CART and RCC: Enhancing Communication Access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community
At Deaf Access Solutions (DAS), we’re renowned for our exceptional sign language interpreting services, but our expertise goes far beyond that. Two essential services we offer to meet diverse communication preferences are Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) and Remote Conference Captioning (RCC). These tools ensure that Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals have equal access to communication, especially those who prefer text over signing.
Both CART and RCC provide real-time captions, keeping Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals fully informed and engaged in events such as meetings, lectures, or workshops. In this post, we’ll explore the distinctions, benefits, and growing popularity of these remote services for their cost-efficiency and convenience.
What is CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation)?
CART is a service where a highly skilled CART provider converts spoken words into text, which is displayed on a screen almost instantly. This service is particularly valuable in settings like schools, legal proceedings, medical appointments, and business meetings, ensuring that Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals can follow along in real time.
Whether provided onsite or remotely, CART remains a highly accurate and reliable solution. Remote CART offers the added benefit of reducing costs as the hourly rate is less and it eliminates travel expenses, making remote CART a recommendation DAS strongly supports for most scenarios.
What is RCC (Remote Conference Captioning)?
RCC is a specialized form of CART, always delivered remotely, and typically billed by the minute. RCC offers the added feature of allowing the captioner to voice for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing participant when needed, beyond just providing text of the event’s dialogue. This service is ideal for virtual meetings, webinars, and remote conferences where accessibility is critical.
Because RCC services are remote, they provide flexibility and scalability—making it easier to schedule captioners for large or small events without logistical hurdles, and it’s also more affordable due to the absence of travel fees.
Why CART and RCC Matter
As virtual events and remote work environments become the norm, the demand for remote accessibility services like RCC has skyrocketed. These services ensure that all participants, regardless of location, can engage fully and receive real-time access to spoken content.
CART and RCC also enhance participation in scenarios requiring precise language, like courtrooms, classrooms, or business meetings. These services are invaluable in ensuring inclusion and equality for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
Onsite vs. Remote CART: Key Differences
The primary difference between onsite CART and remote CART lies in the delivery method. Onsite CART involves the captioner being physically present at the event, which can be crucial in situations with unreliable internet connections. Remote CART and RCC, however, are delivered online, making them more cost-effective and easier to manage for hybrid events.
How DAS Can Help with CART and RCC
At DAS, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality CART and RCC services through certified and experienced professionals. Whether you need onsite or remote services, our team follows the strictest ethical standards and guidelines, ensuring the utmost accuracy and confidentiality.
Ready to provide inclusive communication for your next event? Reach out to Deaf Access Solutions to learn more about how CART and RCC services can meet your needs, whether it’s a small in-person meeting or a large virtual conference. With DAS, you can trust that no one will miss out on the conversation.