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all insightsVRI Work with DSU: What Providers Need to Know
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is a critical part of how Deaf Services Unlimited (DSU) delivers timely, accessible communication across the country. Whether you’re new to VRI or looking to refine your setup and workflow, understanding the technical expectations and best practices helps ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved—interpreters, clients, and Deaf and hard of hearing consumers.
Below is a practical overview of what you need to succeed in VRI work with DSU.
Technology & Wi‑Fi Requirements
Reliable technology is the foundation of high-quality VRI. Because consumers depend on clear visual and audio access, even small disruptions can significantly impact communication.
Minimum expectations include:
- A desktop or laptop computer (tablets and phones are not recommended for professional VRI work)
- A high-quality webcam positioned at eye level
- A headset or external microphone that provides clear audio without echo
- Adequate lighting so facial expressions, fingerspelling, and signs are clearly visible
Equally important is your internet connection. A hardwired Ethernet connection is strongly preferred over Wi‑Fi whenever possible. If Wi‑Fi is used, it should be stable, private, and strong enough to support uninterrupted video streaming. Interpreters should test their speed regularly and avoid shared or public networks.
Commonly Used VRI Platforms
DSU VRI assignments commonly take place on mainstream video conferencing platforms used by our clients. Being comfortable navigating these platforms is essential.
The most frequently used platforms include:
- Zoom – Often used in healthcare, education, and corporate settings. Learn more about Zoom set up options here.
- Microsoft Teams – Common in government, healthcare systems, and large organizations. Learn more about Teams set up options here.
- Webex – Frequently used for corporate and medical environments.
Interpreters should keep these platforms updated, know how to adjust audio and video settings, and be familiar with joining meetings via direct links, calendar invites, or meeting IDs. Having accounts set up in advance (when applicable) helps reduce last‑minute issues.
Pinning and Spotlighting the Interpreter
Visual access is everything in VRI. Knowing how to ensure the interpreter remains visible on screen is a key skill.
- Pinning allows you to keep a specific video (such as yourself or the Deaf consumer) in view on your own screen.
- Spotlighting is typically controlled by the meeting host and ensures the interpreter’s video remains prominently displayed for all participants.
Interpreters should know how pinning works on each platform and be prepared to politely request spotlighting when appropriate. This helps maintain consistent access and reduces the risk of the interpreter being minimized or lost among multiple participants.
Caption Integration in VRI Settings
In many VRI assignments, interpreting services may be provided alongside live captioning (CART) or automated captions. Understanding how captions integrate into virtual platforms is an important part of supporting full communication access.
Interpreters should be aware that:
- Captions may appear as a live text stream at the bottom of the screen or in a separate caption window, depending on the platform and client setup.
- Some Deaf and hard of hearing participants rely on both ASL and captions for complete access, especially in technical, medical, or fast‑paced discussions.
When working in a caption‑integrated environment, best practices include:
- Avoiding visual overlap with caption windows by maintaining appropriate framing and spacing
- Being mindful of pacing to support caption accuracy when possible
- Coordinating respectfully with captioners when introductions or role clarification is needed
On platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Webex, interpreters should know where captions appear and how to adjust their own view to ensure captions remain visible to consumers. If caption access is not visible or functioning as expected, interpreters should alert the host or DSU contact promptly.
Supporting caption integration helps reinforce DSU’s commitment to layered access and ensures consumers receive communication in the format that best meets their needs.
Professional VRI Etiquette
Professional etiquette sets the tone for a successful VRI assignment and reflects both you and DSU.
A best practice expectation is to log on 10–15 minutes early to every VRI assignment. This allows time to:
- Test audio and video
- Confirm the meeting link works properly
- Resolve technical issues before consumers arrive
- Review any instructions or context shared by the client
Arriving early helps avoid delays, reduces stress, and demonstrates professionalism to both clients and consumers. Interpreters should also ensure their environment is quiet, neutral, and free from visual distractions.
Supporting Quality Access Through Preparation
VRI is more than just signing on camera—it’s about preparation, professionalism, and ensuring equitable access in a virtual space. By meeting DSU’s technical expectations, understanding commonly used platforms, and following VRI etiquette, interpreters play a vital role in delivering high-quality remote access every day.
DSU values interpreters who take VRI seriously and come prepared to provide consistent, reliable service—no matter where the assignment takes place.