Criteria for choosing the interpreting mode

Interpreting types

SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETING
  • No loss of time
  • Unlimited number of languages
  • Technical equipment required
  • At least 2 simultaneous interpreters (the number of interpreters will depend on the number of language combinations – see table below)
Technical equipment
  • Simultaneous interpreting equipment
  • Sound amplifying system
  • Microphones for discussion
Other conditions
  • One or more booths in the room 
  • Technicians required throughout the duration of the meeting
Number of listeners
  • Unlimited
CONSECUTIVE INTERPRETING
  • No technical equipment required
  • Takes twice as much time
  • Can be used only for two working languages and for a dynamic situation (not appropriate for longer frontal lectures)
Technical equipment
  • No technical equipment required
  • Sound amplification required for larger audiences
Other conditions
  • Place where the interpreter(s) can sit and take notes
Number of listeners
  • Unlimited
WHISPERED INTERPRETING
  • Usually just into one language, for short events only, 1-2 listeners only, sometimes in combination with consecutive interpreting into the other language
  • May annoy other participants
Technical equipment
  • No technical equipment required
Other conditions
  • Appropriate seats for the interpreters
Number of listeners
  • Not more than 1 to 2

Teams

The number of interpreters depends on the number of languages.

Number of working languages
Number of interpreters
2
3*
3
5*
4
8
5
10

* For shorter conferences which are not technically demanding or do not require intensive preparation, you will need fewer interpreters.

  • At conferences with unusual language combinations for which the English or German booth serves as relay, it may be necessary to provide more interpreters than indicated in the table to cover all the language combinations.