Consider the format you save your audio/video files when forwarding to your transcriptionist.
Although we here at CLK Transcription can handle all downloadable formats, some formats need converting before transcription, and others are so large they take time to download, log, and upload.
For example:
- If you don’t need embedded time code, consider saving in mp3 format. Transfer speeds for video formats vary, and some can take a considerable amount of time just to reach us.
- If recording on Apple product, be sure to save in format that plays on other devices. An Apple m4a format will only play one side of the conversation unless converted in iTunes to a m4a version playable on other devices.
- Files such as WebEx files that require their own player/program to be downloaded also take a great amount of time to transfer – it is just the nature of the beast. We can download and convert, but again, additional processing time is needed.
Currently CLK Transcription has 150 files to download in mov format from one client. At the 1 hour to transfer for every 5 files due to size, this could be interesting since the client wants them back in 24 hours. Yes, the client had the same issue uploading to us.
Yeah, that expected TAT is not something the rock star CLK Team can handle right now. Even though they only total about an hour of audio to transcribe, download time is a factor. We could say, “yes”, but why blow a deadline for a client? We are moving them ASAP, but at least they have a realistic time frame to work with, and having great communication with our clients allows us to better serve their needs, and allows them to expedite their future projects as well.
Many other transcriptionists/transcription companies do not have the ability to convert due to cost of or knowledge/experience with programs, and some may not have the bandwidth to handle a load like this, along with other work arriving during any given day.
Again, CLK Transcription can handle any downloadable format and has no bandwidth issues to consider, but keep in mind, additional processing time is needed in cases like this, making a priority status not always realistic.
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