It will come as no surprise that simultaneous interpreters require excellent sound quality for their work. There are also a few other things to bear in mind. We have compiled a list of key requirements to help ensure reliable simultaneous translation during your video conference.
Before your event
Which video conferencing platform?
Choosing the right technical solution is crucial for your event to run smoothly. While not every web conferencing platform supports multi-channel audio or seamless language switching, there are workarounds for each platform. We can advise you on selecting and integrating the optimal solution, whether on Zoom, MS Teams, or another platform.
Your preparation
If you are hosting the meeting, it is important to familiarise yourself with the correct assignment of interpreters on the respective platform and the technical processes involved. A contact person should also be available during the meeting to answer questions and provide technical support. Alternatively, we can take care of hosting and technical support for you, leaving you to focus on other things.
Preparation of participants
To ensure a smooth translation process, participants must meet the following requirements:
- External microphone (e.g. headset with microphone, clip-on microphone, podcast microphone)
- No Bluetooth headsets or microphones; wired devices only
- One microphone per person (no shared devices)
- Quiet room with little echo
- Stable internet connection
- Sound check with all active participants before the event
Preparation of interpreters
Please provide us with all the necessary information in advance, including the agenda, names, presentations, and, in particular, anything that is to be read out during the meeting (e.g. the chairperson's notes).
Technical test
Conducting a thorough technical test in advance can prevent unnecessary stress on the day of the event. For the best results, it is advisable for interpreters, the technical host, and the meeting chair to participate in the test, so they can familiarise themselves with the setting. This enables the optimisation of audio quality and settings, and the timely resolution of technical problems.
During your event
Appointment of a contact person or technical moderator
A person has already been appointed to oversee the technical aspects of the event, and will be available to answer any questions or resolve any issues. They will open the meeting at least 30 minutes before the start to allow time for the interpreters to be assigned and any final technical adjustments to be made. This ensures that everyone involved can start the event feeling prepared and relaxed.
Briefing of participants
At the beginning, participants should be given a brief overview of where to find the interpreting function and how to activate it. It is also helpful to provide a few tips on how to behave in interpreted online meetings, such as muting yourself when you are not speaking, speaking clearly, and not speaking too quickly. If desired, our interpreters can also provide this briefing several languages.
You are now ready to go!
Everything has been set up and everyone involved is prepared. Active contributors know how to achieve good audio quality, participants know how to use the interpreting service, and interpreters are ready to start. With a clear structure, reliable technology, and professional support, nothing stands in the way of a successful multilingual online meeting!
Do you require simultaneous translation for your video conference?
Please feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist you.
