Understanding Transcription Prices

Every once in a while, I’m contacted by a prospective client who wants to know why my transcription services “cost so much.” I’m sure other professional transcriptionists have had to answer this same question, as most people think transcriptionists are purely glorified typists, which couldn’t be further from the truth.

Most transcriptionists, no matter their specialty, know that the average person simply can’t identify with what we do unless he or she has performed the same type of work. And no it’s not just simply typing what someone says.

Honestly, you could just type it yourself or have a family member or friend transcribe it. But the average person talks much faster than most people are able to type. A one-hour recording may take from 3 to 6 hours to transcribe depending on the quality of the recording and any technical terms involved.

Transcriptionist are trained to have an “ear” for transcribing various regional and foreign accents. They are skilled in deciphering the words of those who speak a million words per minute and those who speak slower than molasses.  They are able to figure out the words of the classic “mumblers” and the women you love to hate who have a high-pitched “little girl’s” voice.

Transcriptionists must also have a keen eye for detail and the common sense to figure out what the speaker is saying.  If you chose the right transcriptionist, he or she will often research names and industry-specific terms to reduce the number of blanks left in your final transcript and proofread the entire transcript before returning it to you.

Your transcriptionist must also demonstrate a good work ethic and finish the work by a deadline that is often difficult to meet.

All of these skills have a huge impact on transcription prices. After all, will your cousin take such care with your transcript? Is she professionally trained to do the job? Will she proofread the final product or take the time to research names and terms? Will she drop everything or work extra hours to meet your deadline? Is she really invested in producing a top quality transcript for you? Moreover, will another transcription company with lower costs be as dedicated to the quality of the final product?

Often paying for quality and peace of mind is worth the cost.