FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Digital Video Interpreting?
PI Video Interpreting (PIVI) enables deaf and hearing people in the same room to communicate through an interpreter at a distant location. Interpreting via Digital Video Phone is convenient for the customer who needs communication access when traditional community interpreting services are not available or practical.
Traditionally, interpreting service is provided by a person who is physically present at the location in which both the hearing and deaf parties are present. Today, widely available and economical video conferencing technology has made it possible to provide interpreting service while the interpreter remains at a remote location. This is called video remote interpreting and it’s how PIVI makes it possible to ensure clear, accurate communication between deaf and hearing parties, even when an interpreter is not present providing access to more Deaf Canadians.
What are the technical requirements to use Video Interpreting?
You will need high-speed Internet access, and a compatible video conferencing software. Our interpreters use the IRIS-V. (CLICK HERE)
If you prefer other programs, please contact us to check compatibility.
Digital Video Phone's can be purchased by following this link and use Team Number: 02146586 and e-mail address: susi@pisigns.com.
How long in advance do I schedule for an interpreter?
We highly recommend that you schedule an interpreter at least 24 hours in advance to ensure that we are able to meet your needs and expectations.
We will accept appointments with less notice, but must charge a service fee for scheduling requests made with less than eight hours notice during office hours.
Billing and scheduling operation hours are 24 hours, 7 days a week.
What happens if my session last more than one hour? Will we be using two interpreters? Will I be billed for two interpreters?
Due to Health and Safety guidelines, one (1) hour is the maximum for all Video Interpreting calls. At end of one hour, the call will be terminated by the interpreter. There is a minimum charge for all Video Interpreting appointments and calls are booked and billed in 15-minute increments up to a maximum of 1 hour.
Please contact us at info@pisigns.com for information on fees and billing.
Can I request a specific interpreter?
Yes, it is possible to request a specific interpreter. Two weeks notice is preferred.
Does it provide on-demand services?
This option is not available at this time. However, we do try to accommodate last minute requests, but with no guarantees.
What is the PI Video Interpreting cancellation policy?
There is no charge for cancellations that are made 48 hours in advance. If the assignment is cancelled with less than 48 hours notice, it will be billed for the entire scheduled time.
If the client fails to show up for the appointment, the assignment will be billed for the entire time that was originally scheduled.
What is the recommended room set-up?
Be sure the person who will be signing is within the camera’s view so the interpreter can see them clearly. We suggest that the person signing does not move excessively, as this can sometimes make it difficult for the video camera to capture their signing. It is best to sign in one place and within the camera’s view.