Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our frequently asked questions for helpful answers to common inquiries!
General
Who is required to pay for interpreting services?
Businesses and community organizations are required to cover the expenses associated with sign language interpreting services. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), “Title II entities (State and local governments) and Title III entities (businesses and nonprofit organizations that serve the public) communicate effectively with people who have communication disabilities. The goal is to ensure that communication with people with these disabilities is equally effective as communication with people without disabilities.”
While simple communication, such as brief interactions between a Deaf customer and a store clerk, can sometimes be facilitated through written notes or gestures, the presence of an interpreter is essential whenever vital information is being conveyed. This ensures that information is equally accessible to all parties involved, thus safeguarding effective communication.
While simple communication, such as brief interactions between a Deaf customer and a store clerk, can sometimes be facilitated through written notes or gestures, the presence of an interpreter is essential whenever vital information is being conveyed. This ensures that information is equally accessible to all parties involved, thus safeguarding effective communication.
What is the ADA (Americans with Disabilities) Act?
The ADA, or Americans with Disabilities Act, is a civil rights law in the United States that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and public and private places open to the general public. The ADA ensures that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. It consists of five titles covering different aspects of public life, including employment, public services, public accommodations, telecommunications, and miscellaneous provisions. The ADA was signed into law in 1990 and has since been amended to expand protections and accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
What is the appropriate way to refer to a person with hearing loss?
When referring to a person with hearing loss, it's essential to prioritize respectful and person-first language. Some appropriate terms include "Deaf," "hard of hearing," or "person who is deaf or hard of hearing." It's essential to use language that acknowledges the individual first and foremost rather than defining them solely by their hearing status. Avoid terms that may be considered outdated or offensive, such as "hearing impaired,” “handicapped,” or “mute.” Always follow the individual's preference for how they wish to be referred to, as preferences may vary among individuals.
Why does my company need to provide an interpreter(s)?
Your company may need to provide an interpreter(s) for several reasons:
- Legal Compliance: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that businesses and organizations ensure effective communication with individuals with communication disabilities. Providing interpreters when necessary helps your company stay compliant with ADA regulations.
- Inclusivity: Access to communication is a fundamental right for all individuals, including those who are Deaf or hard of hearing. By offering interpreting services, your company demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all customers, clients, and employees.
- Enhanced Communication: Interpreters facilitate clear and accurate communication between individuals who use sign language and those who do not. This ensures that important information is conveyed accurately and comprehensively, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or miscommunications.
- Customer Satisfaction: Providing interpreters demonstrates a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of your customers or clients. This can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, as individuals with communication disabilities feel valued and respected by your company.
- Legal Protection: In some cases, failing to provide appropriate accommodations, such as interpreters, can lead to legal liabilities, including discrimination lawsuits. By proactively providing interpreters when needed, your company mitigates the risk of legal disputes and protects its reputation.
When do I need to use an interpreter?
You may need to provide an interpreter in various situations, including:
- Meetings and Conferences: Any gathering where individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing need to participate and understand the information being conveyed.
- Medical Appointments: Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients who use sign language is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Legal Proceedings: Providing interpreters in courtrooms or during legal consultations ensures that individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing can fully participate in legal proceedings. Sign Language interpreters in the courtroom must obtain a higher level of certification.
- Educational Settings: Interpreters are necessary in classrooms and academic settings to facilitate communication between students, teachers, and staff.
- Business Interactions: Whether it's a job interview, training session, or customer service interaction, providing interpreters ensures that individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing can fully engage.
How do I know if the interpreter(s) or CART Service I requested have been confirmed?
- Submit Request: Please submit all requests using the 3B online form.
- Confirmation Process: Once we receive the request, it will be processed, and a confirmation email will be sent, verifying your request and confirming the details.
- Managing Your Request: The confirmation email includes a cancellation link. Please use this link if you need to change your request.
What if I need to cancel my request? What is the cancellation policy?
When you book an interpreter, you're reserving their time. If you need to cancel, we may be unable to allocate that time to another customer. Any assignment canceled or changed with less than 24 hours notice will be charged for the entire block of time requested per interpreter or the minimum of 2 hours, whichever is greater in the length of time. Cancellations must be made online by clicking the "Cancel Interpreter" button in the email confirmation. An email confirmation will be sent shortly afterward. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email.
