How Remote Interpretation Can Break Through Today’s Language Barriers

The world is becoming increasingly diverse and interconnected. Technology has connected people of varying cultures and backgrounds, often from opposite ends of the globe.  

However, with more people coming into contact and working together than ever, one factor can still present a significant barrier: language.  

Language barriers can prevent people from effectively communicating in professional and educational settings. Those with limited English proficiency (LEP) in English-speaking countries may need help to meet their needs in healthcare clinics and classrooms.  

To address this growing problem, remote interpretation services such as over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) and video remote interpretation (VRI) provide technological solutions. These interpretation services help meet the demand for better communication in today’s diverse climate.  

The Benefits of Over-the-Phone Language Interpretation 

Over-the-phone language interpretation, or OPI, provides real-time communication between individuals who speak different languages over a phone call. While all parties are on the line, a professional interpreter joins them to facilitate the conversation and translate messages. This can be performed in separate locations or between individuals in the same room using a speakerphone.  

To access an OPI service, clients contact the language services provider and inform them of their translation needs. The provided over-the-phone interpreter will then translate messages consecutively after each speaker finishes. OPI often offers 24/7 services. This makes it ideal for urgent situations, such as when translation is needed in a healthcare setting so that providers may communicate with their patients. 

The Benefits of Video Remote Interpretation 

Unlike OPI, video remote interpretation (VRI) connects clients with translation services over a video call. In these situations, a video-enabled device connects with an interpreter, allowing the interpreter to see and use visual cues in their translations. This is typically done with two parties connecting with an interpreter remotely in a single location. 

One noted benefit of VRI is that adding visuals allows for sign language interpretation. The interpreter’s ability to see and read body language cues provides more precise translations. Translating through an interpreter that everyone can see adds a human touch to the conversation, which is helpful in tense situations, such as when speaking with an anxious client or patient. 

The Growing Trends of OPI and VRI 

With their accessibility and convenience, OPI and VRI have become valuable tools in bridging today’s language barriers. Their prevalence can help LEP individuals receive better care and treatment in healthcare settings and achieve better educational standards in the classroom. 

Alex Leschinsky, founder of Cloud Interpreter, a remote languages services provider, discusses the trends he has seen in these services. He has particularly noticed a growth in demand for video interpretation, a three-way communication modality. 

“Especially after COVID, we’ve seen that a lot of healthcare and government services moved into remote interpretation and VRI because they use video more often than on-site,” Leschinsky states. “We see this modality is growing where the doctor connects to an interpreter and then they connect to a patient.” 

Leschinsky further notes increased interest in the potential applications of developing technologies such as AI in OPI and VRI. He also believes that growing LEP populations significantly influence the demand for remote language services. 

Possibilities for a Better-Connected World

 As populations grow more diverse and people of varying backgrounds interact with each other, many organizations search for better inclusivity and equitable communication standards. While technology has connected more people across the globe, language can still pose a barrier to these interactions.  

With OPI and VRI language services, LEP individuals can access better-quality care, education, and services. Providers such as Cloud Interpreter are helping to build a future where language doesn’t need to be a barrier between people.