And what these differences mean for you.
You've got a speech transcription project on your hands and you're not quite sure how to approach it. What are the differences between different types of transcription? How do I know which one I need? It's not always easy to make a choice when you find yourself in an unfamiliar field. No problem, we're here to shed light on the different types of transcription that exist and clear up any confusion.
The choice between the types of transcription to be used depends, in fact, essentially on how you will use the content once it has been transcribed. To help you make the right decision, let's take a look at the features and common uses of each existing transcription type.
Full transcript
Full transcription, also known as verbatim transcription, is a word-for-word transcription of spoken language.
It captures everything the speaker says, including filler words like "ah", "uh" and "um", hesitations, throat clears, incomplete sentences and so on. It also includes pauses, laughter and other sounds, all of which are expected elements of spoken language.
When to use verbatim transcription?
The verbatim transcription is generally the most expensive type of transcription, as it takes longer to produce.
However, it is considered a valuable tool for market research, job interviews, police investigations and court cases. In all these situations, the behavior (verbal and non-verbal) and reactions of the interviewee are just as important as the words spoken.
Sample verbatim transcript
Here's an example of a word-for-word transcription in action:
"A lot of people think they want a strict" word-for-word transcription because it's more expensive or, uh... you know, because it's one of the types of transcription they've heard of before... but, uh, what they really want is an "intelligent" transcription. intelligent" transcriptionedited edited" transcription or a paraphrased" translation.. uh, the strict" word-for-word transcription or the word-for-word transcription can be quite, uhm... difficult to read... you know..."
Intelligent transcription
Intelligent word-for-word transcription adds a layer of filtering to the transcription process to extract meaning from what has been said.
The intelligent transcription of the verbatim omits all the "heuu pis tsé", and other onomatopoeia, as well as laughter and pauses that unnecessarily lengthen the speech.
The transcriber makes a slight revision to correct sentences and grammar, and eliminates irrelevant words or phrases.
When should you use intelligent transcription?
The intelligent transcription is used in scenarios where the meaning of what has been said is more important than the exact wording used.
For example, intelligent word-for-word transcription is useful for transcribing medical diagnoses or business presentations. In these cases, there's no need for every pause or autocorrection.
Example of intelligent transcription
Here's an example of intelligent transcription in action:
"A lot of people think they want a strict" verbatim transcription because it's more expensive or because it's one of the types of transcription they've heard of before. What they really want is "intelligent" transcription. intelligent" transcriptionedited edited" transcription or a paraphrased" translation. The strict" word-for-word transcription "or true" word-for-word transcription "can be quite difficult to read."
Edited transcript
In this type of transcription, a complete and precise script is formalized and edited for greater legibility and clarity.
When to use the edited transcript
The edited transcription can be a good choice if you intend to publish the transcribed content or have it translated into foreign languages. It is often required by speakers or conference organizers who need the content to be formally edited.
Example of an edited transcript
Here's what an edited transcription might look like:
"A lot of people think they want a verbatim transcription because it's more expensive or because it's one of the types of transcription they've heard of before. What they really want is either an intelligent" transcriptionor an edited" transcriptionor a paraphrased" translation. The strictly verbatim transcription can be difficult to read.
What type of transcription do I need?
As mentioned above, the choice of transcription type depends on how it will be used.
Contact us today to take advantage of our transcription services.
If you have any doubts, we'll take the time to discuss your project with you and advise you on the various options available to determine what best suits your needs.