How much in advance do I need to reserve an interpreter?
We recommend booking an interpreter as far in advance as possible to ensure availability. Interpreters are in high demand, and scheduling can become challenging when requests exceed the available supply. The more notice you can provide for appointments, meetings, or events requiring an interpreter, the better. However, we understand that sometimes urgent needs arise and offer same-day requests for an additional fee of $30. In such cases, we'll do our best to accommodate your request, even with short notice. We suggest contacting us as soon as you know your interpreting needs to secure the best availability. We do our best to fulfill all requests.
Can you provide interpreters immediately?
Yes, we do offer same-day requests for interpreters, subject to availability. Please note that invoices will include $30 for all urgent and same-day requests. While we strive to accommodate Urgent/Same-Day requests whenever possible, availability may be limited, especially during peak times. We recommend booking interpreters in advance whenever feasible to ensure availability and avoid additional charges. If you urgently need an interpreter, please contact us, and we'll do our best to assist you.
How do I use an interpreter as a hearing person?
Using a sign language interpreter effectively involves a few key steps:
- Requesting an Interpreter: Contact our agency to request an interpreter for your specific needs, providing details such as the date, time, location, and nature of the assignment.
- Positioning: During the interpreted session, position yourself next to the interpreter so that the Deaf individual has a clear view of you and the interpreter. Maintain eye contact with the Deaf person while the interpreter is signing.
- Communication: Speak directly to the Deaf individual, not to the interpreter. Speak at a normal pace and volume, allowing the interpreter to convey your message accurately.
- Clarifications: If you're unsure about any aspect of the communication or need clarification, don't hesitate to ask the interpreter for assistance. They're there to facilitate effective communication for both parties.
Where should an ASL interpreter be located for a stage performance, presentation, or show?
For a show, stage performance, or presentation where an ASL interpreter is needed, it's essential to position the interpreter in a location that ensures clear visibility for Deaf and hearing audience members. Here are some considerations:
- Near the Stage: Place the interpreter near the stage or performance area where they have a clear view of the performers or presenter. This allows them to convey the content of the show or presentation accurately.
- Visible to Audience: Position the interpreter in a location visible to both Deaf and hearing audience members. This may involve placing them on or near the stage, in a designated area within the audience seating, or on a raised platform for better visibility.
- Good Lighting: Ensure the interpreter is well-lit to make their signing easily visible to the audience. Adequate lighting helps enhance communication accessibility for Deaf individuals in the audience.
- Minimal Distractions: Choose a location for the interpreter that minimizes distractions and ensures they can focus on accurately interpreting the performance or presentation.
- Consider Audience Perspective: When determining the interpreter's placement, consider the perspective of both deaf and hearing audience members. Aim to provide equal access to the interpreted content for all attendees.
How many interpreters will I need?
Interpreting requires significant cognitive and physical energy, and research indicates that an interpreter's accuracy diminishes after approximately 20-30 minutes of continuous interpretation. Moreover, the interpreter may only sometimes be aware of this decline, potentially leading to accidental transmission of inaccurate information.
Additionally, sign language interpreters are prone to repetitive motion injuries. To mitigate these risks and maintain consistent accuracy, assignments exceeding 1.5 hours typically involve two interpreters.
Our scheduling team collaborates with clients to assess the complexity and duration of each assignment. For scenarios such as meetings, trainings, workshops, or extended sessions, "team interpreting" may be necessary, with two interpreters working in 15 to 30-minute shifts. The decision to assign multiple interpreters is made at the time of booking, taking into account the assignment's physical, logistical, and cognitive demands to ensure optimal communication outcomes.
Additionally, sign language interpreters are prone to repetitive motion injuries. To mitigate these risks and maintain consistent accuracy, assignments exceeding 1.5 hours typically involve two interpreters.
Our scheduling team collaborates with clients to assess the complexity and duration of each assignment. For scenarios such as meetings, trainings, workshops, or extended sessions, "team interpreting" may be necessary, with two interpreters working in 15 to 30-minute shifts. The decision to assign multiple interpreters is made at the time of booking, taking into account the assignment's physical, logistical, and cognitive demands to ensure optimal communication outcomes.
