Inclusive language services are essential in a world where communication needs are more diverse than ever. Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) has emerged as a powerful solution that bridges language gaps and ensures that people who use American Sign Language (ASL) and speakers of rare or hard-to-access languages can communicate effectively.
By offering real-time interpretation with the added benefit of visual cues, VRI is making strides toward a more inclusive society where language is no barrier to connection.
In this blog, we will explore how VRI improves communication for ASL users and individuals who speak less common languages. Specifically, we will discuss the importance of visual interpretation for ASL users and how VRI captures essential non-verbal cues, the availability of interpreters for rare languages that provide on-demand interpreting services, and VRI’s role in enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities and those from marginalized linguistic backgrounds. We will also examine how VRI supports diversity, equity, and inclusion across various sectors, including healthcare, business, legal, and educational.
Importance of Visual Interpretation for ASL
For ASL users, interpretation goes beyond spoken language—it’s about conveying visual expressions and body language, elements that are central to signing. This is where VRI shines. Unlike phone interpretation, VRI allows interpreters to see and communicate via video, capturing essential non-verbal cues that are fundamental to ASL. Facial expressions, hand gestures, and body language all carry meaning in ASL, so having a visual component ensures that nothing is lost in translation.
Through VRI, ASL users can access interpretation in real-time across various settings, from medical appointments to legal consultations. VRI enables businesses and organizations to offer a communication experience equivalent to face-to-face interpreting, which is crucial for accurate understanding and building trust. This service is especially valuable when a physical interpreter might not be immediately available, providing instant access to ASL interpreters without sacrificing the quality of interaction.
Availability for Less Common Languages
Another significant benefit of VRI is its capacity to connect speakers of rare languages with qualified interpreters. Sourcing interpreters for less common languages can be a logistical challenge for businesses and organizations. Unlike more widely spoken languages, rare languages often have limited interpreter availability, especially in specific regions. VRI addresses this by providing on-demand access to a broader network of interpreters across geographic boundaries.
Imagine a hospital where a patient speaks an uncommon language in the area. With VRI, the hospital staff can quickly connect to an interpreter who understands the patient’s language, facilitating clear and effective communication. This technology is not only a convenience but a necessity in critical situations where timely interpretation can impact decisions, patient care, and even legal outcomes.
VRI also benefits corporate clients, educational institutions, and government agencies by expanding their reach to underserved linguistic communities. For speakers of rare languages, VRI offers an inclusive option that allows them to engage meaningfully and receive services that meet their specific linguistic needs.
VRI’s Role in Accessibility and Inclusivity
Accessibility is more than a buzzword—it’s a core principle of a diverse society. VRI plays a pivotal role in promoting accessibility by providing language services to underserved communities. For people with disabilities, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, or individuals who speak uncommon languages, VRI is an empowering tool that ensures they have equal access to information and services.
Through VRI, marginalized language users gain the ability to fully participate in critical interactions, whether in healthcare, legal matters, or everyday customer service interactions. This level of accessibility is invaluable in creating an inclusive environment where everyone can be heard, understood, and respected. In this way, VRI helps organizations meet their communication goals and their ethical obligations to serve all individuals equally, regardless of language or disability.
By choosing VRI, businesses demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Offering such accessible services can improve customer satisfaction, broaden a company’s reach, and build loyalty among diverse audiences. VRI is, therefore, more than a language service—it’s a bridge that connects people across language barriers, fostering inclusivity at every level.
Video Remote Interpreting is a transformative tool that expands communication possibilities for ASL users and speakers of hard-to-access languages. By combining the immediacy of real-time interpretation with the critical visual component, VRI ensures that language no longer limits understanding. Whether it’s in healthcare, business, education, or beyond, VRI empowers people from diverse linguistic backgrounds to connect, participate, and be understood.
About Morningside
At Morningside, a Questel Company, we specialize in providing professional VRI services that meet the highest standards of accuracy and accessibility. Our expert interpreters and cutting-edge technology deliver seamless language solutions that enhance communication for all. Contact us today to learn how our VRI services can help your organization foster inclusivity and improve communication across language barriers.
Richard is an accomplished business development professional with over 25 years of sales experience and a wealth of experience in the localization industry. As an Associate Director of Business Development for Localization at Morningside, A Questel Company, he is responsible for driving growth and expanding the company's client base. He has successfully helped a diverse range of clients successfully localize their products and services for global markets. Throughout his career, Richard has been recognized for his outstanding achievements in business development and proven track record of building successful client partnerships. His expertise, dedication, and strong work ethic make him a valuable member of the Morningside team.