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Is VRS the same as VRI?

Technology never fails to amaze us with its wonders. Thankfully it has now extended its virtues to bring the hearing and the deaf individuals on the same communication grounds.

Yes, the hearing and the deaf can now easily interact using the three outstanding telecommunication services used by hundreds and millions of users today. It is considered commonplace in the US today.

What else can be more exciting to see, deaf or people hard of hearing interact effectively and lead the life they deserve?

You must now be going bananas to know more details. So, let’s now get right into it.

What are the three primary telecommunication services for the deaf?

The three telecommunication services are:

  1. Video Relay Service (VRS)
  2. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)
  3. Video Remote Interpretation (VRI)

Among them, VRS and VRI have increasingly gained popularity based on their usefulness during the outbreak of the covid-19 epidemic. But, unfortunately, these are video-based services and are thus often confused with each other despite being entirely different.

However, a sensible individual must know the differentiating factors between the two.

If you are interested in finding out, look at the next section of this informative article.

What is the main difference between VRS and VRI?

VRS is a 24/7 free service introduced by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) to aid a three-way communication directed from the deaf person to the interpreter to the hearing person and vice versa.

In this telecommunication service, the deaf person, the interpreter, and the hearing person are all present at different locations. A standard telephone and a visual screen are enough for supporting a Video Relay Service.

On the other hand, VRI is a fee-based service whereby the hearing person and the deaf person are present at the exact location. These two individuals connect to an interpreter using a visual screen and seek his services for interacting with one another. For this type of video interpretation, the deaf person or the hearing person must first make an appointment with an interpreter.

However, it is reported that Video Remote Interpreting is not equally effective in all cases, especially when the deaf individual clearly has difficulty watching the visual screen.

Isn’t that a noticeable difference? Hope you got it and keep in this in mind.

Are you wondering now about the cost of trying these services? Well, we have got you covered. So keep reading; you are about to find what you are looking for.

Note: Both VRS and VRI can be used for client-based meetings or patient walk-ins when there is a significant language barrier between the interacting parties. A video device and Internet connectivity are a must for both services.

Is VRS/VRI expensive?

VRS is free of cost service, and thus the service itself has no expense at all. VRI is famous for its utility in the health and business sector, and the subscribed entity is always held responsible for paying its costs. However, it is often critiqued for its high price and is clearly considered expensive by the hiring entity.

Basically, VRI services are charged according to a per-minute rate. An additional cancellation fee or traveling charge is also sometimes included in the amount to be paid.

Yes, pre-paid packages are available at discounted rates and are often preferred by entities who need to hire these services frequently. These packages save the hiring entity from bearing the traveling cost or the cancellation fee. This further relieves you from the extra last-minute charges and lets you get things done without bearing the added stress of the minimum time allowed per session.

Precisely, yes, Video interpretation service is expensive. Still, you can sensibly opt for some package that promises to save your hard-earned money without letting you compromise on any of its features or advantages.

Are you now thinking about hiring the best Video Interpretation service provider? Search around. You will find many reliable options online. Do not forget to go through their testimonials and reviews. Only then will you be able to make a good decision and choose etranslationservices.com as the best Video Interpretation service provider 🙂

Did you know? Interesting facts about VRS and VRI

There is absolutely no rocket science behind the entire procedure of video interpretation, but there are some interesting facts that you may want to know before signing up for either of these telecommunication services.

Let’s talk about them in detail.

  • A free test call is a must when you sign up for VRS or VRI. It is to ensure that there is no quality, connectivity or audibility issues. It further confirms that the connected devices are properly working without any technical or mechanical problems.
  • VRS was first started in the 1990s, while VRI is a recent and popular introduction comparatively.
  • The user can use any device: a laptop, a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, or even a desktop that aids video connectivity via the internet.
  • For video interpretation, the interpreter must be highly skilled. Therefore, choosing a certified organization such as etranslationservices.com or a professional individual is highly recommended. It will save you from doubting the correctness of the interpretation later on.
  • VRI is not an ideal option for people with mental disabilities. It is not even recommended for children or for the aged who are facing cognitive dysfunctions. Furthermore, it is legally prohibited to use this service for complicated medical procedures or for matters where physical presence is mandatory.
  • VRI can save money only if the hiring entity can use the equipment without any difficulty. The hiring entity has subscribed to a prepaid package and has actually availed its numerous utilities.

By now, you must have a good understanding about VRS and VRI in detail. However, if you plan to opt for either of these services, do not forget to rely on a skilled individual. These video interpretation services are a blessing in a time of need, especially when. Still, there SOPs like social distancing and staying-at-home have become a new normal.

eTS offers you the best interpreting solutions anywhere you are

eTranslation Services serves the international community, domestically or offshore. Our native-speaking interpreters for on-site, over-the-phone interpreting, and video remote interpreting live in-country. It’s your assurance that you will have access to an interpreter anytime you need one, wherever you may be located. Our interpreters are highly skilled linguists and professionally trained subject matter experts. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us whenever you need interpreting services by calling (800) 882-6058 or sending an email to [email protected].

 

 

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