What is a Certified Deaf Interpreter CDI?
A Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) is a professional who is Deaf or hard of hearing and has undergone specialized training to work as an interpreter. CDIs possess native proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and deeply understand Deaf culture and linguistic nuances. They are crucial in facilitating communication between Deaf individuals and others, particularly when additional support is needed due to language barriers, cultural differences, or unique communication preferences.
CDIs work alongside hearing interpreters to ensure accurate and effective communication. They provide insights into Deaf cultural norms, idiomatic expressions, and visual communication strategies. They may also assist with conveying complex or abstract concepts, clarifying misunderstandings, and enhancing overall communication access.
To become a certified deaf interpreter (CDI), individuals must complete specialized training and meet specific certification requirements established by relevant certifying bodies. CDIs adhere to professional standards of conduct and confidentiality while striving to promote inclusivity and accessibility for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in various settings.
CDIs work alongside hearing interpreters to ensure accurate and effective communication. They provide insights into Deaf cultural norms, idiomatic expressions, and visual communication strategies. They may also assist with conveying complex or abstract concepts, clarifying misunderstandings, and enhancing overall communication access.
To become a certified deaf interpreter (CDI), individuals must complete specialized training and meet specific certification requirements established by relevant certifying bodies. CDIs adhere to professional standards of conduct and confidentiality while striving to promote inclusivity and accessibility for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in various settings.
How do I request services for an event that is not accessible?
If you organize the event, please contact us, and we at 3 Bridges SLS will assist you in determining the most suitable services. If the event is organized by someone else, we suggest contacting the coordinators initially, as undisclosed accommodations may be available. If you've done so and still require further assistance, don't hesitate to contact 3 Bridges SLS.
Can hiring interpreters be a tax deduction?
Yes, in many cases, hiring interpreters can qualify as a tax deduction. Businesses and individuals can deduct interpreter expenses as business expense if the services are necessary for conducting business, such as facilitating communication with clients and employees or during business meetings. However, tax laws vary by jurisdiction, so it's advisable to consult with a tax professional or accountant to determine eligibility and any specific requirements for claiming interpreter expenses as deductions on your taxes.
How do I know if I have a qualified interpreter?
Our interpreters undergo evaluation through national or state systems to assess their skills. All 3 Bridges interpreters (excluding interns) have completed the rigorous examination administered by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters. These comprehensive tests cover knowledge of Deaf culture, ethics, and interpreting skills, ensuring a minimum level of competency.
ASL interpreters maintain their certifications through ongoing professional development. They also engage in self-study, receive mentorship, and actively participate in community events to enhance their skills and cultural competence. These activities ensure interpreters remain current with industry standards and ethical principles, allowing them to provide high-quality interpreting services.
While no single interpreter can be proficient in every situation, our scheduling team works diligently to gather details about your assignment. This allows us to match you with the interpreter best suited to your needs.
ASL interpreters maintain their certifications through ongoing professional development. They also engage in self-study, receive mentorship, and actively participate in community events to enhance their skills and cultural competence. These activities ensure interpreters remain current with industry standards and ethical principles, allowing them to provide high-quality interpreting services.
While no single interpreter can be proficient in every situation, our scheduling team works diligently to gather details about your assignment. This allows us to match you with the interpreter best suited to your needs.
If I know someone who can sign, can they just interpret the situation instead of a certified ASL interpreter?
While having someone who knows sign language may seem convenient, it's essential to understand the distinction between informal signing and professional interpreting. Certified sign language interpreters undergo extensive training and testing to ensure they have the necessary skills to facilitate effective communication in various settings. They possess fluency in sign language, cultural competency, and interpreting techniques that enable them to convey messages accurately between Deaf and hard-of-hearing signers and non-signers.
Using a non-certified individual, even if fluent in sign language, can lead to misunderstandings, inaccuracies, and ethical concerns. Certified interpreters adhere to professional standards of practice and confidentiality, ensuring a smooth and accurate exchange of information while respecting the needs and preferences of all parties involved.
In situations where effective communication is essential, such as legal proceedings, medical appointments, or business meetings, it's recommended that a certified sign language interpreter be hired to ensure accessibility and accuracy for all participants.
