FAQs
WHAT IS ELECTRONIC NOTETAKING?
During Electronic Notetaking, an Electronic Notetaker will type a comprehensive summary* of what is being said, and this will be transmitted to the user's device or computer in real-time. This allows users to access spoken information almost simultaneously in settings such as lectures, seminars, meetings, conferences, and so on. Electronic Notetakers use specialist software, which allows them to differentiate between speakers, use abbreviations to increase typing speed and add in atmospheric and unspoken information. Users receive a record of notes taken via email afterwards.
* Electronic Notetakers will produce a highly comprehensive summary of what is said, but will not produce a word-for-word transcript. If you require a word-for-word account, a Speech-To-Text-Reporter (STTR) will be suitable for your needs.
DO I NEED AN ELECTRONIC NOTETAKER?
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may need communication support in the work-place, at conferences and events, or in community settings, such as at appointments or when attending leisure activities. Typically, support may take the form of sign language interpreting. If your first, preferred or only language is English, however, you may find that using an Electronic Notetaker is more suitable for your needs. You may also prefer to use an Electronic Notetaker alongside a sign language interpreter if you are attending an event, meeting or conference and would like to receive a comprehensive set of notes for your reference afterwards, allowing you to give your full attention to what is being said during the event.
WHAT KIND OF SETTINGS CAN I BOOK ELECTRONIC NOTETAKING FOR?
Natalie is able to provide Electronic Notetaking support during a range of events such as conferences, lectures, seminars, meetings and community events. Natalie is also available to provide support during appointments and in legal settings, but clients must arrange a second Electronic Notetaker to act as a co-worker if highly sensitive or confidential information is to be discussed and must inform Natalie of this when making a booking. This is to ensure accuracy and to protect all parties.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN LAPTOP OR DEVICE?
No, if you make a booking with Nat's Notes, Natalie will bring a second laptop that the user can use to read the notes in real time.
IS ONE ELECTRONIC NOTETAKER ENOUGH?
If your booking is for three hours or less, one Electronic Notetaker will usually be sufficient. If, however, your event is longer (i.e. an all-day conference) you will typically need to book a second Electronic Notetaker to act as a co-worker.
IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BE AWARE OF WHEN BOOKING AND WORKING WITH AN ELECTRONIC NOTETAKER?
Electronic Notetaking is very mentally intensive and tiring and Notetakers are at particular risk of suffering from RSI. Electronic Notetakers therefore require regular breaks (ideally every hour). Electronic Notetakers also need a chair and good-sized table at which to work, and a good view of speakers. It is also very helpful if clients can book well in advance of an event (i.e. at least two weeks before), although Natalie will always try to accommodate short notice bookings where possible. Please also give as much detail as possible when making a booking, and always include the event date, time, duration and names of a contact and the service user (if different). Where possible, please provide Natalie with details about the content of the event and advanced copies of any PowerPoints or hand-outs that will be used.
DO YOU HAVE A MINIMUM BOOKING DURATION?
The minimum duration for bookings within the Black Country and Birmingham is 2 hours. The minimum duration for bookings outside of the Black Country and Birmingham is 3 hours.
What is your availability?
Natalie's availability is currently limited to evenings and weekends.
HOW MUCH DO YOU CHARGE?
Natalie charges £35 per hour. Charges may also be incurred for reasonable expenses.
I REQUIRE SUPPORT OUTSIDE OF THE BLACK COUNTRY AND BIRMINGHAM. CAN YOU HELP?
Natalie is available to provide support in the Black Country and Birmingham. However, she is happy to consider bookings from outside areas which are near-by or easily commutable. Please note, travel charges may apply. Please get in touch to discuss your requirements.
WHAT IS YOUR PAYMENT POLICY?
Payment must be received at least five days before support takes place. If you have made a booking at short notice (i.e. within five days of the support taking place) payment must be received prior to support taking place. Support will be cancelled where payment has not been received prior to support taking place, unless alternative arrangements have been agreed in writing. Payment can be made via Paypal or bank transfer.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
If you need to cancel your booking, please give at least five-days (inclusive) notice via email. Refunds will not be given to clients who cancel with less than five days notice. A full refund will always be given if Nat's Notes cancels your booking.