Skip to content

Transcription

Professional transcription of audio and video files, typed or handwritten documents, delivered as accurate and well-formatted Word or PDF files. Audio and video files can be uploaded to my Dropbox or Google Drive, or you can email a link to your own file sharing platform.

Recording

Audio and video transcription for interviews, meetings, board meetings, toolbox meetings, and Zoom or Teams sessions.

Te Reo Māori Transcription

Transcription of everyday Te Reo Māori used within conversations and meetings.

Legal Transcription

Transcription of legal proceedings, hearings, interviews, and workplace dispute meetings.

Medical Transcription

Medical dictation including surgical notes, patient notes, and correspondence suitable for patient file records.

Manuscript Transcription

Transcription of dictated or handwritten manuscripts and novels, formatted for editing or publication.

AI Assisted Transcription

AI assisted transcription services available on request, combining advanced technology with manual review for improved accuracy and presentation.

Best practices

Recording Guidelines for Best Results

To ensure the most accurate transcription, please follow these guidelines when providing audio or video recordings:

Before recording
  1. Choose a quiet environment: Record in a location free from background noise such as traffic, conversations, or machinery
  2. Use quality equipment: Use a good microphone or recording device. Position the microphone approximately 6 to 15 inches from the speaker’s mouth
  3. Confirm participant consent: Ensure all participants know they are being recorded, in line with New Zealand law and workplace guidelines
  4. Provide instructions, reference documents and sensitive content notice: Include any specific instructions with your files, such as verbatim or edited transcription, timestamps, speaker labels, or any special formatting requirements.
  5. Where applicable, provide a Terms of Reference for consistent name spellings, correct identification of participants, and clear question tracking.
  6. Additionally, please advise in advance if the recording contains material that may be emotionally distressing, such as sexual abuse, violence, or suicide. This allows me to prepare appropriately, but it will not affect the transcription process.
  1. Introduce participants: At the beginning of the recording, each attendee should introduce themselves. This provides a reference point for identifying each voice
  2. State dates & time: Begin recordings by stating the date and time.
  3. Try to avoid rustling papers too closely to the recording device.
  4. Speak clearly: Talk at a moderate pace, enunciate words properly, and avoid mumbling or speaking too quickly where possible.
  5. Limit overlapping speech: Only one person should speak at a time to avoid confusion.
  6. Avoid non-verbal cues: Do not rely on gestures such as nodding, shaking your head, or hand signals. All responses should be spoken aloud, for example yes or no.
  7. Manage breaks: If a break is needed, note the start time, pause the recording, and restart with the new time. This ensures accurate time referencing.
  8. Keep recordings complete: Avoid cutting out important sections or leaving long gaps. If parts are inaudible, note the approximate time.
  1. Use standard audio formats: Save recordings in widely accepted formats including but not limited to MP3, WAV, MP4, or MOV.
  2. Label files clearly: Name files descriptively, including date, topic, and participants.
  3. Share files securely: Upload audio or video files to my Dropbox or Google Drive, or provide a secure link to your own platform.
  4. Avoid unnecessary access: Only provide recordings and files needed for the task. Sensitive material should not include unrelated information, and I will only access what is required to complete the work.

Clear audio ensures faster turnaround and higher accuracy.

AI-Generated Transcripts (Optional):

For clients who want a faster, lower-cost option, AI-generated transcripts can be provided. Please read the pros and cons carefully before choosing this service:

Pros
  • Fast turnaround: AI can produce a draft almost instantly
  • Lower cost: Typically cheaper than professional transcription
  • Convenience for informal use: Suitable for personal reference or internal purposes
  • Accuracy issues: AI may misinterpret multiple speakers, accents, Te Reo Māori, or technical and legal language
  • Formatting and context: AI cannot reliably distinguish speakers, capture nuances, or properly format transcripts
  • Potential extra work: AI transcripts may still require proofreading and corrections, sometimes taking as long as professional transcription

Important note:

AI transcripts are best used for informal or internal purposes. For legal, medical, or formal documents where accuracy is critical, professional transcription is strongly recommended.

Need Help?

Contact me today