Using a non-certified individual, even if fluent in sign language, can lead to misunderstandings, inaccuracies, and ethical concerns. Certified interpreters adhere to professional standards of practice and confidentiality, ensuring a smooth and accurate exchange of information while respecting the needs and preferences of all parties involved.
In situations where effective communication is essential, such as legal proceedings, medical appointments, or business meetings, it's recommended that a certified sign language interpreter be hired to ensure accessibility and accuracy for all participants.
Can I request specific interpreters?
Yes, you can request specific ASL interpreters when scheduling interpreting services with our agency. We understand particular individuals may have preferences based on past experiences or personal connections. While we strive to accommodate requests for specific interpreters whenever possible, availability may vary depending on scheduling and other factors.
When making a request, please provide the name or details of the interpreter you would like to work with. We will do our best to fulfill your preference. If your preferred interpreter is unavailable, we will work with you to identify an alternative interpreter who meets your needs and preferences.
At our agency, we prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to match clients with interpreters who can best facilitate effective communication and meet the specific requirements of each assignment. If you have any preferences or special requests regarding interpreters, please don't hesitate to let us know, and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
When making a request, please provide the name or details of the interpreter you would like to work with. We will do our best to fulfill your preference. If your preferred interpreter is unavailable, we will work with you to identify an alternative interpreter who meets your needs and preferences.
At our agency, we prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to match clients with interpreters who can best facilitate effective communication and meet the specific requirements of each assignment. If you have any preferences or special requests regarding interpreters, please don't hesitate to let us know, and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
Do you provide interpreting services for deaf/blind individuals?
Yes, we offer specialized services for deaf-blind individuals to ensure effective communication access. Deaf-blind individuals have diverse linguistic needs, so our interpreting services are tailored to accommodate their unique requirements. These services may include close or low-vision, tactile, and Pro-tactile interpreting.
It's important to note that there are varying degrees of deafness and blindness among deaf-blind individuals. Some may require the assistance of a tactile interpreter, where they physically touch the interpreter to follow signs, while others may have limited vision and rely on specific lighting or interpreter placement for visual access.
Our interpreters who work with deaf-blind consumers undergo specialized training to provide effective, equal access to communication. We understand the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their sensory abilities, have access to clear and understandable communication.
It's important to note that there are varying degrees of deafness and blindness among deaf-blind individuals. Some may require the assistance of a tactile interpreter, where they physically touch the interpreter to follow signs, while others may have limited vision and rely on specific lighting or interpreter placement for visual access.
Our interpreters who work with deaf-blind consumers undergo specialized training to provide effective, equal access to communication. We understand the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their sensory abilities, have access to clear and understandable communication.
Billing
Why do I have to pay a 2-hour minimum?
In accordance with industry standards, our interpreting services include a two-hour minimum charge for every request.
How is the two-hour minimum structured?
The initial hour covers the actual interpreting services, while the subsequent hour encompasses administrative tasks and travel expenses.
How are services billed beyond the two-hour minimum?
For each assignment, billing starts with at least one hour of interpreting plus the admin/travel fee. Additional services are billed in 15-minute increments. If interpreters are dismissed early, charges will be based on the full scheduled time or the two-hour minimum, whichever is greater.
How is the admin/travel time determined?
The admin/travel time is based on the distance from Austin/Travis County to the assignment location. The rates are as follows:
How is the two-hour minimum structured?
The initial hour covers the actual interpreting services, while the subsequent hour encompasses administrative tasks and travel expenses.
How are services billed beyond the two-hour minimum?
For each assignment, billing starts with at least one hour of interpreting plus the admin/travel fee. Additional services are billed in 15-minute increments. If interpreters are dismissed early, charges will be based on the full scheduled time or the two-hour minimum, whichever is greater.
How is the admin/travel time determined?
The admin/travel time is based on the distance from Austin/Travis County to the assignment location. The rates are as follows:
- For locations within Austin/Travis County: 1 hour of admin/travel time (with a 2-hour minimum).
- For locations in Kyle, Buda, Cedar Park, Lakeway, and Georgetown: 1.5 hours of admin/travel time (with a 2.5-hour minimum).
