Transcription can be a time-consuming task, so it’s crucial to have an accurate estimate of how long it will take to get your files transcribed. This way, you can plan ahead and manage expectations with confidence.
The Speed of Transcribing Audio
The speed at which transcriptions are completed is largely dependent on the type of material being transcribed. For example, a single speaker interview that’s clear and concise might only take one or two hours to complete, while complex music with multiple speakers and fast speech may take several times longer.
A transcriber’s experience level and WPM typing speed will also play a role in how long it takes to transcribe an hour of audio. Those who are more experienced and have better typing speeds tend to complete transcriptions quicker than less experienced transcribers.
Another factor that can influence how long it takes to transcribe an audio file is the quality of the recording. If the audio is muddy and difficult to understand, the transcriptionist will have to spend more time rewinding and trying to decipher what was said. This could add a lot of time to the final transcription, making it a more time-consuming and frustrating process for the transcriber.
The Number of Speakers
A large amount of speakers will also increase the length of the transcript how long does it take to transcribe 20 minutes of audio, especially if they are all talking at the same time. This is because each speaker will have to be taken into account when the transcription is finished. It can also be difficult to focus on the dialogue if there are background noises or other people talking in the same room as the speaker.
Specialized terms and proper nouns are also common in many interviews and audio files. These can take a longer time to transcribe than simple nouns because they require research and the transcriber must determine what each term means.
Specific instructions like true verbatim (when everything is transcribed exactly) and timestamps are also factors that can increase the total amount of time it takes to transcribe an audio file. The transcriber will have to be sure that the exact wording is correct and that all of the pauses, laughter, and other sounds are transcribed properly.
Lastly, the topic of the audio file can also affect the time it takes to transcribe. Students, professors and law professionals who discuss tough topics or use complicated words often face these challenges, and this can increase the overall average time it takes to transcribe an audio.
The Rate of Transcription Per Audio Minute
The rate at which transcription services pay transcribers can vary significantly, depending on the length and complexity of the files they’re completing. For example, a transcription company might charge $0.50 for each audio minute that they transcribe, while others might have a higher or lower rate depending on the time it takes them to complete their work.
In some cases, a transcription company may offer a flat rate per hour of work, which provides both the transcriber and the client with certainty about the cost. This is especially important for larger projects that involve multiple transcribers. It can also be helpful for clients who need to know the total cost before they agree to work with a transcription service.