Market leader in voice recognition software

Back in 2011, we were approached by a US‑based multinational market leader in voice recognition software with a sizeable workload problem.

Needing help with transcription, they had mass volumes of data for their world‑leading end clients in the transport and technological market sectors.

This challenging task involved high volumes of native language transcription, combined with bespoke coding patterns to transcribe along with the speech, all of which demanded highly‑skilled, acutely‑trained transcribers, proofreaders and project coordinators in many different languages.

Challenge

With volumes of several hundred thousand audio files in each project, and each audio being between 5 and 30 seconds long, a significant challenge we faced was the handling of batches of more than 200GB of data, where loading and opening files alone was eating up the limited fixed timelines of the project.
Due to the size and scale of the project, coordinating multiple time zones was an additional complicating factor, as was training our staff on the implementation of a highly complex set of coding patterns, with limited and changeable instructions as our only guidance.

Solution

We very quickly designed a bespoke software solution to instantly load audio and text files, which automated a significant portion of the process.
Our own dedicated leased fibre broadband line and extensive on‑site servers allow for secure and quick audio transfer.
Our teams operate multiple shift patterns to allow for a US‑based client and managing linguists as far away as Australia.
By operating a bespoke client‑specific coding library for each language, we allow the data to be processed quickly and in‑line with the client’s requirements.
We developed a remote‑based recruitment and training portal from which this unique method of combined translation and coding operates.

Results

Extensive and unnecessary file handling by linguists was eradicated, ensuring timelines were consistently met while still producing a high‑quality output.
Zero time wasted uploading and downloading files and therefore less admin time, speeding up return times.
No time lost through time zone difficulties, resulting in meeting tight deadlines every time.
Continued training of our linguists and project coordinators to implement and adapt to the strictest coding rules and guidelines.
Unparalleled ability and quality, delivered within extremely challenging timelines.