- For locations in Bastrop, San Marcos, and Marble Falls: 2 hours of admin/travel time (with a 3-hour minimum).
How long do I have to pay for 3 Bridges invoiced services?
3 Bridges is a Net 30 Company. You will receive an emailed invoice shortly after the assignment is completed. Invoices will be sent to the email contact you listed on the billing information form when agreeing to our rates & policies. If there is a change in the billing contact information, let us know the updated information as soon as possible. We accept credit cards, checks by mail or ACH bank transfers. Payment is due on receipt. Invoices not paid within 30 days will be charged a late fee of $50 or 10% of the total balance (whichever is greater) every 30 days late. We hate late fees; please pay as agreed upon.
Why was I charged a late fee?
As a locally-based agency, 3 Bridges relies on prompt customer payments to ensure smooth operations and timely compensation for our professionals. 3 Bridges is a Net 30 Company. You will receive an emailed invoice shortly after the assignment is completed. Invoices will be sent to the email contact you listed on the billing information form when agreeing to our rates & policies. If there is a change in the billing contact information, you must update the 3 Bridges team with the new contact information. We accept credit cards, checks by mail or ACH bank transfers. Payment is due on receipt. Invoices not paid within 30 days will be charged a late fee of $50 or 10% of the total balance (whichever is greater) every 30 days late. We hate late fees; please pay as agreed upon.
Why was I billed even though the appointment was canceled?
Any assignment canceled or changed with less than 24 hours notice will be charged for the entire block of time requested per interpreter or the minimum of 2 hours, whichever is greater in the length of time. Cancellations must be made online by clicking the "Cancel Interpreter" button in the email confirmation. An email confirmation will be sent shortly afterward. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email.
Why is there travel time on my invoice?
In accordance with industry standards, our interpreting services include a two-hour minimum charge for every request.
Each assignment is billed at least one hour of interpreting plus the admin/travel fee, and all services beyond the scheduled time are billed in 15-minute increments. Early dismissal of interpreter(s) will be billed at the full scheduled time or the two-hour minimum, whichever is greater.
- One Hour of Interpreting: The first hour covers our interpreting services.
- Admin/Travel Fee: The second-hour accounts for administrative tasks and travel expenses.
Each assignment is billed at least one hour of interpreting plus the admin/travel fee, and all services beyond the scheduled time are billed in 15-minute increments. Early dismissal of interpreter(s) will be billed at the full scheduled time or the two-hour minimum, whichever is greater.
How can I pay for services?
We accept credit cards, checks by mail, or ACH bank transfers. Payment is due on receipt. Invoices not paid within 30 days will be charged a late fee of $50 or 10% of the total balance (whichever is greater) every 30 days late. We hate late fees; please pay as agreed upon.
Can I cancel my request without being charged?
Any assignment canceled or changed with less than 24 hours notice will be charged for the entire block of time requested per interpreter or the minimum of 2 hours, whichever is greater in the length of time. Cancellations must be made online by clicking the "Cancel Interpreter" button in the email confirmation. An email confirmation will be sent shortly afterward. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email.
What is a Same-Day request or Urgent surcharge?
Invoices will include a $30 surcharge for all urgent and same-day requests. We encourage our clients to schedule in advance whenever possible, as we cannot always guarantee services on short notice.
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)
What is Video Remote Interpreting?
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is a convenient and efficient way to remotely access sign language interpretation services. Through VRI, clients can connect with a qualified sign language interpreter via video conferencing technology on their computer, tablet, or smartphone. This allows for real-time communication between individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who do not know sign language. VRI can be particularly useful when an on-site interpreter is not available or practical, providing flexibility and accessibility in various settings such as meetings, medical appointments, legal consultations, and educational sessions. Our agency offers VRI services to ensure effective communication access wherever and whenever needed.
How does VRI work?
- New clients must review our VRI Rates & Policies and complete the Billing Information at the bottom of the page. Press Submit.
- You will be prompted to fill out an Interpreter Request Form. Here, you will enter the request information (date, time, and nature of request), including as many details as possible.
- Upon receipt of the online request, 3B starts working to match the job with a certified ASL interpreter, considering skill level, topic, and Deaf preference.
- 3 Bridges can generate a meeting link, or we can use a link that you provide. All parties will click the link to join the meeting at the start time.
