by distance from the speakers and the audience listening to it.

            For this reason, it may be performed in the most diverse formats. It enabled, for example, people who don’t speak the same language to gather via satellite or Skype. Conferences are also being organized via webcasting. Or, still, the interpreter being in the place of the interview, but the audience is scattered around the world.

            This is all possible due to the various technological advancements that happened. And, with adjustments, remote interpreting has been widely used. A good example for it, besides the corporate world, is sports events. With this, large coverage of World Cups is made this way for quite some time.

Understanding how this form of translation works

            Differently from simultaneous interpreting, which requires a number of devices, remote interpreting is practical. That means that is doesn’t require a translation booth and other large devices. It uses instead portable computers, tablets and radiofrequency receivers.

            With several possibilities of applications, it is capable of establishing a stable and clear communication. Thus, it is ideal for countless events such as seminars, debates, press conferences and corporate meetings. Also, one of the advantages of this service is the privacy of participants. After all, not everyone is comfortable with not knowing a language.

            Many question the safety of remote interpreting. This is because, differently from others, it is totally performed on the internet. However, there is very intelligent software that allows data encryption. It is also able to easily notice when something is being recorded and/or archived.

            For this reason, there is no doubt that remote interpreting is here to stay. In times when we need to adapt and find new ways to perform our activities, this may be a strategic solution. So, it is seen as another opportunity for companies to enter the digital environment.

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