Is Human Simultaneous Interpretation Expensive? Understanding Cost-Effective Simultaneous Interpretation
When planning a multilingual meeting or international event, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Is simultaneous interpretation expensive?”
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While professional interpretation services do represent an investment, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for, and how to ensure you’re getting cost-effective simultaneous interpretation that fits your event’s needs and budget.
At Interpretation Solutions, we help clients across the UK and Europe communicate effectively across languages—without overspending. Here’s what you need to know.
What Do You Pay for in Simultaneous Interpretation?
Simultaneous interpreters are highly trained professionals. Their fees reflect a combination of:
1. Training and Expertise
Interpreters often undergo years of study, including postgraduate qualifications, to master the linguistic, cognitive, and technical skills needed to interpret live speech accurately and fluently.
2. Ongoing Professional Development
Professional interpreters continually invest in continuing professional development (CPD) to stay updated on terminology, industry trends, and ethical standards. This ensures they bring current and reliable expertise to every event.
3. Preparation Time
Behind the scenes, interpreters spend significant time preparing—reviewing presentations, researching vocabulary, and familiarising themselves with the subject matter. This preparation is built into their fee and is essential for a high-quality experience.
Technical Costs and Equipment
For large, formal or multilingual events, interpretation often requires a full technical setup, including:
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Interpreter booths (soundproof and ISO-compliant),
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Technical staff for setup and support.
While this equipment ensures a smooth, professional experience, it’s not always necessary for smaller or more informal events.
How to Achieve Cost-Effective Simultaneous Interpretation
Here’s how to deliver effective interpretation while keeping your budget in check:
1. Use Tour Guide Systems for Smaller Events
Our tour guide interpretation systems are a practical, low-cost solution for mobile events, workshops, and site tours. These systems allow interpreters to speak directly to listeners via wireless headsets—no booth or AV team required.
2. Limit the Duration
If interpretation is only needed for specific parts of your event, you can book interpreters for a half-day or session rather than the full programme—this helps control costs.
3. Book Local Interpreters
Where possible, we assign local interpreters to minimise travel and accommodation expenses.
4. Use Remote or Hybrid Solutions
For some events, Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) platforms can be used. This reduces the need for on-site infrastructure, saving both time and money.
Why You Shouldn’t Cut Corners
Low-cost alternatives or relying on unqualified bilinguals may seem tempting, but poor interpretation can lead to:
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Miscommunication or misunderstandings,
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Disengaged or confused audiences,
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Damaged brand reputation,
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Legal or compliance risks.
True cost-effective simultaneous interpretation balances affordability with professional quality—and that’s exactly what we aim to provide.
Final Thoughts: Value, Flexibility, and Payment Options
While human simultaneous interpretation may seem costly at first glance, the value it delivers in clarity, professionalism, and audience engagement is well worth the investment. With the right approach and support, it’s possible to achieve cost-effective simultaneous interpretation tailored to your needs.
At Interpretation Solutions, we go one step further to support your budget. That’s why we partner with IwocaPay to offer flexible payment by instalments for our clients. This allows you to spread the cost of your interpretation services over manageable payments—ideal for businesses, public sector bodies, and organisations managing tight budgets.
Ready to plan your multilingual event?
Let’s talk. Whether you need a full-scale booth setup or a simple mobile solution, we’ll recommend the most cost-effective simultaneous interpretation option for your specific goals.
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and personalised quote.