Transcription

Transcribing audio into text is part of the research process for many researchers. Manually transcribing text can be time consuming, so an increasing number of researchers are using software to transcribe, for example, interview or focus group audio recordings.

Common considerations for choosing an option are the need for translation, internet availability when recording, and the length and number of audio files you are transcribing. You may need to test several to find a suitable option.

Microsoft Word

Use Microsoft Word on a University machine or signed into a University account.

Microsoft support: Transcribe your recordings

Zoom

Use Zoom when signed into a University account, recording to the cloud, and with the AI Companion turned off. Zoom allows for audio-only recording.

Zoom support: Using audio transcription for cloud recordings

MS Teams

Use MS Teams when signed into a University account. MS Teams does not allow the separation of audio and video recording streams.

Microsoft support: Record a meeting in Microsoft Teams

Vibe or Buzz

Use Vibe or Buzz when using TranscribeDesktop, a University-managed Nectar virtual desktop service. Also supports translation.

Centre for eResearch support: TranscribeDesktop introduction

Other transcription software options are not University-approved (e.g. Otter.ai, Fireflies.ai, Rev, Scribie). This includes use of user-introduced AI assistants within University Teams or Zoom meetings.

Researchers may want to use a paid transcription service where the human transcriber is based in Aotearoa New Zealand. Faculties, LRSI and schools may maintain lists of service providers. Be aware of the need for service agreements and approved data transfer options. See: Choosing data transfer services.

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