How Zoom adapted to help sign language interpreters

With lockdown making everyone work from home the past year, video and conference calls have gone through the roof.

Surprisingly, Zoom came out of nowhere to take the top spot as users’ favourite platform, ahead of Skype and Google Meet.

The company has run with their new-found fame and adapted to the user requests by making their software easier for sign language interpreters to use.

New accessibility options

Recently, Zoom added three major accessibility options, each focused on making it easier for sign language interpreters to stay visible on the screen.

Users depending on an interpreter can now pin and spotlight multiple video screens at a time. This allows them to keep the person who is signing on screen, even if someone else is talking.

Normally, when someone speaks on Zoom, their image replaces everyone else’s but this new feature can override that.

According to Jen Hill, a Zoom marketing manager, the changes are intended so that everyone is “able to live and work in a digital platform,” especially during these pandemic days.

Why should you use a sign language interpreter in meetings?

As a business, you should definitely invest in a sign language interpreter.

Not only does the Equality Act of 2010 put into law that all companies must make reasonable attempts to cater to those with disabilities, but by going one step beyond, you gain a reputation as an ally of the deaf community.

There are 12 million people in the UK with hearing difficulties, and as a business, that’s a large pool of potential clients.

If a deaf person, or even a company with a single deaf employee, has a choice, they’re going to choose the business that caters to their needs.

A sign language interpreter, whilst not needed all the time, is a vital tool to have in a company’s arsenal.

Call the experts for your sign language interpreter

As one of the country’s leading providers of sign language interpreters, live captioning, and video relay, you can trust us to bring you the very best service possible.

With a reputation for quality, consistency, and professionalism, with a click of a button, 121 can bring an experienced and qualified sign language interpreter to your Zoom call, quickly overcoming any language barriers.

Our Video Relay Service is efficient, professional, and affordable.

Boost your B2B meetings, client and customer interactions, and general communications, with a simple gesture but one that puts everyone on the same page.

Contact us today if you would like to know more about our video relay service.