Digital Dictation V’s Tape

There are numerous dictation systems on the market that have taken over from the Philips and Grundig tape systems that we knew so well.  As it is getting increasingly harder for repairs or source parts with regards to our old tape machines, I propose you look at the various digital solutions that are on the market.  There are also specialist companies that take your work offsite and type it for you and of course there is the voice recognition software. 

I will tackle four companies that we work with:

BigHand (Offsite Typing)   

This is one of the bigger players who normally deal with the larger (5 fee earners) practice.  We have clients who use BigHand and Wildings engineers find this company very accommodating and a pleasure to work with.  Do look up their website and if you choose to use them we are very happy to assist you.  You can find them at www.bighand.com, or telephone them on 0207 940 5902.

Dictate Now (Offsite Typing) 

This is a small but none the less professional organisation.  Using their dictation software (BigHand or Winscribe) you squeeze the data through the internet (security assured) back to them and they type and send back. Those of you who use case management, they can access your clients file and type straight onto their case. They state that 99% of documents received are typed and sent back within the hour, this we can confirm. Wildings engineers will happily install on your workstations and servers.  If you require further information contact Annie Downes on 0845 601 7726 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Obviously, all the above require a digital product to work. 

Olympus Dictation equipment (Onsite Typing)

Digital as opposed to old fashioned tape is winning through, there are a few players in this field but Wildings recommend Olympus. The Olympus DS-5000 range is for the legal profession and can be demonstrated by us. They are the same as Phillips/Grundig with a handheld device and a legal secretaries unit with foot pedal. Feature packed (too numerous to mention) and should be viewed as a replacement for existing equipment. Wildings can advise, supply, install and offer starter training on this product. For more information contact us or look at the Olympus website which is www.olympus.co.uk.  You will find this software can carry out numerous functions, but if you want to see this being demonstrated (10 minutes) it is worth a look at You Tube, type in Olympus DS-5000 basic training.  You will see a very good demo by a charming American.  

Dragon Naturally Speaking

This is a fast and accurate voice recognition program – you talk, it types. The kits come wired or wireless. For more information, visit their website at www.nuance.co.uk or telephone 0845 003 7197.

We do not have many clients that use this product, so our experience is very limited.  The clients who do use it though, have very clear and precise diction.  Naturally this helps tremendously.  It is a product that has not caught on though, as well as it should have.

Those of you who still use tape will require some training on digital equipment (minor training).

The next paper blog will be regards to using hand held devices (mobiles, Apples) receiving and sending data.