Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the ethics of professional interpreting. Interpreters are bound to absolute discretion regarding the content of events, including information about speakers and any conclusions reached. For added assurance, clients may request a separate confidentiality agreement, the standard practice clients adopt in the market.

A coordinating interpreter (or consultant interpreter) analyzes the event's needs and helps the client plan accordingly. They consider the interpreters' skills and language classifications to assemble the best team to ensure smooth communication, optimal performance, and cost efficiency.

The coordinating interpreter acts as a bridge between the client and the interpreting team. This includes ensuring the team receives all necessary materials, such as the agenda and preparation documents, to facilitate a successful interpretation.

The work of the coordinating interpreter is compensated by an additional fee, commonly referred to as the coordination fee.

Yes, but it's important to understand that simultaneous interpretation is considered intellectual property. Therefore, there is usually an additional copyright and/or language rights transfer fee for recording.

Organizers are essential partners for the interpreting team. Providing interpreters with information about the topic, speakers, and event format in advance is vital. It will ensure that they are well-prepared and can perform to the best of their ability.

This allows the interpreter time to research the subject matter, understand the context, and become familiar with the relevant terminology to ensure a smooth and accurate interpretation.

A commercial interpreter is a certified professional authorized by the Chamber of Commerce in the interpreter's domicile within the parameters established by this body. This accreditation is usually granted through a public examination process. Government agencies often call upon Commercial interpreters to assist foreigners in contexts such as registry offices, courts, and government offices.

Professional interpreters need more than skills in at least two languages. They must complete specialized training in conference interpreting that covers essential techniques, vocabulary building, booth etiquette, and ethical standards. Such programs are readily available in major Brazilian cities, often at the postgraduate level. Regardless of experience, dedicated interpreters continually refine their skills and diligently prepare for each event to exceed client and audience expectations.

Professional interpreting requires discipline, concentration, and respect for both the client and your fellow interpreters. Sharing a booth requires consideration and adherence to some basic etiquette guidelines:

• Maintain a quiet atmosphere.
• Put cell phones in silent mode and mute computer sounds and alerts.
• Organize documents and materials.
• Avoid rummaging through bags or making noise near the microphone.
• Use the mute or cough button when coughing, sneezing, drinking water, etc.
• Type quietly: Be aware of keyboard noise.
• Avoid arguments with your colleagues.
• Do not interrupt your colleague unnecessarily.
• Discuss preferences for lighting, seating, and microphone handover with your colleague.
• Avoid open-mic comments.
• Keep and leave the booth clean.
• Dress appropriately: Follow the event's dress code.
• Respect professional boundaries: Maintain discretion in dress and behavior outside the booth. Avoid self-promotion at your colleague's or intermediary's events.
• Be courteous to everyone: Treat contractors, technicians, event staff, and audience members kindly and respectfully.

Portable systems, sometimes called "bidule" or mini systems, provide a booth-free and wireless solution. They are ideal for smaller events, short meetings, or situations where participants are mobile, such as tours or site visits.

This eliminates the pauses associated with consecutive interpreting, resulting in more dynamic communication. For larger and longer events, however, the traditional booth and fixed equipment setup provides greater comfort for interpreters and participants, ensuring optimal concentration and engagement.

Remote simultaneous interpreting (RSI) takes place in a virtual environment. Interpreters work from a remote location using specialized platforms that allow for channel assignment. As technology advances, hybrid solutions on the market allow interpreters to work remotely during an event where participants meet face-to-face. Contact your coordinating interpreter to select the best RSI solution for your needs.

Today, two leading technologies are used for simultaneous interpretation: Infrared and Frequency Modulation (FM). Each has its advantages and drawbacks.

Infrared offers greater confidentiality because the signal remains within the meeting room, preventing eavesdropping from outside. This also eliminates interference from other events taking place at the same time in nearby locations. In addition, infrared systems are immune to radiowave interference.

Infrared systems offer analog (up to four channels) and digital (up to 32 channels) options. However, analog systems can be susceptible to interference from direct sunlight and certain types of artificial lighting, such as incandescent and fluorescent lamps.

Frequency modulation (FM) systems are widely used around the world, including Brazil, and typically operate in the narrow 72.1 to 79 MHz frequency range. These systems are popular because of their wide coverage, ease of setup, and ability to transmit through walls—ideal for extending interpretation to audiences outside the main meeting room. This technology is also often used in portable simultaneous interpretation setups. However, FM systems can be susceptible to radio interference and pick up unwanted signals.

At this point we only have a 2.4 GHz frequency system with advanced encryption to ensure secure access to event information and prevent interference from other devices using the same frequency band.

A well-designed permanent interpretation booth must prioritize four essential requirements:

1. The booth must effectively isolate the interpreters from outside noise and prevent interference between the languages spoken in the event. This includes isolating the interpreters from the source or presenter's language.

2. The booth should facilitate clear and uninterrupted communication between the interpreters and the audience.

3. The interpreters must have a clear and unobstructed view of the speaker and any visual presentations.

4. The booth must provide a comfortable and ergonomic environment for the interpreters that promotes concentration and optimal performance.

To ensure your permanent interpreting booth meets international standards, refer to ISO 2603 (revised 2009) in the link below. This document provides detailed specifications for optimal booth design.

Need help with the standard or designing your booth? APIC's Technical Working Group is ready to assist with new construction or renovation projects. Contact us for expert guidance.