Introduction
In a globalized, digital-first world shaped by the aftershocks of COVID-19, the way we connect, communicate, and collaborate has changed forever. Among the many shifts in event management, Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) has emerged as a transformative solution—bridging linguistic gaps in real-time during virtual and hybrid events.
Whether you’re hosting a global summit, an investor webinar, or an international product launch, ensuring seamless multilingual communication is crucial. But is remote simultaneous interpretation the right fit for your event? Let’s explore the promise of RSI, its cloud-based foundations, the importance of addressing latency issues, and the ideal scenarios where RSI truly shines.
What is Remote Simultaneous Interpretation?
Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) is a form of simultaneous interpretation where interpreters work remotely—often from their homes or centralized hubs—using cloud-based platforms. This is a departure from the traditional setup where interpreters sit in on-site soundproof booths with direct access to the speaker and audience.
In RSI, everything takes place online. Interpreters listen to speakers via high-quality audio/video feeds and deliver interpretations in real-time to a remote or hybrid audience through cloud platforms like Interprefy, Kudo, or VoiceBoxer.
The Rise of RSI in the Post-COVID Era
The pandemic accelerated digital transformation across industries, and the events sector was no exception. With travel restrictions, health concerns, and cost pressures, in-person interpreting became less feasible. This created an urgent demand for remote solutions, giving RSI the momentum it needed to become mainstream.
Post-COVID, even as in-person events return, RSI hasn’t lost steam. Why? Because it offers a compelling blend of flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency that traditional setups simply can’t match.
Cloud-Based RSI Solutions: Breaking Down the Technology
At the core of RSI is advanced cloud technology, often integrated with premium luxury technology solutions to deliver unmatched audio and video quality. Instead of relying on physical infrastructure—cables, booths, mixers, and transmitters—RSI platforms operate through the internet, offering:
- Real-time streaming of audio/video from the speaker to the interpreter.
- Interpreter dashboards with audio controls, chat options, and handover functionality.
- Multilingual streaming back to the audience in their preferred language.
Popular cloud-based RSI platforms include:
- Interprefy: Highly customizable, browser-based platform trusted by organizations like the UN and WHO.
- KUDO: Known for its multilingual meeting platform with high-level security and audio clarity.
- VoiceBoxer: Emphasizes user accessibility, with simultaneous interpretation and multilingual chat features.
These tools have eliminated geographical barriers, allowing skilled interpreters to work from anywhere in the world.
Addressing Latency Concerns in Remote Interpretation
One of the most pressing challenges with remote simultaneous interpretation is latency—the delay between the original speech and the interpreted audio. Latency can hinder real-time engagement, cause confusion, and degrade the audience experience.
Several factors influence RSI latency:
- Internet Bandwidth & Stability
- Interpreter and audience internet speeds must be robust and consistent.
- Platform Optimization
- Cloud-based RSI tools use sophisticated buffering, compression, and redundancy protocols to reduce delay.
- Hardware Quality
- Professional-grade microphones, headsets, and low-latency audio interfaces help ensure clarity and minimal lag.
- Interoperability with Streaming Platforms
- Seamless integration with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Webex can further optimize timing.
To mitigate latency:
- Opt for RSI platforms with proven performance under load.
- Ensure interpreters and speakers use wired internet connections.
- Conduct dry runs and technical rehearsals before live events.
When managed correctly, latency is barely perceptible, ensuring a smooth and synchronized multilingual experience.
When Does Remote Simultaneous Interpretation Work Best?
RSI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. While powerful, it works best in certain contexts:
1. Hybrid Events
Events with both in-person and virtual attendees benefit immensely from RSI. It allows remote interpreters to support on-site and online audiences without the need for physical presence or equipment setup.
2. Virtual Conferences and Webinars
Whether it’s a UN-style plenary session or a corporate town hall, virtual-only events are perfect for RSI. It allows simultaneous interpretation to scale globally without logistical overhead.
3. Multi-time Zone Participation
With speakers and attendees joining from multiple countries, RSI supports distributed participation, reducing the need for physical travel or coordination of on-site interpreters across borders.
4. Last-Minute Language Requirements
Need an interpreter for an unexpected language pairing? RSI allows for fast onboarding of remote interpreters without geographic or travel constraints.
5. Budget-Conscious Events
Compared to traditional setups involving travel, per diems, booth rentals, and AV gear, RSI significantly reduces costs, especially for short events or limited-language requirements.
Key Advantages of Remote Simultaneous Interpretation
Let’s break down the top benefits of RSI that make it an attractive choice post-COVID:
| Feature | Traditional SI | Remote SI |
| Interpreter Location | On-site | Anywhere (remote) |
| Setup Cost | High (booths, travel, AV) | Lower (cloud platform) |
| Flexibility | Rigid | Highly adaptable |
| Scalability | Limited by venue | Global reach |
| Environmental Impact | High (travel, transport) | Low (virtual setup) |
| Ideal For | Large physical events | Virtual/Hybrid/Global |
Things to Consider Before Choosing RSI
RSI isn’t without its challenges. Before committing, event organizers should evaluate:
- Technical Readiness: Ensure stable internet, modern devices, and backup connections for all key participants.
- Interpreter Training: RSI demands familiarity with digital tools. Choose interpreters with RSI experience or provide training sessions.
- Platform Security: For confidential meetings, choose platforms with end-to-end encryption and secure data handling.
- Audience Accessibility: Ensure your RSI platform supports easy access for users with minimal technical barriers.
- Support Team: Work with a provider offering real-time tech support during the event.
A Post-COVID Perspective: Is RSI the New Normal?
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digitalization of events and made RSI a necessity. In the post-pandemic era, RSI is no longer just a workaround—it’s a strategic asset.
Hybrid and virtual formats are here to stay. RSI empowers organizers to include global voices, boost accessibility, and scale communication like never before. As event technologies mature, RSI will continue to evolve with improvements in AI-powered voice detection, automatic fallback interpreters, and real-time analytics.
Organizations that invest in RSI now—both in tools and training—will stay ahead in creating inclusive, multilingual, future-ready events.
Final Thoughts
Remote Simultaneous Interpretation is a smart, scalable, and sustainable solution for today’s hybrid and virtual events. With the right cloud platform, technical setup, and trained interpreters, RSI can deliver seamless multilingual communication without geographical or financial barriers.
Is RSI right for your event?
If you’re hosting an international audience, operating on a tight budget, or seeking flexibility without compromising quality, the answer is likely yes.
As the world continues to shrink digitally and expand globally, simultaneous interpretation—particularly in its remote form—is not just a tool. It’s a bridge. One that connects ideas, cultures, and opportunities without borders.