- All attendees will join the meeting: the interpreter(s), Deaf attendee(s) and hearing attendee(s). The hearing client(s) can speak directly to the Deaf client(s), and the ASL interpreter will interpret the entire dialogue into ASL. The Deaf client(s) will sign directly to the hearing client(s), and the ASL interpreter will voice the full dialogue in English.
When should I use VRI?
When on-site meetings between the Deaf and hearing parties cannot happen, VRI is a great option. On-site interpreting should always be the first option because visual cues and body language are important to sign language. Usually, the best practice is on-site interpreting. You might consider using VRI when:
- An on-site interpreter is unavailable due to time constraints or logistical challenges.
- You need to communicate with a deaf or hard-of-hearing individual in a remote location.
- Spontaneous or unplanned communication needs arise during meetings, medical appointments, or emergencies.
- You require flexibility in accessing interpretation services outside regular business hours or in different geographic locations.
Who will provide the video link for VRI?
3 Bridges can provide the business or organization with a link for the scheduled assignment. If the hearing client has a video meeting scheduled, they can share the link, and we'll pass it along to the ASL interpreter.
What are the equipment and technology requirements for VRI?
Check out our VRI Guidelines.
CART Services
What is CART?
CART stands for Communication Access Realtime Translation. It is a service that converts speech into text in real-time, providing accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
How does CART work?
A trained CART provider uses a stenotype machine, a computer, and specialized software to transcribe spoken words into written text as they are spoken. The text is then displayed on a screen or device for the viewer to read.
Who can benefit from using CART?
CART services benefit people who are deaf or hard of hearing and others who may require enhanced auditory access, such as individuals in noisy environments, those with learning disabilities, or non-native language speakers.
Where is CART used?
CART is used in various settings, including educational institutions, workplaces, conferences, public meetings, webinars, stage lectures and performances, and other venues.
What’s the difference between remote and on-site CART?
Onsite CART involves the CART provider being physically present at the event. Remote CART means the provider transcribes from another location, and the text is transmitted and displayed to the audience via the Internet.
Is CART the same as closed captioning?
While both services provide real-time text of spoken content, CART is specifically tailored to be verbatim and often includes environmental sounds and speaker identification, making it particularly useful for live presentations, interactions, and educational events.
What are the technical requirements for CART?
For onsite CART, you'll need appropriate display equipment, such as screens or monitors. For remote CART, participants need a stable internet connection to receive the live text stream and screens and monitors.
Are CART services covered under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)?
Yes, the ADA requires public facilities and employers to provide reasonable accommodations, such as CART services and or sign language interpreters, to ensure communication accessibility for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Can CART be customized for specific needs?
Yes, CART services can be customized. For example, the text display can be adjusted in size and contrast to accommodate visual preferences, and additional services like event transcription can also be requested.
How can CART be used in a Zoom meeting?
- Hire a CART Provider:
- Arrange for a CART provider to join your Zoom meeting. This provider must be able to hear the meeting audio clearly to transcribe it accurately.
- Setup Audio for the CART Provider:
- Ensure that the CART provider has the best possible audio feed. This might involve using high-quality microphones or setting up a direct audio connection from the meeting’s sound system to the CART provider’s equipment.
- Sharing the CART Text:
- The CART provider can share their screen, which displays the real-time transcription, with all meeting participants.
- Alternatively, the CART transcription can be sent to a separate web-based platform where participants can view the text in real time. The link to this platform can be shared with the meeting attendees.
- Integrate CART in Zoom:
- Zoom offers a closed captioning feature where a meeting host can assign a participant to type closed captions directly into Zoom. The CART provider can be assigned this role.
- Once assigned, the CART provider can type directly into Zoom’s caption box, which appears as subtitles on the video feed for all participants.
- Zoom’s Third-Party Captioning Feature:
- Zoom also supports third-party captioning services. You can input the streaming URL provided by the CART service into the Zoom captioning settings. This will display the captions directly in the Zoom interface.
- Best Practices:
- Test the setup before the actual meeting to ensure everything works smoothly.
- Inform participants about how to access the captions during the Zoom call.
- Consider recording the meeting; Zoom can include these captions for later review.