In most situations, Deaf, hard of hearing, and Deaf-Blind people prefer on-site interpreting services. There are, however, situations when Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) services are needed and even preferred. These situations could arise when on-site interpreters cannot present themselves to the vicinity of the interpreting services in a reasonable amount of time or with little to no notice. Sometimes the cost of a live interpreter could present an undue hardship on the provider because of expensive travel costs, or other reasons, in obtaining an on-site interpreter. Even though CASL Interpreting contracts with interpreters who are bound to the ethics of complete confidentiality, some consumers would prefer VRI services instead of on-site services for reasons of personal privacy. Local interpreters tend to be members of the local sign language community, thereby making anonymity nearly impossible. There are rare instances when extra sensitive situations arise and consumers prefer the measure anonymity that VRI can provide.
Many professionals in different fields rely on VRI to communicate in many situations including one on one meetings with an employer and meetings regarding social services. For example, some medical professionals depend on video remote interpreting services to help them provide simple information and instructions to patients or other situations when the consumer is best being served with appropriate barrier free access.
VRI does not eliminate the need for on-site interpreting but can be used effectively in the appropriate situation. This in turn may save time and cost as long as the communication is effective and efficient. Instead of waiting for an interpreter to arrive at your business, medical facility, or educational facility, you can simply reach your video interpreter over the internet and start interfacing with the other party right away while providing quality care and services.