Why do you expect payment upfront?
I request a 50% deposit due to the increasing number of individuals who do not pay or are slow paying. While most people are honest and trustworthy, there are some who are not. The deposit is a show of good faith on the part of the customer.
When can I expect my completed transcript(s)?
The standard quote is 3-5 business days for one hour of audio (weekends not included). This depends on the current workload. If you need your project back by a specific date (RUSH orders not included), please include your requested return date on your submission form. Work is transcribed on a first-come, first-served bases, with the exception of RUSH orders.
If we cannot fulfill your request, you will be notified before work begins. If you have already paid, you will be promptly refunded.
*Choosing the RUSH option is a consideration.
Are there any factors that might delay the turnaround time?
The most common obstacle in delaying turnaround times is difficult audio that is considered good by the client.
Recorded interviews on cell phones. While you may not notice this, the interviewee's voice can be distorted, very low, or normal background noise can affect the quality of the audio.
Background noises that are not audible to the client can often be picked up by during the transcription process.
Heavy or difficult accents is another.
Researching names, book titles, countries, etc. can also cause a delay. It is helpful to include any repetitive words or phrases to cut down on research time.
Please note that obstacles, as mentioned above can delay transcription 24-36 hours.
Why did you change my rate after you quoted a different price?
I take pride in my statement of "no surprise pricing," but there are times when a client does not state there are multiple speakers or there are portions of the audio that are difficult. Sometimes the client didn't realize this because they never played back the recording. Other times the wrong Category is chosen. These are instances where the rate will change during the transcription process. This is something that I cannot determine until the actual transcription has started. The client is notified immediately of any changes .
Do you make revisions, if needed?
We take pride in proofing work to audio; however, no one is perfect. We will revise any files that require changes for up to 5 days.
Do you charge more for RUSH jobs?
Yes. The rate depends on the turnaround time requested and quality of the audio.
The standard rate for 48-hour GUARANTEED turnaround request is $75.00 per audio hour for one hour of audio. Please see Rates page if you require a quicker turnaround time.
Rush order requests will depend on the current workload. Files must be received before 9 AM EST or the 48 hours will begin the following day. You will be notified before work begins if a RUSH request cannot be completed.
What type of proofing do you do?
I proof to audio and not just spell check.
What if I have a specific format that I want to use?
No problem. You would need to forward it along with any special instructions. Graphs, charts, or complex formatting may require an additional charge. Please inquire prior to submitting your project.
Do you offer discounts for large projects?
Fingers4Hire's rates are extremely competitive with the current market, so we cannot offer additional discounts.
We do offer discounts to students and nonprofit organizations, ($56.00 per audio hour). This applies to clear audio one-on-one interviews. Focus groups, meetings with multiple speakers, and/or time stamping will be at a higher rate. This will be determined based on the individual project. Discounts are not offered for Focus Groups. Poor audio quality will incur an additional charge. Discounts do not apply to RUSH orders.
Do you save files once they are completed?
Files are deleted 10 days after final payment is made. We save them just in case there are any changes.
Do you transcribe cassette tapes?
No. We no longer transcribe cassettes.
