Voice-activated dictation software – tried it years ago and wasn't impressed? That appears to be the main reason people have not warmed to this software. I understand that around 10 years ago, when the technology was fairly new, some of the brave few who gave it a go found it disappointing. Consequently, they simply didn't try it again. That’s understandable, but since then technology has improved immensely .
In my experience voice activated software is now amazingly accurate. If that is the case, why isn't everyone using it?
The company that produces Dragon (the market leading software) claim it is 98% accurate. I'm not sure about that figure but it is close! For the past two years, as a solicitor, I have been relying on Dragon for all of my typing. Now I can't imagine returning to clumsy two finger typing or dictating to a secretary. Why did I start using it? They say that necessity is the mother of invention and when I found myself without a secretary a couple of years ago I thought I would give it a go, and I have not looked back.
I highly recommend Dragon Naturally Speaking software. The latest Version 11 is brilliant and to be honest even the basic standard Home hope version, priced from as little as £40 is more than adequate. We aim to roll Dragon out to all my solicitors and indeed a number of them already use it. Since using Dragon, I estimate that I am well on the way to saving my business to between £50k and £100k p.a.!
If you are interested in using Dragon, do bear in mind that you really need a good microphone, it makes all the difference. I can recommend the Philips Speech Mike -- ranging from £150 to £175
Join the digital dictation revolution – adopt a Dragon today
Tim Bishop is Senior Partner of Andover Solicitors Bonallack and Bishop – who provide a full range of legal services in Andover - ranging from medical negligence claims to family mediation