CART and RCC: Making Communication Easier for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation) and RCC (Remote Conference Captioning) are two awesome services that help make sure Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals don’t miss a beat. These services are all about providing real-time captions so everyone can stay in the loop during meetings, lectures, conferences, and the like. While we at Deaf Access Solutions (DAS) are best known for our high-quality sign language interpreting services, CART and RCC are also important tools in our wheelhouse, especially for those who prefer text over signing.
In this post, we’ll take a look at how CART and RCC differ, how they benefit, and why remote services are becoming such a hit. Hint: They are convenient and affordable. By offering this diverse range of services, DAS ensures everyone’s communication needs are covered.
What is CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation)?
CART, sometimes called real-time captioning, turns spoken words into text instantly. A CART writer listens to what is being said and uses a special machine called a steno machine to type it out super-fast—around 180 words per minute! The captions show up on a screen so Deaf and Hard of Hearing folks can read along, whether they’re there in person or tuning in remotely.
You’ll often see CART used in places like schools, legal settings, doctor’s appointments, and business meetings. CART is crucial for making sure everyone has access to spoken content. CART writers capture every word with high accuracy, making this a reliable option for nearly any situation.
CART can be provided in-person/onsite or remotely with virtually no difference in the quality of service, although in-person is considerably more costly in today’s market. Because of this DAS recommends using remote CART whenever possible to maintain quality while keeping cost down.
What is RCC (Remote Conference Captioning)?
RCC is very similar to CART but is only done remotely. Instead of being physically present, the RCC writer connects online, listens to the event’s audio, and types out captions in real time using a steno machine. RCC is perfect for virtual meetings, webinars, and large remote conferences.
One of the great things about RCC is how flexible and scalable it is. Since captioners can work from anywhere, it’s easier to schedule and often more affordable because you don’t have to worry about travel or logistics. With more and more virtual events happening these days, RCC is becoming a go-to for many.
RCC is also usually billed per minute while CART is billed in longer timeframes, such as 30- or 60-minute increments. This means whichever you choose, there is a captioning service just right to meet your needs.
Why CART and RCC Matter
In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected and informed is critical. With the increase in the number of aging adults, many of whom find themselves facing challenges with their hearing, CART and RCC play a huge role in making sure Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals have the same access to information as everyone else. Whether it’s a classroom lecture, a business meeting, or a virtual event, these services ensure that everyone can follow along and participate fully.
As remote work and virtual events continue to grow, services like RCC have become even more essential. They provide real-time captions without needing anyone to be there in person, making it easy for organizations to include everyone, no matter where they are.
How Do CART and RCC Help the Deaf and Hard of Hearing?
Both CART and RCC give Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals direct access to what’s being said in real time. Instead of waiting for a summary or relying on an interpreter, they can read along as the event unfolds. This makes it easier for them to stay involved and contribute just like their hearing counterparts.
These services are especially useful in settings where timing and accuracy are key, like in classrooms, courts, or business meetings. Students can follow lectures in real time with CART, while RCC makes sure Deaf employees or clients don’t miss important discussions during remote meetings.
What’s Similar Between CART and RCC?
Though used in different settings, CART and RCC share a lot of similarities. Both offer real-time, highly accurate captions that allow Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals to participate fully. Both DAS services are provided by trained professionals who are able to type extremely fast and accurately and certified by either the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) or NVRA (National Verbatim Reporters Association).
Both services also follow strict guidelines to ensure confidentiality and high standards are maintained. At Deaf Access Solutions, the CART writers and RCC captioners are seasoned pros, so clients receive top-notch service every time.
Key Differences Between Remote and In-person
The biggest difference? Onsite CART is an in-person service where the captioner is physically at the event. This can be important in places where a stable internet connection isn’t guaranteed, or when a speaker prefers face-to-face interaction.
RCC and Remote CART, on the other hand, are fully remote. The captioner connects online, making it a great option for virtual events, webinars, or large-scale conferences. It’s often more cost-effective and easier to schedule since no travel is involved and hourly rates are less, and it’s perfect for hybrid events where both in-person and remote participants need access.
Choosing Between Onsite and Remote: Which One’s Right for You?
Deciding between onsite or remote real-time captioning depends on the type of event. If there may be connectivity issues (rare) or the consumer needs to interact with speakers or participants face-to-face, onsite CART is the way to go.
If your event is virtual or you need captions for a large audience, remote CART or RCC are probably the better fit. Remote captioning is flexible, scalable, and much more affordable, especially for virtual or hybrid events.
How DAS Can Help with CART and RCC
Deaf Access Solutions (DAS) is a trusted provider of communication access services, with certified professionals who excel in both CART and RCC. Whether you need on-site or remote CART or RCC, they’ve got you covered with flexible, reliable solutions.
Our team of certified captioners follows the highest ethical standards and guidelines, so you can be sure you’re getting accurate and professional service. Plus, with their strong customer support and technical resources, you’ll have a smooth experience from start to finish.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re interested in CART or RCC for your next event, DAS makes the process easy. Just reach out to our Coordination team at coordination@deafaccess.com to discuss your needs, and they’ll help you choose the best option for your situation. Whether it’s an in-person meeting or a virtual conference, they’ll ensure that communication is accessible for everyone involved.
CART and RCC are amazing tools for making sure no one is left out of important conversations. With Deaf Access Solutions, you can count on top-notch service and a seamless experience, regardless of the need.