BOLD TRANSCRIPTION
frequently asked questions
What types of files do you transcribe?
Bold transcribes any audio or video you need converted to text: interviews, academic lectures, podcasts, YouTube videos, tutorials, focus groups, webinars, oral histories, religious sermons, speeches, therapy sessions, etc. You name it.
Can you explain turnaround time?
Turnaround time is per file with a standard file generally between 30 to 75 minutes in length. Each large and ongoing project is different. Just let me know your deadlines and details so I can make sure your needs are met.
What is the difference between standard, strict, and custom verbatim?
Standard verbatim (most common) omits all non-word utterances (uh, um), stutters, false starts, and heavily repeated filler words (like, you know, so, actually, basically) that do not contribute to the meaning of the sentence and distract readers from the overall text. Standard verbatim produces the smoothest and most visually appealing transcript. Strict verbatim includes every utterance exactly as it is spoken. In both standard and strict, common slang terms are always edited; for example, gonna is changed to going to, etc. Custom verbatim is your specific set of preferences.
Do you accept ongoing projects?
Absolutely. This is the bulk of what I do. I enjoy long-term relationships with my clients. I'm here to make your life easier and maintain continuity across all your written content. This is also a great opportunity to refer friends or colleagues and receive 10% each time.
Why choose human transcription over AI?
In my experience, these are some of the reasons why people continue to choose single-person human transcription over AI for their professional needs and personal brands. Accuracy is very low with AI, especially with multiple speakers often speaking over each other, if someone is a fast speaker, has an accent or dialect, or if there are any audio quality issues. The more specialized the subject of the audio things like technical jargon and abbreviations are misinterpreted. Human nuances of language -- homonyms and homophones, sarcasm or humor, emotional ques, constantly evolving slang, stutters, false starts, pauses, incomplete sentences, filler words -- can't be dealt with appropriately. AI transcripts always require heavy human editing since it cannot label and distinguish speakers or properly punctuate. Even with someone editing it, once the person is already looking at all sorts of inaccuracies, the audio isn't mentally processed in the same way as from a blank slate, and the intended meaning can be unclear, diminished, or even inaccurate. With one person working consistently on your content, your unique voice and personality is captured making it more appealing and engaging to your audience. This is also the only way to ensure any kind of grammatical continuity across content. With the quality and consistency produced from human transcription, your content is polished and ready to use when you need it.
Do you offer other services?
Yes. I've assisted clients with everything from editing and proofreading to data management. Because I have already spent so much time with your content, clients sometimes ask me to help in other related tasks. If you would like to further collaborate in any capacity, just ask.
Will you sign a confidentiality agreement to transcribe sensitive content?
Yes. Files are stored in a secure, password-protected location with anti-virus software in place. They will be retained until payment is completed and then permanently deleted.
What are your hours of operation, and where are you located?
While turnaround time is generally based on business days, I do work weekends and can accommodate your deadlines as needed. If you need to reach me, I am always available. Rest assured that if you order a 5-7 day turnaround, but I am able to complete it sooner, you will receive your transcript ASAP at the price you ordered.
Bold operates out of California.
What payment methods are accepted?
Conveniently pay directly through your invoice. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and Apple Pay are securely accepted through professional accounting software. If you prefer PayPal or need to set up payment directly through your university or company, this is fine as well.