Interpretation is that invisible thread that makes it possible for people who do not share a language to understand each other effortlessly. For a long time, the usual thing was to have on-site interpreters. How? Booths were set up, microphones were installed, and a whole technical deployment was organized to make it possible. But with the rise of remote work and video calls, an equally effective and sometimes even more convenient alternative has gained strength: remote interpreting or RSI (Remote Simultaneous Interpreting).
In this article we break it all down, without technicalities or detours. Just useful information so that you can make decisions with confidence and prepare your multilingual event with peace of mind.
What exactly is Remote Simultaneous Interpreting (RSI)?
Remote simultaneous interpreting, RSI for short in English, means that interpreters work remotely, from wherever they are, through digital platforms. They are not physically at the event: they listen to the speakers live via streaming and translate instantly, for an audience that may also be connected remotely or even present, following the translation from digital devices.
Instead of setting up physical booths and complex sound systems, the key is to have a well-configured platform. Zoom, Interprefy, Kudo, Voiceboxer… there are many tools that make everything happen, literally, in the cloud.
Limitations of RSI that you should not overlook
No, RSI is not the magic solution for everything. It also has its weak points, and it is important to keep them in mind:
Technological dependence: if Wi-Fi or the platform fails, everything gets complicated.
Less warmth: being face to face always adds nuances that the screen cannot give.
Digital fatigue: spending so many hours in front of the computer is very tiring.
Additional preparation: you have to know the tool well before the event to avoid stumbling live.
When to choose on-site interpreting instead of RSI?
Although RSI is gaining ground, there are situations where being on-site still makes more sense. Some examples:
High-protocol events: official meetings, institutional visits, diplomatic encounters… Here formality and direct contact prevail.
Events with personal interaction: gala dinners, guided tours or sensitive negotiations. The interpreter contributes much more if he or she is there.
Poor connectivity: if the event location has bad signal, better avoid risks.
Very long or intense sessions: sometimes the body and mind need more than a screen.
When to choose remote interpreting (RSI) over on-site
RSI shines especially in these contexts:
Online or hybrid congresses, when part of the audience is connected from outside.
International business meetings with participants spread around the world.
Webinars, courses or digital launches in which each person attends from their city or even from their mobile.
Projects with tight budgets: when every euro must be cared for without sacrificing quality.
Urgent or last-minute events, when setting up something on-site would be unfeasible due to time constraints.
How to prepare for remote interpreting: practical checklist
1. Choose the right platform
Not all are good for the same things. Zoom works for many cases, but tools like Kudo or Interprefy are made for professional interpreting, with everything that implies: separate audio channels, virtual booths, technical support, etc.
2. Take care of the sound
It seems basic, but it is crucial. Decent microphones, rooms without echo and zero background noise. Audio is the interpreter’s working material.
3. Do rehearsals
A general test changes everything. Check that everything works: audio, video, connections, access… whatever is needed.
4. Have a plan B
Always. It can be an alternative link, a WhatsApp group, whatever. But if something fails, you need a way out.
5. Train the speakers
They should not speak too fast, they should look at the camera, and they should not read like robots. A little guidance goes a long way.
6. Prepare the interpreters
As always: scripts, presentations, names, context, terminology. Everything that helps them anticipate.
7. Think about the audience
Explain how to access the interpretation channel, which device is better, how to change the language… Do not take anything for granted.
What do interpreters need to work remotely?
In addition to their training and experience, remote interpreters need a technical environment that is up to the task:
Powerful computer.
Stable internet connection (wired, not only Wi-Fi).
Professional-grade microphone and headphones.
Some extra screen, in case they need to follow presentations or chats.
And of course, a secure and reliable platform.
It is also important that, whenever possible, there are two interpreters per language. Switching every 20 or 30 minutes is not a whim: it is mental health.
The human factor in RSI: how to maintain closeness
One of the big challenges of RSI is that it can feel colder. But that has a solution:
Cameras on: seeing the interpreter helps to connect with them.
Live chats: allow doubts to be resolved instantly by the expert.
Active moderators: give rhythm and naturalness to the whole meeting.
Conclusion
Remote interpreting (RSI) is not a patch or a fad. It is a tool with many advantages that, if well managed, can make your event flow as if everyone spoke the same language.
Is it better than on-site? Not always. It depends. But what is clear is that if it is well implemented, RSI can allow you to reduce costs and maintain the professional quality you expect.