Video Remote Interpreting Services (VRI)

For over a decade, SLA's Video Interpreting Program has used the internet and video conferencing technology to make interpreting services more easily obtained. SLA has long been known for quality interpreting services; VIP brings you the nation’s best interpreters over the internet through video conferencing technology.

SLA’s Video Interpreting Program (VIP) is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Our new service hours are in direct response to client needs. “We have been pleased to note a dramatic increase in usage of remote interpreters. It is clear that our services are not only needed during regular business hours,” says SLA President & CEO, Janet L. Bailey.

Working with a Video Interpreter is just as easy as working with an on-site interpreter, except the interpreter is working from a remote location; one of the SLA offices. Video Remote Interpreters can be utilized in medical settings, business meetings, academic classes, and courtrooms.

SLA is proud to offer both on-demand availability and pre-scheduled assignments through our VIP service.

To get started you'll need:

A high speed internet connection: A hard wired network or a wireless environment. You'll need enough bandwidth to connect and transmit video at 384 kbps to 512 KBps. SLA's IT Department will provide the necessary tech support needed to resolve any IP address or firewall issues. After the initial tests are complete, SLA does offer on-going technical support packages.

AND

· A Computer-based solution consisting of:

• A Computer: Either a desktop or laptop will do, you'll need to consider the memory, processing speeds and monitor size. SLA can help you make an informed purchasing decision.
• A USB Video Camera: These cameras can be purchased off the shelf at retail locations such as Best Buy or Circuit City. SLA will share our expertise with you about different camera brands.
• Video Conferencing Software: Software that enables the computer and camera to become a video conferencing system

OR

· An All-In-One Video Conferencing Unit

Many businesses and institutions already utilize video conferencing for their meeting or distance learning needs. If a more formal video conferencing system would be better suited for your environment, we'll talk you through the pro's and con's of different types available today.

SLA's Video Interpreting Program supports the H.323 IP and H.320 ISDN conferencing platforms.

SLA VIP services are priced per minute, no minimum amount of time is required, pay for only the time you need. SLA clients utilize our Video Interpreting Services in a wide variety of ways. Infrequent users tend to prefer the flexibility of paying by the minute; more frequent requestors take advantage of competitive block pricing. Clients may also choose a flat start-up fee to lower the ongoing per minute costs. Your SLA Account Representative will work with you to design a cost-effective price plan to fit your needs. All rates are per interpreter.

For more information, to become a client or to schedule a test connection contact SLA at slavip@signlanguage.com or by phone 1-800-752-0071 v/tty.

Video Relay Services (VRS)

Video Relay Services (VRS) provide deaf and hard of hearing consumers with equal telephone access in their native sign language. Invest in the equipment to access Remote Services and use the same equipment for free interpreter access to incoming and outgoing phone calls. Learn more about VRS today!