Guide · Interpreting
Video or on-site interpreting: which suits my meeting?
Video can reduce travel but changes how a discussion works. Choose the format around the participants, schedule and communication requirements.
Reviewed on 28 October 2026
The short answer
Video interpreting may suit meetings where everyone can reliably hear, see and take turns. On-site interpreting may better suit a complex room or discussion setup. Agree the format, audio, access, confidentiality and a technical test beforehand. Suitability and availability of a particular platform or assignment format must be expressly confirmed.
Start with the discussion and participants, not the platform
Describe participant numbers and locations, languages and planned contributions. Several people sharing one room microphone create different conditions from individuals using suitable headsets.
Clarify whether documents need showing, confidential side discussions are planned or multiple language channels are required. An ordinary video-call feature does not establish suitability for every interpreting mode.
Check audio, access and a trial together
VKD remote-interpreting guidance emphasises suitable audio, technical support and preparation. Assign responsibility for invitations, microphone checks and contact during connection problems.
Plan a test using the actual devices, room and intended access. Discuss breaks and what happens during an outage. A stable connection alone does not fix unintelligible room audio.
Read more: VKD within BDÜ: remote interpreting guidance
Agree confidentiality, recording and availability
State any particular recipient requirements and ask whether it permits the proposed attendance format. Establish who may listen, which documents are shared and whether recording is planned.
Enquire with date, duration, languages and schedule. Platform, technical services and privacy arrangements must fit the assignment. An enquiry promises neither any platform you choose nor immediate or round-the-clock access.
Read more: BDÜ Hessen/Rheinland-Pfalz: commissioning translation and interpreting
Your next steps
Describe participants, locations and the discussion schedule.
Clarify the permitted format and particular confidentiality needs.
Agree audio, access, support and a test appointment.
Confirm suitability, availability and the complete scope.
More questions
Is every video-conferencing platform suitable?
No. Mode, participants, audio and access must work together technically and operationally.
Is video interpreting automatically cheaper?
Travel may be reduced, but equipment, preparation and staffing still need assessment. Compare the full scope.
Can I simply record the discussion?
Clarify consent, confidentiality and usage rights beforehand with all relevant participants.
Sources and further reading
- VKD within BDÜ: remote interpreting guidance
- BDÜ Hessen/Rheinland-Pfalz: commissioning translation and interpreting
The confirmed schedule, appropriate credentials and agreed technical conditions determine the assignment.
Enquire about your interpreting assignment
Tell us the date, location, languages and discussion schedule. We can clarify possible scope and availability with you.
Free and non-binding. An enquiry does not reserve an assignment; availability and booking are expressly confirmed.