At a restaurant, how you like your steak prepared is
straightforward, rare, medium, or well. Ordering a transcript is not quite so
simple. In the old days, it was easy; there was one choice – paper, paper,
paper. Now it’s complex. Here’s some
assistance in understanding the available digital transcript options.
- ASCII – this is the bottom line basic version of a transcript. It is a computerized language that most word processing and litigation software products can recognize and import. An ASCII file cannot be digitally signed by the reporter.
- PDF – these files are minimally searchable but easy to open and print. Because pdf files are created from a reporter’s finalized signed transcript, these files can be certified by the reporter. But did you know, you can receive pdfs in two different formats, full size one-to-a-page format or condensed four-to-a-page format. If you have a preference, it’s best to let the reporter know, otherwise you may not receive what you prefer.
- E-transcript™ - this is a product that is amazing in its simplicity and usability. You can create pdfs or printed transcripts in any format you prefer and export the transcript into different file formats. It’s digitally signed and certified by the reporter. A word index links directly to that section of the transcript and a cut and paste feature allows copying testimony and pasting into another document preserving page and line numbers. And perhaps best of all, the file is scanned, virus free and doesn’t get lost in firewalls.
- Publisher™ - these files are E-transcript™ files turbocharged. All exhibits are linked to the transcript where they are marked. Everything is in one nice, neat package. No more having multiple windows open. Best of all, the exhibits are OCR so they have their own word index which means you don’t have to read every document trying to find something. Video testimony can be synched as well allowing clips of testimony to be created for review.
- Online – Online repositories are the way of the future. With a user ID and password, logging onto a secure site gives you 24/7 access to all the file formats. No more trying to find files hidden away in some forgotten folder.
If you’re considering electronic transcripts, there are lots
of options to consider. Try them and see what works best for you.
