Author: Julia Hallas, Doctoral Candidate
Recently I’ve started gathering data for my study. Due to the time factor, I decided not to transcribe my own focus group sessions and interview data. One of my supervisors suggested I give http://transcribeme.com a go. TranscribeMe is an online transcribing service. I have used them for all of my transcription work so far and their service has been excellent.
To use their service, download their app to your smartphone. Please note that it is only the app that is free. Record the focus group session or interview using the app. The file is uploaded for transcribing at the press of a button. Use the menu to select various options. For example, state the number of speakers in the session and choose between 1-7 days to get it transcribed. You will need to provide credit card details. A useful service is their price page, where you can get an immediate quote for a transcription. But be aware that their prices are in US dollars.
While I use the TranscribeMe app to record my data gathering sessions, I also have a backup recorder. As a backup, I use an iPod with the iTalk app. It’s free and it’s really good.
What are you using for recording and who transcribes your data? We’d love to hear your experiences.
Hi Julia
I would assume Transcribeme use a computer software programme to transcribe the audio to text.
So my question is; what is the accuracy, especially with ‘Kiwi accents’? I would also assume any cross-over talking would not come out correctly – is this correct? Lastly can you give any indication of the cost per minute of transcription?
Thanks
Hi Erik,
My understanding is that the software breaks the audio file into 15 sec bits and sends them out to their worldwide network of people transcribers. (One transcriber is a undergrad who works in our office). The software then recompiles the text file. Transcribing only 15 secs of a file leads to better accuracy and confidentiality. A moderator runs through the final text file it to check everything is ok.
From my experience the accuracy is about 99% and it’s only specialist vocab that can be a problem. If there is crosstalk, they transcribe what they hear and the code [crosstalk] is inserted, as is [chuckles] for laughter.
When uploading a file for transcribing, you would select kiwi accent. However, if your interviewee is not kiwi, you would choose their specific accent.
Cost is US$1.99 pr min. I suggest you go to the website and the pricing page and see what a quote would be. They also do discounts if you are getting quite a few files transcribed.
Cheers, Julia
Any suggestion for interviews already recorded, not by this app?
Hi Diana. I am pretty sure that you can upload files not created in their app. Check out their website. Sorry about the slow reply. Cheers, Julia