How to get Audio Files Transcribed

Find audio transcription services on the Internet that exactly fit your project needs. The key to success lies in finding the transcription service that can work with the audio file format you have and professionally transcribe your recorded material.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Look for for transcribers who work from audio files in a format you can provide, such as WAV, WMA or MP3 files. Look for a company's experience with transcribing material similar to yours, such as interviews, meetings or medical reports.
2. Tell the transcriber whether you want each word transcribed verbatim including "ums" and "ahs." Or, note if certain parts can be summarized or omitted, like interview questions or off-topic remarks. Limiting the transcription can save time and money.
3. Select possible transcribers and call or email a request for a quote based on the length and quality of your audio files and any special knowledge a transcriber may need, such as medical transcription certification. State how quickly you need the material turned around.
4. Specify what kind of file you need delivered to you, such as Word or Excel or a specialized format or template. Mention challenges, such as highly technical vocabulary or speakers with heavy accents. If your recordings need to be enhanced due to poor audio quality, ask if the transcription service can do that as well.
5. Make sure you get nondisclosure agreements signed and agree on other preliminary information, such as payment details, before you send the material.

Tips & Warnings

• Transcribers vary on what experience they can offer, how quickly they can return the finished document and what they may charge for rush service. Quotes can also differ based on the location of the transcription service.
• Off-shore agencies often charge considerably less than those based in the United States. However, you won't save money if the transcriptions prove unusable or need revision due to an overseas transcriber's unfamiliarity with some words used by American speakers.