A big thank you to Gaynor Paynter, Typewrite Transcription and Typing Services CC (www.typewritetranscription.co.za) for the interesting and informative article below.

What is Transcription?

Very I often, I’m asked what transcription is.  Transcription is the transferring of recorded audio material into the written word. What does this mean in layman’s terms? It means that any material that needs to be documented can be recorded and transcribed, either live or at a later stage. Transcription can be done from analog or digital material although the trend is moving towards digital currently.

What is a Transcriptionist?
A transcriptionist is a person who transcribes the recorded material into the written word, usually making use of a computer, headphones, speakers and digital or analog playback equipment.

What Material Can Be Transcribed?
Material that can be transcribed includes but is not limited to:  Speeches, notes, interviews, conferences, medical reports, forensic reports, letters, articles, website content, press releases, case reports, disciplinary enquiries, investigations and media reports.

Who can Make Use of A Transcriptionist?
Almost anybody can. People who can make use of transcriptionists include but are not limited to: Journalists, students, entrepreneurs, company directors, insurance agents, forensics teams, secret shoppers, lawyers, doctors and other medical professionals, production companies, government officials, university professors and other researchers, strategic consultants, translators, and corporates.