Interpreting

Simultaneous interpreting, often called conference interpreting, is a highly complex process in which speech is transmitted into another language in near real time. During simultaneous interpreting, interpreters are actively listening while analyzing, restructuring and reproducing the original information in the target language. This process requires the utmost attention and concentration, which is why two simultaneous interpreters usually sit in a soundproof interpreting booth and work in turns.

Whispered interpreting, also called chuchotage, is a special form of simultaneous interpreting for one to two listeners at most. The interpreter sits or stands in the very close vicinity of the person for whom the interpretation is being provided and whispers the interpretation to that person. The biggest disadvantage is that interpreters are unable to hear the original speech very clearly. (They work without a headset and are unable to block out all the background noise in the room, which they hear in addition to the speaker and their own voice.) The other participants in the meeting/conference also often find the interpreter’s constant whispering distracting and bothersome.

This form of interpreting is suitable for city tours, factory visits or museum visits for smaller groups. With these mobile equipment solutions, the listeners wear headphones with small receivers and the interpretation is spoken into a wireless microphone. By no means should a tour-guide interpreting system be used as a substitute for interpreting booths at larger events. The disadvantages are the same as for whispered interpreting (background noise, bothersome distractions for other participants).

Consecutive interpreting is the oral transmission of a speech following the delivery of the original text, usually with the help of notes. The interpreter’s note-taking technique serves as a memory aid and is ideally not language-related and therefore not to be confused with shorthand. The number of consecutive interpreters required depends on the level of difficulty and the duration of the assignment. Consecutive interpreting is primarily suitable for table speeches and welcoming speeches, weddings, bilateral negotiations, etc. The interpreters are more noticeably involved in the communication process as they are also present on stage or at the negotiating table, etc. The biggest disadvantage, however, is the time factor: As the interpreting process takes place separately from the original speech, interpreting in consecutive mode effectively doubles the time required for the event.

RSI is the term used for conference interpreting in simultaneous mode via special video conference interpreting platforms. Participants, speakers and interpreters do not all have to be in the same place. They can be distributed across a number of locations, making possible a variety of solutions. If the entire interpreting team is working in the same place in conventional booths and is supervised by conference interpreting technicians, this is called a hub. This is the most reliable solution and also the most secure (in terms of data protection). However, another possibility is having the team interpret via RSI platforms from their home offices. A number of aspects must be taken into account to ensure the success of interpretation using RSI platforms. When in doubt, we would be happy to advise you.