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Transcription vs Translation: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
Transcription and translation both involve converting information from one format into a slightly different one. However, they are two separate services that are often confused with one another. Knowing the difference between these two services can save much time and effort when looking for a partner to help you and ensure what you receive is actually what you anticipated.
In this blog, we explore the differences between the two and when each service is required.
What is transcription and when to use this service:
Transcription is the process of converting audio or video recordings into text and is completed in the same language as the original audio or video recording. Transcription is useful when you need to create a written record of spoken content, such as interviews, lectures, or meetings. Transcription can be used to create subtitles or captions for video content or to create a more accessible version of podcasts or other audio-visual recordings, especially for those with hearing difficulties. Transcription can also be useful in settings such as legal or medical, where accurate transcripts of conversations or other recorded events are required.
What is translation and when to use this service:
Translation is the process of converting written or spoken content from one language to another. This service is useful when you need to translate documents, websites, or other written content for an audience that speaks a different language. Translation can also be used to translate transcripts of audio or video content into a different language. This is particularly important for businesses that operate internationally or for those who want to reach a wider audience.
Who uses a transcription and translation service?
Many different types of individuals and businesses require transcription and translation services. Here are a few examples:
- Researchers: Researchers in various fields, such as medicine, social sciences, and business, often use transcription services for interviews, focus groups, and other research-related audio or video content. Translation services may also be required when sharing this information internationally or if the research was conducted in another language.
- Legal professionals: Solicitors and law firms use transcription services for depositions, court hearings, and other legal proceedings. In our multicultural society, it may be the case that people of other nationalities are involved, and so translation and interpretation services provide clarity for all parties.
- Business professionals: Executives, managers and entrepreneurs may use transcription services for meetings, conference calls, or dictations, supported by translation services for businesses that operate in more than one country.
- Media professionals: Journalists, TV producers and podcasters often use transcription and translation services for interviews and audio/video content so that their material can be more accessible to a wider audience.
- Academic institutions: Colleges and universities may use transcription and translation services for academic content that is recorded as either audio or video. This increases accessibility for those who are hard of hearing and can help with recall and understanding for students across the world.
- Government agencies: Transcription and translation services for speeches, press briefings, or other audio/video content can help local and national authorities provide accessible information to the public and other relevant organisations, in multiple languages as required.
- Individuals: These services are not just for corporate or official purposes. Many people may use transcription and translation services for personal projects, such as certificates, family history or memoirs.
Conclusion:
In summary, transcription and translation are two different services that serve different purposes. If you have spoken content that needs to be converted into written text, transcription is the service you need. If you have content that needs to be translated into a different language, translation is the service you need. And where international collaboration is needed, you may need a combination of transcription and translation for the same project .
McGowan Transcriptions are specialists in multiple voice transcription, and we partner with a translation specialist who offers over 250 language combinations. So call us now on 0800 158 3747 or email office@mcgowantranscriptions.co.uk with details of your project and see how we can help.
January 2024
