Will Human Transcriptionists be Replaced by AI?
Posted on 6th September 2023 • Categories: General
It is unlikely that AI transcription will completely replace human transcriptionists in the immediate future. The modern technology-driven life that we live in feels like a science fiction model where machines are slowly taking over humans. It makes me laugh to think that I am even typing about this subject!
AI technology has made significant progress over the last few years, offering the production of fast transcripts, but they are not 100% accurate I hasten to add. There are still certain limitations to consider, which requires human involvement, such as proof-reading, to review and amend the transcripts generated by AI.
Although AI transcription has improved, it is not flawless. AI transcription software claim an 80% accuracy rate. This translates to an average of one in every eight words transcribed being incorrect, which equates to a large amount of errors, especially if the transcript is around fifty pages long. Human transcriptionists often produce more accurate transcriptions, especially in specialised areas. Of course humans make errors and we will continue to do so, but I would trust a human over AI to produce a workable transcript, especially if it was of great importance.
AI transcription lacks the ability to grasp the contextual nuances of language, whereas human transcriptionists are skilled at reviewing transcription, ensuring accuracy and consistency. They can identify errors, correct misunderstandings, and adapt to specific client requirements. AI transcription systems still requires human intervention to attain the desired level of quality and is not a substitute for a trained and qualified transcriptionist.
Humans do more than simply type what we hear. The most challenging aspects of this focuses on accents, English grammar, nuances and punctuation. These are the skills that set us apart from Artificial Intelligence.
Another disadvantage of using AI transcription right now is the cost, as it is not free. Once your AI software has produced your transcript for you, further time and costs will be incurred by the need to have it checked and edited by an intelligent human.
I am your human transcriptionist and I am here to stay, well for now anyway…