Finding a reliable transcription service

Transcription services are not just for medical and legal industries. Many businesses can reap the benefits of using a professional transcription company to outsource their work, giving them more time to focus on expanding their business and concentrate on what they do best instead of being bogged down with paperwork.

There are thousands of transcription services listed on the internet, so how do you choose the right one? I have come up with a check list to help you select the right transcription company for you.

· How do they handle your files? The first thing to look for when deciding on the right transcription service is to find out what measures they take to ensure your data is kept confidential and safe. Look for a company that is HIPAA and DPA compliant and makes use of confidentiality agreements. That way you know that your files are not being compromised over the internet.

· Do they specialise? Most industries will have particular ways of doing things, along with specific technical terms and industry jargon. When selecting a transcription service, ask whether they have secretaries or typists that have experience in your line of work. They should be happy send secretary’s CVs, so that you can check.

· How fast are they when it comes to returning your emails? One of the main advantages of outsourcing to transcription services is that they are able to turnaround your files quickly. If you send them an email and they take more than a few hours to respond, it is not a good sign. You need to know that if you need your dictation or meeting to be transcribed at short notice, they can meet your deadline with time to spare.

· Do they have a contact number? Sometimes you may have specific requirements for your transcript or you may have an urgent piece of work that isn’t quite right and needs amending. They should have a contact number and provide friendly and informative customer service so you can clarify any requests or issues verbally if needed.

· Is their pricing transparent? Many companies can be a little too vague when it comes to their pricing. You should be able to get a rough price from the website and if they charge more for low quality sound files, then this should always be stated.

· Do they offer PayPal or equivalent? Websites that offer the option of using PayPal or the like, can give you piece of mind if you are nervous about sending money over the internet, even if they charge slightly more for you to use this service.