Language access consultation
Your partner in communication compliance
A.I. is your partner in your communication compliance efforts. As experts knowledgeable about regulations that mandate access, we can assist you in making informed decisions when the obligation to provide access arises.
Consultation has been part of our work since Accommodating Ideas was founded in 1992 to provide Americans with Disabilities Act training and consultation.
What we help with
From identifying needs to communicating effectively
Identify needs
When a conversation will be long, complex or require specialized terminology, a qualified interpreter is required.
Understand obligations
An individual's right to communication is outlined in state and federal civil rights mandates.
Choose access options
Onsite, telephone and video interpreting, realtime captioning and translation, in sign language and 150+ spoken languages.
Communicate effectively
Speak directly to the person, allow more time and let people finish full thoughts and statements.
Questions
Common questions about language access
When is a qualified interpreter needed?
Conversational fluency in any language is vastly different from the process of professional interpreting. When the conversation is short and simple, using a family member or a pad and pencil to converse back and forth for people who are deaf may be acceptable. However, if the conversation will be long, complex or require specialized terminology, a qualified interpreter is required.
Why use a professional interpreter instead of someone who is fluent?
Because spoken communication takes place at a rate of 125 to 230 words per minute, professional interpreters are trained to deliver a smooth, accurate and impartial interpretation, while a person who is merely fluent in any language is not and therefore cannot.
How do we work with an interpreter?
Professional spoken language interpreters and sign language interpreters are neutral and follow a code of ethical behavior, which includes keeping all assignment related information confidential. Look directly at the person who is receiving the communications and speak directly to them. Allow more time for communication to flow back and forth.
What is the difference between interpreting and translation?
A translation is a written interpretation of a given document. Translation assignments are more complex than voice interpretation because they involve the accurate delivery of a message from one language to another, complete with proper grammar and any required linguistic characteristics.
What should we provide when requesting a sign language interpreter?
- Location of the assignment: address, building name, department or floor and room numbers
- Parking information and any special instructions for navigating the location
- The on-site contact person's name and phone number
- Dates and start and end times, and the approximate length of the assignment
- Type of assignment, for example a staff meeting, medical appointment, workshop or testing
Send a request or call 1-800-257-1783. For urgent requests, please call our 800 number.