Transcription software varies widely depending on what services your firm offers as well as what specific needs best suits your company. Your computer operating system comes into play, as either you will need software that works with your present system, or you will have to upgrade the entire system to fit the software. Make sure that the software is network-ready for multiple sharing over departments and branches.

Many software systems will contain information that you do not need so do not pay for options that do not work for you. Select a software system that will grow with your institution. Alternatively, upgrading your present software with new functions may be the best option if you have a system that is already working for you. Look for these features when choosing voice transcription software:

1. Buy a transcription program that works with your equipment.

2. Use your current legal transcription software with a new twist.

3. Find help with transcribe software through customer service support.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find medical transcription software providers with programs you can use

Software programs come in all shapes and sizes and there is a price tag that goes with that. Check the features of the software you are considering and purchase what your institution needs.

I recommend: NCH Software offers Express Scribe software that works with or without a foot pedal. It works with speech recognition software and best of all Express Scribe is free. Dragon Medical Transcription offers voice recognition software that allows you to transcribe by speaking into the microphone. Everything you need comes in the box. Schedule a free demo to see how this product works before you buy it.

Choose online transcription software that integrates with the system already in place

If your present software is working for you, consider upgrading it to add a few features that you need instead of replacing the entire system. There may be a small charge to upgrade but this would be minimal compared to replacing the entire system. Find out if the new necessary features are available with your present software. Alternatively, choose a software program that adds these features but integrates with the program in place.

I recommend: Start-Stop Dictation offers a complete transcription package with free upgrades for the life of the product. It has adjustable playback speed and makes recordings in all common formats. Researchware offers HyperTranscribe, which works with your existing programs on your computer such as Quicktime. Play almost any file format and export to plain text.

Choose digital transcription software that has live customer support

The best software in the world is no good to you if you cannot reach someone to answer questions when that need arises. Software has an online guide but sometimes that is not enough when you run into a difficulty. Choose software systems with live customer support features to get the most out of program.

I recommend: Dictran offers several transcriptionist software programs along with foot pedals and headsets. They provide a toll free number for sales and support. Sylvan Software sells complete software packages and provides phone, fax and email technical support.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Purchase transcriptionist software from trusted sources. Even though an unknown vendor may sell the software for less, the software may be flawed or worse yet it could contain a virus.