1What is online simultaneous interpretation?
Online simultaneous interpretation, also known as RSI (Remote Simultaneous Interpretation), is the modality in which certified professional interpreters perform real-time translation from a remote studio, delivering audio directly through the event's video conferencing platform.
Unlike on-site interpretation, where interpreters work in ISO 4043 booths installed at the event venue, in RSI interpreters connect from anywhere in the world using professional studio equipment, maintaining the same audio quality and technical precision.
Did you know?
RSI gained massive adoption from 2020 onwards and today accounts for more than 40% of all simultaneous interpretation services worldwide. Its cost is 30–50% lower than on-site interpretation.
Global reach
Interpreters from anywhere in the world
30–50% more affordable
No travel costs or booth installation
Latency <1 second
Imperceptible to participants
2How RSI works step by step
The online simultaneous interpretation process follows a precise technical flow that guarantees quality and continuity throughout the event:
The speaker talks in their language
The speaker's audio reaches the remote interpreter through the video conferencing platform with minimal latency (<200ms).
The interpreter listens and translates in real time
From their certified studio, the interpreter listens to the original audio and simultaneously translates into the target language, speaking into their professional microphone.
Translated audio is broadcast to the language channel
The RSI platform creates separate language channels. The interpreter's audio is transmitted exclusively to the corresponding channel (e.g. "Spanish" channel, "English" channel).
Participants choose their language
Each participant selects their preferred language in the platform interface and listens to the interpretation in real time, without interference from other channels.
Interpreters rotate every 20–30 minutes
To maintain quality, two interpreters per language work in rotation. The switch is transparent to participants.
3Compatible platforms for RSI
STIB works with the leading video conferencing and RSI platforms on the market. The choice depends on event size, number of languages and organizer preferences:
Native language interpretation feature. Ideal for corporate events with up to 1,000 participants. Easy to use for organizers and attendees alike.
Native integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Ideal for organizations already using Teams internally. Supports multiple language channels.
Professional RSI platform with advanced features: interpreter management, real-time quality monitoring, up to 32 simultaneous language channels.
All-in-one platform for multilingual events. Combines video conferencing and RSI in a single interface. Widely used by international organizations and the UN.
Robust solution for large corporations. High security and end-to-end encryption. Supports integrated simultaneous interpretation.
Integration with Google Workspace. Ideal for organizations already using the Google ecosystem. Browser-based access with no additional installation.
STIB Recommendation
For events with more than 3 languages or more than 500 participants, we recommend dedicated RSI platforms such as Interprefy or KUDO. For standard corporate events, Zoom or Teams are sufficient and more familiar to participants.
4Advantages over on-site interpretation
| Criteria | RSI Online | On-Site |
|---|---|---|
| ISO booth installation | Not required | Mandatory |
| Travel logistics | No cost | Included in budget |
| Geographic reach | Global | Local/National |
| Setup time | 30–60 minutes | 2–4 hours |
| Audio quality | Professional (studio) | Professional (ISO booth) |
| Hybrid events | Ideal | Requires additional integration |
| Number of languages | No technical limit | Limited by booth space |
5When to use RSI?
RSI is the ideal option in the following scenarios:
100% virtual events
Webinars, online conferences, virtual assemblies and international board meetings.
Hybrid events
When part of the audience is physically present and another part is connected remotely.
Speakers in different countries
When speakers are geographically distributed and cannot be in the same location.
Tight budget
When professional quality is needed at a lower cost than the on-site option.
Short-duration events
1–3 hour meetings where installing physical booths is neither practical nor cost-effective.
Multiple simultaneous languages
When 4 or more languages are needed and the physical space does not allow for that many booths.
When NOT to use RSI?
For highly formal on-site events (such as diplomatic summits, international trials or official ceremonies), on-site interpretation with ISO 4043 booths remains the standard recommended by AIIC. In these cases, the physical presence of the interpreter and the acoustic control of the booth are critical factors.
6Technical requirements
To ensure high-quality RSI, it is important that both the organizer and participants meet certain minimum technical requirements:
For the organizer
- Video conferencing platform configured
- Language channels activated
- Technical test prior to the event
- Technical moderator during the event
- Contingency plan defined
For interpreters (STIB)
- Minimum 10 Mbps upload connection
- Dual redundant connection
- Professional studio microphone
- Closed-back monitoring headset
- Computer dedicated exclusively to the event
For participants
- Stable internet connection
- Headphones recommended
- Updated app or browser
- Select language channel on the platform
- Mute microphone when not speaking
7How to hire the RSI service
Hiring online simultaneous interpretation with STIB is a simple and transparent process:
Initial contact
Send us your event details: date, duration, languages needed, number of participants and preferred platform. You can do this via form, email or WhatsApp.
Personalized proposal
Within 24 hours, you will receive a detailed proposal with recommended interpreters, suggested platform, technical schedule and transparent pricing.
Interpreter selection
We select AIIC-certified interpreters with specialization in your event's subject area (medical, legal, corporate, technical, etc.).
Technical setup
Our team configures the RSI platform, creates language channels, runs audio/video tests and prepares the contingency plan.
Pre-event rehearsal
We run a full test session with organizers and speakers to ensure everything works perfectly before the event day.
Live event
During the event, an RSI technician monitors quality in real time and interpreters work in rotation. Immediate support for any incident.
8Frequently asked questions
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Interpretation for Hybrid Events
Complete solution for events with both in-person and remote participants simultaneously.
On-Site Interpretation
When the physical presence of the interpreter and ISO 4043 booths are the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Complete answers to all questions about simultaneous interpretation and STIB services.